Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
Department of Sport Science Education, Farhangian University, Tehran, Iran, P.O. Box 889-14665
2
MSc Student, Department of Sports Biomechanics, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Ardabil, Iran
3
PhD Candidate, Department of Sports Biomechanics, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Ardabil, Iran
10.22098/jast.2025.18307.1436
Abstract
Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is among the most common lower-limb injuries, often causing persistent alterations in biomechanics and increasing the risk of early-onset osteoarthritis. Biomechanical tools such as foot-scan and force plate systems provide valuable insights by accurately measuring plantar pressure distribution, center of pressure trajectories, and ground reaction forces. This systematic review aimed to examine the role of these devices in predicting risk factors and assessing biomechanical changes in ACL-injured and reconstructed patients. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across international databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) and national databases (SID, Magiran, Noormags) for studies published from January 2000 to January 2025, ensuring coverage of all relevant literature in this period. After screening according to eligibility criteria and quality assessment with the McMaster tool, 11 studies were included. Given the heterogeneity of study designs and outcomes, a narrative synthesis was applied. Results: The reviewed studies showed that ACL patients, even after rehabilitation, exhibited persistent abnormalities in plantar pressure patterns, center of pressure trajectories, and ground reaction forces. These deficits were more pronounced in dynamic tasks such as jumping and running. Neuromuscular training interventions improved some loading patterns and reduced risk factors, though biomechanical assessments still revealed residual deficits. Conclusions: Foot-scan and force plate devices are sensitive indicators for identifying biomechanical abnormalities and predicting secondary injuries in ACL patients. Their integration into multidimensional rehabilitation programs, such as return-to-sport screening, prescription of orthoses, or targeted neuromuscular training, may enhance clinical decision-making, facilitate safer return to sports, and help prevent early-onset osteoarthritis. However, small sample sizes and methodological heterogeneity among included studies represent limitations that should be considered when interpreting findings.
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