Dynamic Stability Impairment in Adults With Complete Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture

This study investigated the impact of complete anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture on the dynamic stability of adults during the initiation phase of gait. The sample consisted of 32 adults, divided into two groups: G1, with 16 adults who presented a complete ACL rupture, and G2, with 16 physically active adults without injuries. Displacements of the Center of Pressure (CoP) in the anteroposterior (CoP_AP) and mediolateral (CoP_ML) directions were evaluated across the anticipatory, first step execution, and second step execution phases. The results revealed that the ACL-injured group showed significantly greater CoP_AP and CoP_ML displacements during the anticipatory and first step execution phases, indicating compensatory strategies to maintain dynamic balance. In the second step execution phase, no significant differences were observed between the groups, suggesting a progressive stabilization of the gait pattern. It was concluded that adults with ACL injuries rely on anticipatory postural adjustments and muscular compensations to control balance during gait initiation. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating dynamic balance training, strengthening, and proprioception into rehabilitation programs to minimize compensatory overload and promote a more efficient and safer gait.