Biomechanics and Technology in ACLR Rehab: Enhancing Clinical Decisions
Presented by Pam Kikillus, Andrea Webster, and Laura Tietjen
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This course examines how biomechanics and emerging technologies can be integrated into ACL reconstruction (ACLR) rehabilitation to improve clinical decision-making and patient outcomes. Participants will explore current evidence related to ACL injury risk, return-to-sport outcomes, and reinjury rates, while learning how biomechanical analysis and neuromuscular control influence movement quality. The course emphasizes practical application of technology—including motion analysis tools and smartphone-based assessment apps—to objectively measure performance, guide exercise selection, and determine readiness for discharge or return to sport. Designed for rehabilitation professionals, this course provides a framework for using data-driven assessment and targeted interventions to enhance movement quality, reduce injury risk, and optimize long-term outcomes after ACLR.
Learning Objectives
- Distinguish risk factors for ACL injury, reinjury, and poor outcomes after ACLR
- Apply biomechanical terminology when evaluating motor performance and movement patterns
- Implement smartphone applications to clinically assess key identified biomechanical metrics
- Prioritize exercise selection based on deficient metrics and movement patterns identified with smartphone applications and clinical assessment
- Determine readiness for discharge or return to sport after ACLR
Meet your instructors
Pam Kikillus
Pam Kikillus received her entry-level physical therapy degree and a doctor of health science degree from the University of Indianapolis. She is a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist, a certified hand therapist, and a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists. Pam practices physical…
Andrea Webster
Andrea Webster received her doctor of physical therapy degree from the MGH Institute of Health Professions. She has experience practicing in outpatient orthopedics and pediatrics, and she is certified in neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT) for the pediatric client. She currently works in an outpatient pediatric setting,…
Laura Tietjen
Laura Tietjen graduated from the University of Southern California Department of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy. She is a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist and has extensive training with the North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy. Beginning with a strong background in outpatient physical…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Are We Providing Best-Practice Care?
This chapter reviews current ACL injury and reconstruction outcomes, including return-to-sport rates, reinjury risk, and posttraumatic arthritis, while highlighting gaps between published research and clinical practice.
2. Biomechanical Analysis in ACL Rehab
Learners are introduced to key biomechanical concepts and terminology and explore how movement analysis helps identify injury risk factors and movement strategies that influence ACL loading and control.
3. Clinical Alternative to the Gold Standard of Testing in a Biomechanics Lab
This chapter focuses on practical, clinic-friendly tools—such as smartphone applications and affordable technology—to objectively measure biomechanical metrics and monitor progress throughout rehabilitation.
4. Exercise Selection Based on Biomechanical Data From Smartphone Apps and Clinical Assessment
Participants learn how to use biomechanical findings and clinical assessment to prioritize and progress exercises that target specific movement deficits, improve neuromuscular control, and enhance performance.
5. Next Steps in Practice and Planning for Return to Sport
The final chapter integrates biomechanical data, strength testing, and psychological readiness to support treatment planning, interdisciplinary decision-making, and safe return-to-sport or discharge recommendations.
