Correlation of Y Balance with Clinical Scores and Functional Tests after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Young and Middle-Aged Patients

BACKGROUND: Criteria for return to sports (RTS) following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction have been extensively studied. But there is no consensus among investigators regarding which factors are most important in determining a safe RTS. METHODS: Sixty-one patients who underwent ACL reconstruction were included. Subjective knee scoring systems (International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC] score and Lysholm score), functional performance tests (carioca test and single-leg hop for distance [SLHD] test), and isokinetic knee strength test were used for assessment and analyzed for association with the limb symmetry index (LSI) of the Y-balance test for lower quarter (YBT-LQ). RESULTS: The LSI of the YBT-LQ was significantly correlated with Lysholm score, IKDC score, Carioca, LSI for the SLHD, and extensor strength deficit at 6 months after ACL reconstruction. At 12 months, Lysholm score, IKDC score, LSI for the SLHD, and extensor strength deficit were significantly correlated with the LSI of the YBT-LQ. CONCLUSIONS: The YBT-LQ test could be used conveniently as an additional tool to assess the patient’s functional performance results after ACL reconstruction in outpatient clinics.