An Investigation of Sex-Based Differences in Physical and Psychological Recovery, and Return to Sport, Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

INTRODUCTION 0.05), though females reported significantly lower ACL-RSI (p=0.002) and IKDC (p=0.007) scores. While no sex-based differences were observed in hop test LSIs, males demonstrated significantly higher mean LSIs for PKET at 6 (p=0.037) and 24 (0.047) months, and PKFT at 6 (p=0.007) and 12 (p=0.002) months. At 24-months post-surgery, a significantly greater (p=0.030) percentage of male patients had returned to pivoting sports. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the disparity between sexes in physical and psychological recovery, as well as RTS status, in community-level patients undergoing ACLR. The development and implementation of enhanced post-operative patient-centered care may be warranted tailored to sex, encompassing rehabilitation, education, and counseling after ACLR to promote increased engagement in rehabilitation.