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J Knee Surg
DOI: 10.1055/a-2741-1637
Original Article

Effect of Progressive Balance Training on Lower Limb Recovery after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction plus Meniscus Repair: A Prospective Study

Authors

  • Shan Zheng

    1   Sports Medicine Center, Sichuan University, West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
    2   Department of Orthopedics and Orthopedic Research Institute, Sichuan University, West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China

  • Pengcheng Li 

    1   Sports Medicine Center, Sichuan University, West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
    2   Department of Orthopedics and Orthopedic Research Institute, Sichuan University, West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China

Funding Information None.
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Abstract

We aimed to evaluate the effect of progressive balance training on lower limb recovery following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction plus meniscus repair. A total of 106 patients undergoing ACL reconstruction plus meniscal repair between March 2022 and March 2024 were recruited and assigned into a control group (n = 53, non-individualized rehabilitation training) and a study group (n = 53, progressive balance training) using a random number table. The indicators related to knee joint proprioception, knee joint function, and lower limb motor function were compared before intervention and after 12 weeks of intervention. After 12 weeks of intervention, the active range of motion and Lysholm scores of the knee joint rose in both groups compared with those before intervention, and they were higher in the study group (p < 0.05). After 8 and 12 weeks of intervention, the anterior, posterolateral, and posteromedial reach distances were longer in the study group than in the control group (p < 0.05). After 12 weeks of intervention, the Fugl-Meyer assessment of lower extremity scores, Holden walking function scores, and 10-m walk test speed all increased in both groups compared with those before intervention, especially in the study group (p < 0.05). Progressive balance training leads to clinically meaningful improvements in knee joint proprioception and lower limb balance function in patients undergoing ACL reconstruction plus meniscal repair. The observed increase in Lysholm scores exceeds the established minimal clinically important difference threshold of 25 points, indicating significant functional gains. The improvements in Y-balance test performance suggest a reduced risk of injury.

Keywords

anterior cruciate ligament - balance - lower limb - meniscus - motor function

Ethical Approval

This study was approved by the ethics committee of West China Hospital, Sichuan University (approval no. SU202203004).


Informed Consent

Each subject enrolled in the study signed an informed consent.




Publication History

Received: 03 June 2025

Accepted: 06 November 2025

Article published online:
09 December 2025

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