Effects of Core Exercises on Balance in People With and Without ACL Surgery

Biruni University30 enrolled

Overview

The main purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare the effects of an 8-week core stabilization exercise program on balance, trunk muscle endurance, and lower body strength. The study includes two groups of participants: 15 individuals who have had Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery and 15 healthy individuals. Both groups will perform the same core stabilization exercises for 8 weeks, twice a week, under the supervision of a physiotherapist. The goal is to determine if this exercise program improves balance and core strength in people who have had ACL surgery and to compare these results with those of healthy individuals performing the same exercises.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

NON_RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

NONE

Enrollment

Conditions

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation

Interventions

Participants receive a supervised core stabilization exercise program for a duration of 8 weeks. Sessions are conducted twice per week by a physiotherapist. The program includes a set of standardized exercises such as the Hundreds, clam exercise, plank, side plank, dead bug exercise, curl-ups, and bridging.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 18 YearsMax age: 65 YearsHealthy volunteers:

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria * Aged between 18 and 65 years. * Agreement to participate regularly in the 8-week exercise program. * No contraindications to physical activity, as assessed by a medical professional. * ACLR group: history of unilateral ACL reconstruction within the past five years. * Control group: no known history of lower extremity injury or surgery. Exclusion Criteria * Any musculoskeletal or neurological condition affecting balance or core stabilization. * Participation in a structured core stabilization exercise program within the previous six months. * Any acute injury or systemic disease that may interfere with study participation.

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Change in Dynamic Balance as Measured by the Y-Balance Test

The Y-Balance Test (YBT) is used to assess dynamic postural control. Participants stand on one leg at the center of a grid and reach with the other leg as far as possible in three directions: anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral. The maximum reach distance in each direction is recorded in centimeters. A higher score indicates better dynamic balance.

Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks

Change in Trunk Muscle Endurance as Measured by the McGill Core Endurance Tests

Trunk muscle endurance is assessed using the McGill Core Endurance Test battery, which consists of four tests: a trunk flexor endurance test, a trunk extensor endurance test (Sorenson test), and right and left lateral trunk muscle endurance tests (side bridge). The time in seconds that a participant can hold each specific position without losing the correct form is recorded. A longer time indicates greater endurance.