To brace or not to brace after ACL reconstruction with Dr Christina Le
Oct 4, 2023
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Dr Christina Le, physiotherapist, discusses the use of bracing in ACL reconstruction patients and highlights recent research findings that show no difference in outcomes between using a brace and not using a brace. The podcast explores the ongoing debate on bracing procedures and the need for further studies. The highlights and limitations of different bracing options are also discussed, with the suggestion that bracing may not be necessary based on the evidence.
Early post-operative bracing after ACL reconstruction surgery may not provide any additional benefits compared to a brace-free approach.
The cost of custom ACL braces can be significant, and investing in exercise and rehabilitation may yield better outcomes than relying solely on bracing.
Deep dives
Bracing in ACL Reconstruction Patients
A recent paper reviewed by Christina Lee for the Physio Network explored the use of bracing in ACL reconstruction patients. The randomized control trial examined the effectiveness of bracing within the first six weeks post-surgery and found no difference compared to not using a brace. This supports previous evidence that questions the benefits of early post-operative bracing. The history of bracing in ACL reconstruction surgery dates back to the 1980s, but studies have shown that range of motion restrictions imposed by braces may hinder recovery progress. While there is good quality evidence supporting a brace-free approach, further research is needed to investigate the efficacy of cross bracing.
The Continuing Discussion on Bracing
Despite the evidence against early post-operative bracing, the topic continues to be discussed. Systematic reviews and consensus groups have consistently found no significant differences in long-term outcomes for braced versus non-braced patients. However, trials still focus on early bracing, despite mounting evidence suggesting weight-bearing and unrestricted range of motion may be more beneficial. It can be challenging to control variables in research studies, and limitations exist in every paper, but the overall evidence leans towards a brace-free approach in ACL reconstruction patients.
The Cost-Effectiveness of Bracing and Alternative Approaches
One of the key concerns surrounding bracing is the significant cost involved. Custom ACL braces can cost around $1,800 in Canada. However, the return on investment may not outweigh the benefits. Instead, investing in a gym membership and focusing on exercise and rehabilitation can be more effective in returning to sports, reducing the risk of reoccurrence, and improving overall outcomes. Allocating funds towards better facilities and equipment in the healthcare system can also provide more value to patients. Bracing may have a time and place, but it should not be seen as a universal solution for all ACL reconstruction patients.
In this episode with Dr Christina Le, we discuss her Research Review of a recent article which looked at a bracing protocol vs going brace-free for the first 6 weeks post ACL reconstruction with hamstring autograft. We discuss the strengths and limitations of the paper as well as what we as clinicians should take away from the paper and use in our own clinical practice.
Dr Christina Le is a physiotherapist and completed her PhD in 2022 at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada. As a clinician, she primarily treats individuals with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Having sustained a previous ACL injury herself, she has developed an interest in understanding health-related quality of life (HRQOL) following a sport-related knee injury in youth.
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Our host is @James_Armstrong_Physio.
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