Introduction: The anterior cruciate ligament plays a key role in knee joint stability, and its injury often results in instability and functional limitations. Many patients are treated surgically with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, the aim of which is to restore knee joint stability. Rehabilitation is often complicated by arthrogenic muscle inhibition, which reduces activation of the quadriceps femoris muscle. An important factor in recovery is the rate of torque development, as it influences functional movement more than maximal muscle strength and reduces the risk of reinjury. Purpose: The purpose of this diploma thesis was to review and analyze the findings of scientific literature on the effect of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction on the rate of torque development of the quadriceps femoris muscle. Methods: A literature search was conducted in the PubMed and CINAHL databases using the following search combinations of terms in English: (rate of torque development OR central activation ratio) AND (quadriceps function OR knee mechanics OR anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction). The review included research articles published between 2015 and 2022. Results: Five studies involving a total of 201 participants were included. The authors compared the limb following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with the contralateral non-injured limb, while one study also included a healthy control group. Outcome measures included the rate of torque development of the quadriceps femoris muscle, maximal isometric and isokinetic torque, central activation ratio, and biomechanical gait variables. Most studies reported a statistically significant reduction in the rate of torque development in the limb following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction compared with the non-injured limb. Reduced rate of torque development was also associated with altered gait and running biomechanics, as well as persistent neuromuscular asymmetries between limbs. Discussion and Conclusion: The rate of torque development represents a clinically important indicator of neuromuscular function following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and provides additional information beyond the assessment of maximal muscle strength alone. Including assessment of the rate of torque development and central activation in rehabilitation may enable a more individualized approach, more accurate evaluation of functional readiness, and return to physical activity. Further studies including healthy individuals and broader assessment criteria are needed to provide clearer findings and better understanding of the long-term impact of neuromuscular changes.
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