Role of prevent injury and enhance performance program in improving dynamic knee alignment and neuromuscular control following acl rehabilitation in football players: A narrative review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29070/91nqs380Keywords:
PEP programme, knee alignment, neuromuscular control, football playersAbstract
Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is a common concern among football players. Neuromuscular deficits, poor landing mechanics, and abnormal dynamic knee alignment may contribute to the risk of ACL injury and re-injury. The Prevent Injury and Enhance Performance (PEP) program incorporates stretching, strengthening, plyometric, and agility exercises aimed at improving neuromuscular control and movement quality.
Objective: To review the role of the PEP program in improving dynamic knee alignment and neuromuscular control following ACL rehabilitation in football players.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar. Studies published in English between 2015 and 2026 were considered. Studies involving football players following ACL injury or reconstruction and evaluating the PEP program or related neuromuscular and proprioceptive training interventions were included. Outcomes included dynamic knee alignment, neuromuscular control, proprioception, landing mechanics, postural stability, functional performance, and ACL re-injury prevention.
Results: Twelve relevant studies were identified. Overall, the evidence suggested that PEP and related neuromuscular training interventions may improve landing mechanics, postural stability, neuromuscular control, hip and knee biomechanics, and dynamic knee valgus in football players. Studies involving athletes following ACL reconstruction also reported improvements in postural control and landing-related outcomes. However, direct evidence regarding the effect of PEP on dynamic knee alignment following ACL rehabilitation remains limited.
Conclusion: The PEP program may be a useful adjunct to ACL rehabilitation for improving neuromuscular control, landing mechanics, and dynamic knee stability in football players. However, further high-quality studies involving larger post-ACL reconstruction populations, standardized PEP protocols, direct assessment of dynamic knee alignment, and longer follow-up are needed to determine its effectiveness in reducing ACL re-injury and supporting a safe return to football.
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