Context: ACL injury may cause a lack of knee joint proprioception and motor control due to knee joint instability. ACL reconstruction restores knee joint stability, yet dynamic postural control may still be affected while performing dynamic tasks. Objective: To examine the effects of ACL injury and reconstruction on dynamic postural control using the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) and single leg hop (SLH). Participant: One Division I female athlete. Main Outcome Measure: The athlete`s dynamic postural control, both pre- and postreconstruction, was compared with preinjury data using the method of minimal detectable change using reach distances obtained from the SEBT and hop distances from the SLH. Results: ACL injury and reconstruction affected the anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral reach distances of the SEBT. Despite restoration of joint stability, anterior reach distance in the SEBT did not return to preinjury levels 27 months after ACL reconstruction. SLH distances decreased following injury but returned to preinjury levels 27 months after ACL reconstruction. Conclusion: Dynamic postural control and performance during the SEBT and SLH were affected by ACL injury and for extended periods of time after ACL reconstruction. Quadriceps inhibition and muscle strength of the involved limb may affect dynamic postural control both after ACL injury and reconstruction while performing the SEBT. Compensatory mechanisms at the hip and ankle may aid in performance of the SLH after reconstruction. Using baseline measurements, where possible, may help researchers better understand the effects of ACL injury and reconstruction on dynamic postural control.
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