Abstract Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries with associated medial meniscus involvement are frequent knee pathologies that can markedly affect joint stability, mobility, and functional performance. This case report describes the rehabilitation of a 26-year-old female who sustained a right knee injury after a fall. She presented with ongoing pain, swelling, a sense of instability, and difficulty with weight-bearing activities. Clinical evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging revealed mild knee joint effusion, grade 1 signal changes in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus, and a strain or partial tear of the ACL. The rehabilitation program was designed to progressively address pain control, range of motion (ROM) restoration, muscle strengthening, proprioceptive training, and gait reeducation. At baseline, the patient demonstrated notable functional impairments, including diminished quadriceps and hamstring strength, impaired proprioception, and an antalgic gait pattern. Following 4 weeks of structured intervention, incorporating isometric exercises, balance training, and controlled weight-bearing activities, significant improvements were observed. These included reduced pain, enhanced muscle activation, increased ROM, and improved knee stability. Post-rehabilitation gait analysis showed a more symmetrical walking pattern, improved weight-bearing tolerance, and increased step length. This case report highlights the advantages of a structured, phase-based rehabilitation plan in supporting functional recovery after a mild ACL injury with meniscal involvement. The results align with current research supporting early, progressive rehabilitation and strengthening to improve knee function and promote healing.
Fatma et al. (Thu,) studied this question.