Finding New Strength After ACL Reconstruction
Research By: Christy Zwolski, PT, DPT, PhD
Post Date: September 2, 2024 | Publish Date: Sept. 2, 2024
Sports Medicine | Top Scientific Achievement
A new qualitative study led by Christin Zwolski, DPT, PhD, from the Divisions of Sports Medicine and Patient Services Research at Cincinnati Children’s, explores how adolescent athletes navigate physical activity years after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).
Through in-depth interviews conducted at an average of six years post-surgery, the researchers identified three themes that shape young athletes’ ongoing activity: navigation of barriers, movement motives, and movement mindset. Findings were published in September 2024 in the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy.
Athletes described adapting to lingering physical limitations, fear of reinjury, and life changes that challenged their exercise routines. Despite these barriers, many demonstrated an “ingrained desire to move” motivated by internal rewards, such as mental well-being and self-improvement, as well as by family and social networks that encouraged activity. Importantly, the study found that how adolescents perceive their recovery—and their identity as athletes—can influence their physical activity patterns into adulthood.
“The experience of ACL reconstruction doesn’t end with rehab—it changes how young people think about movement,” says Mark Paterno, PhD, co-author and Senior Clinical Director of the Division of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy at Cincinnati Children’s. “Understanding those perceptions helps us design better long-term support that keeps patients active for life.”
The findings highlight the importance of addressing psychological, social, and environmental influences—not just physical rehabilitation—after ACLR. Researchers recommend that care teams establish stronger connections between clinical recovery and lifelong wellness, incorporating peer and family engagement, as well as accessible opportunities for physical activity.
Next, the team plans to develop interventions that support mental resilience and promote active lifestyles in the years following surgery. By integrating these insights into sports medicine and rehabilitation, Cincinnati Children’s continues to advance holistic recovery approaches for young athletes.
About the study
Cincinnati Children’s other co-authors include Staci Thomas, PhD. Collaborating institutions include The Ohio State University and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
Funding from this study was provided by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research.
Explore the 2025 Research Annual Report
Don’t Miss a Post:
- Subscribe to the Research Horizons Newsletter
- Follow Cincinnati Children’s Research Foundation on Bluesky, X and LinkedIn
| Original title: | A Qualitative Study of Factors Perceived to Influence Physical Activity among Young Athletes after ACL Reconstruction |
| Published in: | International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy |
| Publish date: | Sept. 2, 2024 |
Latest Posts
About this blog
The Research Horizons blog features news and insights about the latest discoveries and innovations developed by the scientists of Cincinnati Children's. This blog does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Email researchnews@cchmc.org with questions or ideas.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter