Community-Based Self-Paced Exercises Improve Femoral Muscular Torque Ratios After ACL Reconstruction: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Restoration of muscular balance after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is essential for knee stability, functional recovery, and injury prevention. Community-based self-paced rehabilitation may provide a practical alternative for patients unable to attend structured rehabilitation programs.

Case Presentation: A 24-year-old male, 20 weeks post-ACLR, was unable to participate in intensive institution-based rehabilitation because of preparation for competitive job examinations. A 12-week community-based self-paced exercise program was prescribed with periodic physiotherapy review.

Intervention: The program incorporated strengthening, functional training, endurance exercises, flexibility training, and agility drills performed independently at home, a local gymnasium, and community environments. Follow-up was conducted through telephone consultations and monthly outpatient reviews.

Outcomes: Isokinetic assessment demonstrated improvement in the hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio (0.608 to 0.660; +8.5%) and quadriceps-to-quadriceps ratio (0.844 to 0.922; +9.2%).

Conclusion: Community-based self-paced rehabilitation demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements in femoral muscular torque ratios and may represent a practical patient-centered alternative in selected individuals following ACLR.