Summary

This study evaluated the effects of medi Rehab® one compression stockings on recovery after ACL reconstruction in 86 patients soccer players. Results showed significant pain reduction at 2 and 4 weeks and fewer hematomas at week 2 in the compression group. No significant differences were found in fluid accumulation or thigh circumference.

Abstract

Introduction

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a common surgical procedure among athletes to restore knee stability. Postoperative management plays a critical role in recovery, with various interventions aimed at reducing pain, inflammation, and improving functional outcomes. This study investigates the impact of using compression stockings medi Rehab® one compared to standard postoperative care without stockings on pain, swelling, and functional recovery in patients undergoing ACL reconstruction.

Objective

To compare clinical and functional outcomes between patients using compression stockings after ACL reconstruction and those receiving standard postoperative care without stockings.

Material And Methods

A total of 86 patients soccer players who underwent ACL reconstruction at the Mutualidad de Futbolistas Españoles - Delegación Catalana were included in this study. Patients were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n = 43), who used compression stockings postoperatively, or the control group (n = 43), who did not use stockings. The variables evaluated included pain intensity measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), presence of hematoma, fluid accumulation, knee flexion range, and thigh and calf circumferences.

Results

The group with compression stockings demonstrated significantly greater pain reduction at 2 weeks and 4 weeks postoperatively (p < 0.05). A significant difference was observed in the incidence of hematomas at week 2, favoring the group with compression stockings. No significant differences were found in fluid accumulation between the groups, although there was a non-significant trend towards better outcomes in the compression group. Knee flexion degrees did not differ significantly between groups, except at month 1, where the compression group showed slightly better knee flexion, although this difference may not be clinically significant. There were no statistically significant differences in thigh circumferences between groups.

Conclusion

The use of compression stockings medi Rehab® one post-ACL reconstruction appears to offer benefits in pain reduction and possibly in reducing hematoma formation without significantly affecting fluid accumulation or knee flexion. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to determine the clinical relevance of improved calf circumference.