Using motion capture analysis for assessing locomotion after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Abstract

An anterior cruciate ligament tear is one of the most common injuries to the capsular ligament apparatus of the knee necessitating operative treatment. Postoperatively, patients with anterior cruciate ligament injuries develop a pathologic gait pattern. Today, innovative diagnostic and rehabilitation methods for patients with gait disturbances associated with such injuries are in high demand. Below, we present a case of using 3D motion capture analysis for the personalized assessment of gait function in a patient with the reconstructed anterior cruciate ligament two months after surgery. The analysis revealed that the patient had a slower, shorter, wider step with longer step intervals than the healthy subject; the flexion and extension amplitude in the large joints of the operated leg was smaller than in the healthy contralateral leg. Motion capture analysis can be used to assess the postoperative dynamics in patients with anterior cruciate ligament tears.