Comparison of early outcomes between video-supported telerehabilitation and traditional exercise program following anterior cruciate ligament surgery

This prospective, randomized, controlled study aimed to determine the extent of change in early outcomes between telerehabilitation and traditional rehabilitation programs when patient compliance is optimized following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Twenty-four patients presenting to our clinic for isolated ACL reconstruction without previous surgery on the affected extremity were included in the study. Participants were divided into traditional and telerehabilitation groups using matched randomization. Both groups performed home exercises daily for 4 weeks, constituting the intervention period. The same rehabilitation program was applied to both groups over the 4-week period. Patients in the telerehabilitation group were given written and illustrated rehabilitation programs and access to a standard video demonstration via the internet, while the traditional group received the rehabilitation program in written and illustrated form with verbal explanation. Tests were administered at three different times: pre-surgery to post-surgery day 2 (Pre-test), post-surgery week 2 (Mid-test), and post-surgery week 4 (Post-test). Exercise program was provided after measurements at postoperative day 1 and postoperative week 2 (mid-test). Significant differences were observed in ACL-QOL, TEGNER, Satisfaction survey scores, active flexion and extension ROM measurements, calf circumference values at 15 cm, gait parameters, hamstring mean torque values, and proprioception at 15° (p <0.05), while no significant differences were found in TAMPA and LYSHOLM survey scores, passive flexion ROM measurements, thigh circumference values, quadriceps strength values, hamstring power values, balance, and proprioception at 45°-75° (p>0.05) Telerehabilitation, which has previously been reported to have positive effects on the musculoskeletal system, was found to lead to favorable developments in early outcomes following ACL surgery. Thus, our study demonstrates that telerehabilitation may contribute to early rehabilitation in exceptional circumstances such as COVID-19, where in-person clinical rehabilitation or hospital access is limited or unavailable.