Innovative Ideas Register

"The Crucial Step"

Development of the Initiative

The innovation is a rehabilitation programme for any person having undergone reconstructive surgery of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). It is composed of three elements:

• a series of specific exercises that allow the knee joint to be rehabilitated without exposing the new graft to elongation forces (stretching)
• an exercise database that allows standardisation of the exercise prescription
• the gym environment, which provides specialist equipment (partnership).

The programme is based on recovery times of the graft used to reconstruct the ACL. The programme directs the client as to which exercises are appropriate for graft recovery time. The programme begins two weeks post-operative and can continue up to six months post-operative depending on the surgery and the client’s needs and skill level. The database automatically calculates days and weeks since operation. A printed exercise sheet provides a simple visual aid for the client. It includes a picture and descriptor of the required exercise with exercise variables (sets, resistance, tempo, repetitions, rest). The programme is designed so that the client, once competent at the exercises, can self-manage until the next review (every two weeks). The database also includes a correspondence section allowing the client’s progress to be reported quickly and efficiently to the surgeon.

Implementing the programme will ensure a better outcome from the injury and so prevent any significant on-going disability. A poor outcome from surgery without rehabilitation has considerable cost to both the individual in terms of quality of life, and to ACC and society.

Clients complete a knee function questionnaire prior to undertaking the rehabilitation programme and upon completion.

Results

The results show significant improvement in clients’ knee function as a result of post-operative rehabilitation.

Primary Contact

Mark Cartman
ProActive Rehab Ltd
PO Box 6074
Marion Square
WELLINGTON

email: Mark.Cartman@proactiverehab.co.nz