Treating ACL Injury Associated Neuroplasticity: A Neurocognitive-Motor Rehabilitation Case Study

This clinical case study explores the effect of a personalized neurocognitive-motor rehabilitation program in a patient with multiple anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. These injuries are known for their high recurrence rate and significant impact on functional capacity and overall quality of life. The integration of neurocognitive elements into rehabilitation could improve outcomes by addressing the neural adaptations associated with the injury.

Results

A 24-year-old male patient with recurrent ACL injuries presented with persistent instability, perceived as the sensation that the knee "gives way," despite traditional rehabilitation.

A key aspect was the use of computerized cognitive tests to guide neurocognitive exercises. An advanced rehabilitation program incorporating motor learning principles and neurocognitive progressions was introduced. Functional performance in single-leg triple hop tests, with and without dual-task, was considered the primary outcome.

The patient showed improvements in neurocognitive hop tests, with a dual-task cost improvement of 9.3% on the injured limb and 3.5% on the healthy limb. The Limb Symmetry Index remained above 90%.