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PEOPLE@HES-SO – Annuaire et Répertoire des compétences
PEOPLE@HES-SO – Annuaire et Répertoire des compétences

PEOPLE@HES-SO
Annuaire et Répertoire des compétences

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Forelli Florian

Forelli Florian

Professeur-e HES assistant

Compétences principales

Recherche clinique

Enseignement supérieur

musculoskeletal physiotherapy

Biomécanique du sport

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  • Recherche

  • Publications

Contrat principal

Professeur-e HES assistant

Téléphone: +41 32 930 16 54

Haute Ecole Arc - Santé
Rue de la Jeunesse 1, 2800 Delémont 2, CH
DSAN
BSc HES-SO en Physiothérapie - Haute Ecole Arc - Santé

En cours

AMIRACL

Rôle: Collaborateur/trice

Description du projet :

Contexte. Après reconstruction du ligament croisé antérieur (LCA), l’inhibition arthrogène du quadriceps retarde la récupération et accroît le risque de ré-lésion. Les approches précoces de blood-flow restriction (BFR) et de biofeedback par électromyographie de surface (sEMG) pourraient améliorer l’activation et la force musculaires, mais leur efficacité comparative et combinée reste peu documentée en essai multicentrique.

Objectif principal. Comparer, à 3 et 6 mois postopératoires, l’activation (sEMG) et la force isométrique du quadriceps entre quatre groupes : rééducation standard, standard + BFR, standard + sEMG biofeedback, et combinaison BFR + sEMG.

Design et méthodes. Essai randomisé contrôlé, multicentrique, à 4 bras parallèles, avec randomisation stratifiée par centre et évaluateurs d’issue en aveugle. Les interventions débutent à 2 semaines post-opératoires pour 6 semaines (3 séances/semaine) ; le groupe BFR utilise un système auto-régulé (phase anti-atrophie puis hypertrophie), le groupe sEMG reçoit un entraînement d’activation avec retours visuel/sonore en temps réel ; le groupe combiné reçoit les deux. Les mesures incluent sEMG standardisé et dynamométrie isométrique.

Population. Adultes 18–35 ans, première reconstruction du LCA, Tegner ≥ 6, Marx ≥ 12, IMC < 35. Principales exclusions : révision, réparation ligamentaire associée, affections neuro-musculo-squelettiques systémiques, contre-indications au BFR/sEMG.

Critères de jugement. Primaires : activité électromyographique quadriceps et force isométrique (3 et 6 mois). Secondaires : ACL-RSI et IKDC (3/6 mois), taux de récidive à 2 ans (télé-suivi), KOOS et Lysholm à 5 ans.

Taille d’échantillon et analyse. N = 200 (50/groupe), calculé pour détecter une différence minimale cliniquement pertinente de 10 % (SD = 15 %) sur l’activation sEMG, α = 0,05, puissance = 80 % (ANOVA), avec majoration pour attrition (10–15 %). Analyses en intention de traiter via modèles mixtes/répétés ; imputations multiples pour données manquantes ; sous-analyses par sexe. Logiciels : R/SPSS.

Calendrier. Inclusion prévue 01/2026–01/2028 ; suivis à 3 et 6 mois, 2 ans (récidive) et 5 ans (qualité de vie). Fin d’étude (LPLV) : 02/2031.

Aspects réglementaires/éthiques. Essai « Other Clinical Trial » (ClinO, chap. 4), catégorie de risque A (minimal), interventions non invasives et encadrées ; conduite conforme Déclaration d’Helsinki, ICH-GCP et droit suisse ; enregistrements HumRes/ClinicalTrials.gov prévus.

Retombées attendues. L’étude pourrait éclairer les lignes directrices de rééducation post-LCA en objectivant l’intérêt du BFR et/ou du sEMG précoces sur la récupération neuromusculaire, le retour au sport et la réduction des récidives.

Equipe de recherche au sein de la HES-SO: Forelli Florian

Statut: En cours

2025

Pourquoi prévenir les blessures en sport
Article scientifique ArODES

Florian Forelli, Maurice Douryang, Pascal Edouard

Kinésithérapie, la revue,  2025-25, 57-58

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Résumé:

Dans le monde du sport, la blessure fait partie des plus grands obstacles à la réussite. Pour les athlètes, éviter une blessure grave signifie préserver leur carrière et leur potentiel. Une blessure peut briser un rêve en mettant prématurément fin à une carrière prometteuse. De plus, éviter une blessure grave permet aussi de préserver le corps à moyen et long termes.

Is Deceleration the Key Element in Vertical Jump Performance to Return to Sport After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Hamstring Graft? A Preliminary Study
Article scientifique ArODES

Florian Forelli, Ayrton Moiroux--Sahraoui, Branis Nekhouf, Ismail Bouzekraoui Alaoui, Amaury Vanderbrouck, Pascal Duffiet, Louis Ratte, Maciej Bialy, Andreas Bjerregaard, Jean Mazeas, Maurice Douryang, Alexandre Rambaud

International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy,  2025-20, 9, 1321-1329

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Résumé:

Background/Purpose: Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) often leads to persistent neuromuscular deficits, complicating return-to-sport decisions. Reliable functional assessments are needed to guide RTS after ACLR. The main objective was to examine countermovement jump (CMJ) measures to identify which parameters can best distinguish between ACLR and control participants. The secondary objective was to determine whether performance alterations between operated and non-operated limb exist during CMJ after ACLR. Design: Non-randomized, single blinded, cross-sectional study Methods: Limb symmetry index (LSI) was calculated for vertical ground reaction force (vGRF), maximal power (MP), and eccentric rate of force development (RFDe) during countermovement jumps (CMJ) performed on force plates by an ACLR group (n=64) and a control group (n=47). First analysis compared LSI vGRF, LSI MP and LSI RFDe between groups. Secondary analysis compared vGRF, MP and RFDe between the operated/non-operated limb in the ACLR group and dominant/non-dominant limb in the control group. Between-group comparisons were made using Mann-Whitney tests due to non-normal data distribution. Effect sizes were calculated to assess the magnitude of differences. Results: Participants included 64 ACLR patients (mean age 26.5 ± 5.0 years; 33 females) and 47 controls (mean age 23.6 ± 2.1 years; 24 females). CMJ measures in the ACLR group were significantly reduced for LSI vGRF (p < 0.001), LSI MP (p < 0.001) and LSI RFDe (p < 0.001). The ACLR group exhibited significant differences between both limbs in terms of vGRF (p < 0.001), MP ( p < 0.001), and RFDe (p < 0.01). No significant limb differences were found in the control group. Conclusion: Measures of deceleration from the CMJ are altered after ACLR and should be considered throughout rehabilitation.

Evaluation of eccentric and concentric force during vertical jump after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a comparative study
Article scientifique ArODES

Florian Forelli, Ayrton Moiroux—Sahraoui, Jean Mazeas, William Ly, Maciej Bialy, Maurice Douryang, Timothy E Hewett, Benoit Pairot De Fontenay

BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation,  2025, 17, 259

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Résumé:

Background Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R) significantly affects lower limb biomechanics, particularly during dynamic movements like jumping. The countermovement jump (CMJ) is a commonly used test to evaluate force production and asymmetry in post-ACL-R individuals. This study aimed to compare eccentric and concentric forces during the CMJ between ACL-R patients and healthy controls. Methods This retrospective study included 56 ACL-R patients and 47 recreational athletes. All participants performed CMJs on a dual force plate to measure eccentric mean force (ECC), Concentric mean force (CON), and limb symmetry index (LSI). A mixed ANOVA was performed to compare ECC LSI and CON LSI between the ACL-R and control groups. Results CMJ height was significantly lower in the ACL-R group compared to the control group (-25.4%, p<0.001), with a lower ECC LSI (-7.7%, p<0.001) and CON LSI (-10.0%, p<0.001). Conclusion Six months after ACL-R, both eccentric and concentric force production remain compromised, with significant inter-limb asymmetries. These findings highlight the need for targeted rehabilitation strategies to restore force symmetry and optimize return-to-sport readiness.

Biomechanical Alterations in the Unweight Phase of the Single-Leg Countermovement Jump After ACL Reconstruction
Article scientifique ArODES

Roberto Ricupito, Marco Bravi, Fabio Santacaterina, Giandomenico Campardo, Riccardo Guarise, Rosalba Castellucci, Ismail Bouzekraoui Alaoui, Florian Forelli

Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology,  2025, 10, 3, 296

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Résumé:

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLr) often leads to asymmetries between limbs, with variable return-to-performance rates in athletes. The single-leg countermovement jump (SLCMJ) is commonly used to assess postoperative knee function. However, limited research has explored deficits specifically during the unweighting phase of the jump. Methods: This study assessed 53 recreational athletes (11 females, 42 males) between 6 and 9 months post-ACLr using a dual force plate system (1000 Hz). Each participant performed three maximal-effort SLCMJs per limb. Outcome measures included jump height, negative peak velocity, minimum force, and center of mass (COM) displacement. Paired t-tests and Wilcoxon tests were used to compare the ACLr limb with the contralateral limb. Results: Compared to the healthy limb, the ACLr limb showed significantly lower negative peak velocity (−0.80 ± 0.40 m/s vs. −0.94 ± 0.40 m/s, p < 0.001), higher minimum force (36.75 ± 17.88 kg vs. 32.05 ± 17.25 kg, p < 0.001), and reduced COM displacement (−17.62 ± 6.25 cm vs. −19.73 ± 5.34 cm, p = 0.014). Eccentric phase duration did not differ significantly. Conclusions: Athletes post-ACLr demonstrate altered neuromuscular control during the early SLCMJ phase. These findings highlight the importance of rehabilitation strategies targeting eccentric strength and symmetry restoration.

Influence of Graft Type on Muscle Contractile Dynamics After ACL Reconstruction: A 9-Month Tensiomyographic Follow-Up
Article scientifique ArODES

Georges Kakavas, Florian Forelli, Yoann Demangeot, Vasileios Korakakis, Nikolaos Malliaropoulos, Nicola Maffulli

diagnostics,  2025, 15, 15, 1920

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Résumé:

Background: Persistent neuromuscular deficits following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) are frequently attributed to arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI). The type of autologous graft used may influence the trajectory of neuromuscular recovery. Objective: To investigate the influence of graft type—bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB), hamstring tendon (HT), and quadriceps tendon (QT)—on the contractile properties of periarticular knee muscles over a 9-month post-operative period. Hypothesis: Each graft type would result in distinct recovery patterns of muscle contractility, as measured by tensiomyography (TMG). Methods: Thirty-one patients undergoing ACLR with BPTB (n = 8), HT (n = 12), or QT (n = 11) autografts were evaluated at 3, 6, and 9 months post-operatively. TMG was used to measure contraction time (Tc) and maximal displacement (Dm) in the rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, and biceps femoris. Results: Significant within-group improvements in Tc and Dm were observed across all graft types from 3 to 9 months (Tc: p < 0.001 to p = 0.02; Dm: p < 0.001 to p = 0.01). The QT group showed the most pronounced Tc reduction in RF (from 30.16 ± 2.4 ms to 15.44 ± 1.6 ms, p < 0.001) and VM (from 31.05 ± 2.6 ms to 18.65 ± 1.8 ms, p = 0.004). In contrast, HT grafts demonstrated limited Tc recovery in BF between 6 and 9 months compared to BPTB and QT (p < 0.001), indicating a stagnation phase. BPTB exhibited persistent bilateral deficits in both quadriceps and BF at 9 months. Conclusions: Autograft type significantly influences neuromuscular recovery patterns after ACLR. TMG enables objective, muscle-specific monitoring of contractile dynamics and may support future individualized rehabilitation strategies

Early Postoperative Evaluation of Arthrogenic Muscle Inhibition, Anterior Knee Laxity, and Kinesiophobia After ACL Reconstruction: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
Article scientifique ArODES

Florian Forelli, Yoann Demangeot, Agathe Dourver, Adrien Cerrito

healthcare,  2025, 13, 13, 1481

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Résumé:

Background: Arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI), anterior knee laxity, and kinesiophobia are key barriers to recovery after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). While each has been independently studied, their interrelationships during the early postoperative phase remain unclear. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 56 patients (mean age: 26.5 ± 5.7 years) who underwent ACLR using hamstring autografts. Clinical AMI grading, GNRB® arthrometer measurements of anterior tibial translation, and the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia-11 (TSK-11) were used to assess neuromuscular inhibition, mechanical laxity, and psychological fear, respectively. All evaluations were performed at 34.9 ± 4.2 postoperative days. Statistical analyses included one-way ANOVA, Kruskal– Wallis, and Spearman correlation. Results: No significant differences in TSK-11 scores were observed across AMI grades (p = 0.327). Similarly, anterior laxity did not differ significantly between AMI groups (p = 0.182). Correlation between GNRB measurements and TSK-11 scores was non-significant (rho = −0.220, p = 0.103). Conclusions: In the early phase following ACLR, AMI, anterior laxity, and kinesiophobia appear to be independent domains. These findings suggest that early postoperative rehabilitation should address each dimension individually. Further longitudinal studies are needed to explore their potential interactions over time.

Pourquoi l’épanchement du genou
Article scientifique ArODES

Florian Forelli, Ayrton Moiroux-Sahraoui

Kinésithérapie, la Revue,  2025, 25, 281, 44-45

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Résumé:

Après une intervention chirurgicale du genou, telle qu’une arthroplastie ou une ligamentoplastie, il est courant d’observer un gonflement du membre inférieur. Cette accumulation de liquide peut être due à un épanchement articulaire ou à un œdème, deux phénomènes distincts en termes de localisation, de mécanisme et de traitement. La différenciation clinique entre ces deux conditions est essentielle pour adapter la rééducation et éviter toute complication postopératoire.

The Impact of Concussions on Neuromuscular Control and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Risk in Female Soccer Players: Mechanisms and Prevention—A Narrative Review
Article scientifique ArODES

Georgios Kakavas, Nikolaos Malliaropoulos, George Skarpas, Florian Forelli

Journal of clinical medicine,  2025, 14, 9, 3199

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Résumé:

Soccer players, particularly females, exhibit an increased risk of both concussions and Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries. Emerging evidence suggests that neurcognitive deficits following concussions may impair neuromuscular control, increasing ACL injury susceptibility. This study aims to explore the interplay between concussions, neuromuscular deficits, and ACL injury risk, while proposing targeted prevention strategies. Methods: A comprehensive review of current literature was conducted to analyze the biomechanical and neurophysiological impact of concussions on ACL injury risk. Key areas investigated include the effect of sub-concussive impacts on proprioception, reaction time, and postural stability, as well as sex-based differences in injury susceptibility. Results: Findings indicate that post-concussion neuromuscular impairments—such as altered proprioception, delayed reaction times, and compromised joint stability—heighten ACL injury risk. Female athletes, due to biomechanical and hormonal factors, are particularly vulnerable. Preventive measures, including neuromuscular training, cervical spine strengthening, and optimized return-to-play protocols, are essential to mitigate these risks. Conclusions: Longitudinal research is needed to further elucidate the connection between head trauma and ACL injuries. Implementing evidence- based interventions and policy changes, such as modifying heading exposure in youth athletes, may enhance player safety and reduce long-term injury burden in female soccer players.

Reverse Linear Neuro Periodization Model for Rehabilitation After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Narrative Review
Article scientifique ArODES

Georgios Kakavas, Emmanouil Brilakis, Maria Papatzikou, Nikolaos Malliaropoulos, Jean Mazeas, Florian Forelli

Clinics and Practice,  2025, 15, 6, 105

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Résumé:

Periodization is a concept of systematic progression in training and rehabilitation. The rehabilitation literature, however, is scarce, with information about optimally designing resistance training programs based on periodization principles for injured athletes. This periodization model—reverse linear neuro periodization—is a model proposed for the long-term rehabilitation needed after an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. With recent evidence supporting neural contributions to shoulder injuries and the rate of recovery, rehabilitation protocols may benefit from incorporating approaches that target the sensorimotor system. Integrating motor learning principles (external focus and differential learning) and new technologies (virtual reality, laser pointers, stroboscopic glasses) may bolster current shoulder rehabilitation protocols and improve patient recovery times and outcomes. Such an understanding allows well-informed sport rehabilitation specialists to better bridge the gap between the preparation for competition widely used by coaches and the treatment of injuries that may occur.

Rethinking the Assessment of Arthrogenic Muscle Inhibition After ACL Reconstruction: Implications for Return-to-Sport Decision-Making—A Narrative Review
Article scientifique ArODES

Florian Forelli, Ayrton Moiroux-Sahraoui, Jean Mazeas, Jonathan Dugernier, Adrien Cerrito

Journal of clinical medicine,  14, 2025, 2633

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Résumé:

Arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI) is a neuromuscular impairment commonly observed following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). This condition, characterized by persistent quadricep inhibition due to altered afferent feedback, significantly impacts neuromuscular recovery, delaying return to running and sport. Despite advancements in rehabilitation strategies, AMI may persist for months or even years after ACLR, leading to muscle strength asymmetries, altered biomechanics, and an increased risk of reinjury. The mechanisms underlying AMI involve both peripheral (joint effusion, mechanoreceptor dysfunction) and central (corticospinal inhibition, neuroplasticity alterations) components, which collectively hinder voluntary muscle activation and movement control. AMI alters gait mechanics, reduces knee stability, and promotes compensatory patterns that increase injury risk. Current return-to-sport protocols emphasize strength symmetry and functional performance but often neglect neuromuscular deficits. A comprehensive assessment integrating neuromuscular, biomechanical, and proprioceptive evaluations is needed at specific stages to optimize rehabilitation and minimize reinjury risk. Future research should explore targeted interventions such as neuromuscular stimulation, cognitive–motor training, and advanced gait analysis to mitigate AMI’s impact and facilitate a safer, more effective return to sport.

Velocity-based training in mid- and late-stage rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a narrative review and practical guidelines
Article scientifique ArODES

Florian Forelli, Patrice Marine, Ayrton Moiroux-Sahraoui, Jean Mazeas, Mathias Thoelen, Bram Swinnen, Mario Bizzini, Nicky Van Melick, Alexandre Rambaud

BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine,  2025, 11, 2, e002503

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Résumé:

Resistance training is critical for strength development and physical recovery after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Traditional percentage-based training (PBT) methods, which often focus on maximal strength and training to failure, are not able to objectify rapid force development. Velocity-based training (VBT), using movement velocity as a metric for training intensity, offers a promising alternative. This article promotes the use of VBT in ACLR rehabilitation, emphasising its potential to enhance neuromuscular recovery and return-to-sport outcomes. A narrative review of current literature focuses on mid- and late-stage rehabilitation to examine how VBT can address PBT limitations and improve functional recovery and sports performance. VBT provides several advantages, including real-time feedback, individualised load adjustments and better alignment with daily physiological variations. It facilitates the accurate training load prescriptions, enhances motivation and reduces unnecessary fatigue. Monitoring load–velocity profiles and velocity-loss thresholds enables more effective strength and hypertrophy adaptations without reaching muscular failure. In midstage rehabilitation, VBT not only helps to restore muscle strength and hypertrophy using submaximal loads and individualised velocity profiles but also addresses unwanted neuroplasticity following ACLR by providing augmented feedback and facilitating an external focus. In late-stage rehabilitation, VBT focuses on improving explosive strength and power, crucial for sports performance. Despite its benefits, VBT application in rehabilitation is limited by a lack of data on injured populations and specific exercises, such as open-chain single-joint movements. Integrating VBT allows practitioners to enhance traditional rehabilitation protocols, potentially leading to better clinical outcomes and providing a more personalised rehabilitation process.

Can Unilateral Strength Training Optimize Change of Direction Mechanics and Mitigate Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Risk in Female Soccer Players? A Preliminary Pre–Post Intervention Study
Article scientifique ArODES

Alice Rogalski, Ayrton Moiroux-Sahraoui, Maria Stergiou, Maxence Pieulhet, Maurice Douryang, Florian Forelli

Sports,  2025-13, 5, 135

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Résumé:

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are a major concern in female soccer players, with change of direction (COD) movements being a key contributor to non-contact injuries. Traditional injury prevention programs have shown limited effectiveness in addressing individual biomechanical deficits. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 10-week unilateral strength training program on COD mechanics and ACL injury risk factors. Methods: Eleven female soccer players participated in a pre–post intervention study. Movement mechanics was assessed using the Cutting Movement Assessment Score (CMAS) at 45◦, 75◦, and 90◦ angles. The training program included unilateral lower limb strengthening exercises designed to enhance neuromuscular control and reduce biomechanical risk factors. Risk profiles were analyzed before and after the intervention. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests and effect size calculations. Results: Significant improvements in CMAS scores were observed at all COD angles (p < 0.05), with the largest effect at 90◦ (Cohen’s d = 2.1). The percentage of high-risk players decreased from 82% to 0%, while the proportion of low-risk players increased from 36% to 73%. Improved knee alignment, foot placement, and trunk stability were key contributors to the observed movement enhancements. Conclusions: Unilateral strength training may effectively improve COD mechanics and reduces biomechanical risk factors associated with ACL injuries in female soccer players. Our findings suggest that individualized training interventions can influence current injury prevention strategies.

Criteria-Based Decision Making for Introducing Open Kinetic Chain Exercise after-ACL Reconstruction: A Scoping Review
Article scientifique ArODES

Florian Forelli, Jean Mazeas, Vasileios Korakakis, Haashim Ramtoola, Amaury Vandebrouck, Pascal Duffiet, Louis Ratte, Georgios Kakavas, Ismail Bouzekaroui Alaoui, Maurice Douryang, Andreas Bjerregaard, Jérôme Riera, Alexandre J. M. Rambaud

Sports Medicine - Open,  2025, 11, 37

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Résumé:

Background: After an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), mounting evidence suggests that open kinetic chain (OKC) strengthening is safe, reduces the risk of anterior knee pain, and significantly improves the quadriceps strength. However, clinicians are reluctant to use OKC knee strengthening exercises mainly due to the strong beliefs that they might increase graft laxity. The objective of this scoping review is to identify the key criteria employed in the scientific literature for the safe introduction of OKC quadriceps strengthening following ACLR. Methods : A scoping review of the literature was conducted on the online databases MEDLINE (PubMed), ScienceDirect, Embase and CINAHL Library online. Data regarding time-based criteria and/or clinical based criteria allowing OKC exercises introduction following ACLR were searched for. Only studies involving patients who performed quadriceps strengthening using any type of OKC exercises were included, regardless of the type, resistance, location, load magnitude, type of muscle contraction, knee range of motion, or duration of the strengthening protocol. Results : Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-one employed time-based criteria for the introduction of OKC exercise. The median time from when OKC was permitted was 15 postoperative days (range 1–270 days), while the mean time was 31.6 ± 56.7 postoperative days. In 30.7% of the studies additional clinical examination components were used. These components included range of motion (0-100°), numeric pain scale score < 2 or 3, absence of joint effusion (assess by the stroke test), full knee active extension (assess by the straight leg raise), and walking without crutches for the decision-making regarding OKC exercise introduction. Conclusion: Less than one study in 3 reported clinical criteria for the introduction of OKC exercise. This highlights the absence of consensus among surgeons and physiotherapists, thereby hindering their ability to make informed decisions based on scientific evidence. Although the use of OKC exercise appears to be safe, precautions to maintain the integrity of the surgical repair need to be implemented. The establishment of valid criteria is crucial to support evidence-based decision-making.

Impact of Hamstring Graft on Hamstring Peak Torque and Maximum Effective Angle After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: An Exploratory and Preliminary Study
Article scientifique ArODES

Ismail Bouzekraoui Alaoui, Ayrton Moiroux-Sahraoui, Jean Mazeas, Georgios Kakavas, Maciej Bialy, Maurice Douryang, Florian Forelli

Bioengineering,  2025, 12, 5, 465

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Résumé:

Purpose: Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using the hamstring graft is commonly performed to restore knee stability; however, it induces significant neuromuscular and biomechanical changes, particularly in the hamstring. This study aimed to evaluate the changes in maximum effective angle, hamstring strength, and hamstring-toquadriceps (H/Q) strength ratio at 3 and 6 months post-ACLR and compare these outcomes to a control group. Methods: This prospective controlled study included 20 ACLR patients and 20 age- and gender-matched controls. Hamstring peak torque, maximum effective angle (MEA), and the H/Q ratio were assessed using isokinetic dynamometry at 60◦/s. The ACLR group was evaluated postoperatively at 3 and 6 months, while the control group underwent a single evaluation. Results: At 3 and 6 months, the ACLR group exhibited significantly lower MEA (26.3◦ ± 8.2 and 28.2◦ ± 9.4) compared to the control group (36.4◦± 12.0; p < 0.01). Hamstring peak torque and H/Q ratios were also lower in the ACLR group but showed slight improvements over time. The H/Q ratio increased significantly between 3 and 6 months (51% to 56%; p = 0.041). Conclusion: The use of hamstring graft in ACLR leads to persistent MEA and strength deficits despite rehabilitation. Advanced, targeted rehabilitation protocols are essential to address these deficits, optimize recovery, and reduce the risk of reinjury.

Neuroplastic periodization in tendinopathy
Article scientifique ArODES

Georgios Kakavas, Florian Forelli, Vasileios Korakakis, Nikolaos Malliaropoulos, Nicola Maffulli

British Medical Bulletin,  2025, 154, 1, ldaf006

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Résumé:

Introduction: Periodized rehabilitation for tendinopathies integrates principles of athletic training into structured protocols to optimize tendon healing and functional recovery minimizing recurrence. This review explores the role of concurrent and phasic periodization strategies in tendon rehabilitation, focusing on optimizing strength, power, and neuromuscular control. Areas of agreement: Early phases prioritize pain management and load capacity through prolonged isometric contractions, to improve neuromuscular engagement without exacerbating symptoms. Heavy, slow resistance exercises, central to progressive loading, facilitate tendon remodeling and strength development. Subsequent phases incorporate energy storage and release, sport-specific exercises tailored to individual goals, using externally paced movements to enhance motor control and corticospinal drive. Neuroplastic training is promising, aligning physical rehabilitation with cognitive engagement to optimize motor learning and reduce maladaptive patterns. Areas of controversy: At present, no randomized controlled trials have tested the periodization concept in the management of tendinopathy conditions. Growing points: Systematic evaluation, including range of motion, tissue flexibility, and limb biomechanics, is necessary to identify and address kinetic chain dysfunctions in patients with tendon ailments. Reintegration into sport or activity should follow clear benchmarks, such as symmetrical strength, pain-free function, and tolerance for high-intensity loads. Source of data: Analysis of the current literature, and expert opinion. Areas timely for developing research: This evidence-based framework offers clinicians a practical roadmap for tendon rehabilitation, combining physiological and biomechanical considerations to support safe return to sport or activity. A structured individualized approach ensures optimal recovery by addressing movement dysfunctions, monitoring load tolerance, and reducing the risk of re-injury.

Effectiveness of Neuromuscular Training in Preventing Lower Limb Soccer Injuries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Article scientifique ArODES

Maria Stergiou, Alberto Lorenzo Calvo, Florian Forelli

Journal of clinical medicine,  2025, 14, 5, 1714

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Résumé:

Abstract: Background: Soccer is associated with a high risk of injuries, mainly affecting the lower limbs, leading to significant consequences for player performance and career longevity. Neuromuscular training (NMT) has been proposed as an effective preventive strategy, but its impact varies across different populations and implementation strategies. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search of PubMed, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus identified randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and systematic reviews examining the effects of NMT on lower limb injury prevention in soccer players. Study quality was assessed using the Downs and Black tool, and injury incidence rate ratios were analyzed. Results: Eleven studies, encompassing over 10,000 soccer players, were included. NMT interventions, particularly FIFA 11+, significantly reduced injury rates compared to standard warm-ups. Higher adherence and coach education enhanced program effectiveness. Female players benefited more, particularly in ACL injury prevention. No significant differences were observed between shorter (10 min) and standard (20 min) NMT protocols. Conclusions: NMT effectively reduces lower limb injuries in soccer, with adherence and proper coaching being key determinants of success. Future research should optimize program design and long-term adherence strategies to maximize benefits across all player demographics.

Neuromuscular Control Deficits After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Pilot Study Using Single-Leg Functional Tests and Electromyography
Article scientifique ArODES

Ayrton Moiroux--Sahraoui, Jean Mazeas, Maxime Gold, Georgios Kakavas, Florian Forelli

Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology,  2025, 10, 1, 98

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Résumé:

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate neuromuscular control and muscle activation patterns in individuals following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, compared to healthy controls. Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted following STROBE guidelines, including 16 participants (ACL group: n = 9; control group: n = 7). Participants performed the single-leg squat (SLS) test and the single-leg drop landing (SLDL) test. Neuromuscular control was assessed using the Qualitative Analysis of Single-Leg Loading Score (QASLS), while gluteus medius and vastus medialis activation were recorded using surface electromyography. Results: The ACL group showed significantly higher QASLSs in the SLS test (p = 0.0113), indicating poorer movement quality, while no difference was found in the SLDL test (p = 0.5484). Gluteus medius activation was lower in the ACL group during the SLS test (p = 0.0564), and vastus medialis activation was higher but not significantly different (p = 0.095). Conclusions: These findings highlight persistent neuromuscular deficits post-ACL-reconstruction, particularly in SLS tasks, reinforcing the need for targeted rehabilitation strategies focusing on hip stabilization and quadriceps motor control to optimize movement quality and reduce reinjury risk.

Can Blood Flow Restriction Be the Key to Reducing Quadriceps Weakness in the Early and Mid-Phases After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with a Hamstring Graft? A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Article scientifique ArODES

Ayrton Moiroux-Sahraoui, Jean Mazeas, Marine Blossier, Maurice Douryang, Georges Kakavas, Timothy E. Hewett, Florian Forelli

Systematic Review,  2025, 15, 3, 382

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Résumé:

Abstract: Background: Injury to the anterior cruciate ligament is one of the most common knee injuries. Following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, strength deficits and reduced quadriceps and hamstring muscle mass are common. Traditional strengthening protocols recommend the use of heavy loads. However, following surgery, heavy-load exercises are contraindicated to protect the joint and graft. Blood flow restriction resistance training is an alternative that optimizes muscle recovery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of blood flow restriction resistance training on muscle mass and strength after ACLR. Methods: The Pubmed, Cochrane Library, and PEDro databases were used to constitute the corpus of this systematic review. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed with the Cochrane Collaboration’s analysis grid. Results: Thirty-four articles were identified in the initial search, and five randomized controlled trials were included in this review. Not all studies reported significant results regarding strength and muscle mass. Two of these studies observed a significant improvement in strength associated with blood flow restriction resistance training compared with the control group. A significant increase in muscle mass was observed in one study. Conclusions: The blood flow restriction resistance training method shows superior efficacy to training without occlusion, yet this device has not been shown to be more effective than heavy-load resistance training in terms of muscular strength and muscle mass. Blood flow restriction resistance training shows superior efficacy in both these variables when used with low loads. However, there are still few random controlled trials on this subject, and this review presents their limitations and biases. Future research is needed on guidelines for the application of blood flow restriction resistance training in clinical populations.

2024

Beyond the menstrual cycle :
Article scientifique ArODES
time for a holistic approach to athlete health and performance

Anna Stitelmann, Suzanne Gard, Stephanie E. Coen, Joanne Parsons, Amy Arundale, Loïc Bel, Florian Forelli

International journal of sports physical therapy,  2024, 19, 12

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