Effects of early side-alternating whole-body vibration training on neuromuscular control and function after ACL reconstruction

Objective This study aims to evaluate the rehabilitation efficacy of side-alternating whole-body vibration training (SAV-WBVT) combined with conventional rehabilitation training for male patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Methods Between January 2024 and March 2025, thirty-four male patients (0–4 weeks post-ACLR) were initially recruited and randomly allocated to a control group ( n = 17) or a whole-body vibration training (WBVT) group ( n = 17). During the 8-week trial, 6 patients dropped out, leaving 14 patients per group for the final analysis. Both groups received conventional rehabilitation training, while the WBVT group concurrently received SAV-WBVT. Intra- and inter-group comparisons were evaluated pre-intervention and post-8-week intervention using two-way repeated measures ANOVA. Results All indicators significantly improved over time in both groups. Specifically, compared to the control group, the WBVT group demonstrated significantly superior outcomes at the post-8-week intervention assessment in knee extensor and flexor peak torque, joint position sense (90°–60°, 90°–30°), static balance (eyes open and closed), and Lysholm Knee Scores. However, there was no significant between-group difference in joint kinesthesia improvement. Conclusions Early rehabilitation after ACLR has a significant time effect, and the 8-week SAV-WBVT combined with conventional rehabilitation program starting at 5 weeks after surgery is superior to conventional rehabilitation training alone in improving muscle strength, joint position sense, static balance, and patients' subjective functional perception. It is recommended to include it in the early rehabilitation program after ACLR. Clinical Trial Registration https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=215786 , ChiCTR2400079359

Anterior cruciate ligament · Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction · Balance (ability) · Osteoarthritis · Randomized controlled trial · Whole body vibration · Balance, Gait, and Falls Prevention · Effects of Vibration on Health · Musculoskeletal pain and rehabilitation · Rehabilitation