Effects of Core Exercises on Balance in People With and Without ACL Surgery

The main purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare the effects of an 8-week core stabilization exercise program on balance, trunk muscle endurance, and lower body strength.

The study includes two groups of participants: 15 individuals who have had Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery and 15 healthy individuals. Both groups will perform the same core stabilization exercises for 8 weeks, twice a week, under the supervision of a physiotherapist.

The goal is to determine if this exercise program improves balance and core strength in people who have had ACL surgery and to compare these results with those of healthy individuals performing the same exercises.

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Key information

Conditions

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation

Age range

18 year–65 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Bezmialem Vakif University Faculty of Medicine Hospital, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Istanbul, Fatih, 34093, Turkey (Türkiye)

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

Aged between 18 and 65 years.
Agreement to participate regularly in the 8-week exercise program.
No contraindications to physical activity, as assessed by a medical professional.
ACLR group: history of unilateral ACL reconstruction within the past five years.
Control group: no known history of lower extremity injury or surgery.

Exclusion criteria

Any musculoskeletal or neurological condition affecting balance or core stabilization.
Participation in a structured core stabilization exercise program within the previous six months.
Any acute injury or systemic disease that may interfere with study participation.

Treatment and study plan

Core Stabilization Exercise Program

Behavioral

Participants receive a supervised core stabilization exercise program for a duration of 8 weeks. Sessions are conducted twice per week by a physiotherapist. The program includes a set of standardized exercises such as the Hundreds, clam exercise, plank, side plank, dead bug exercise, curl-ups, and bridging.

Primary outcomes

Change in Dynamic Balance as Measured by the Y-Balance Test

Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks

The Y-Balance Test (YBT) is used to assess dynamic postural control. Participants stand on one leg at the center of a grid and reach with the other leg as far as possible in three directions: anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral. The maximum reach distance in each direction is recorded in centimeters. A higher score indicates better dynamic balance.
Change in Trunk Muscle Endurance as Measured by the McGill Core Endurance Tests

Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks

Trunk muscle endurance is assessed using the McGill Core Endurance Test battery, which consists of four tests: a trunk flexor endurance test, a trunk extensor endurance test (Sorenson test), and right and left lateral trunk muscle endurance tests (side bridge). The time in seconds that a participant can hold each specific position without losing the correct form is recorded. A longer time indicates greater endurance.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Biruni University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Comparison of the Effects of Core Stabilization Exercises on Balance and Trunk Endurance in Individuals With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Surgery and Healthy Individuals.

Important dates

Study start: 2024
Primary completion: 2024
Study completion: 2024
First posted: Jan 9, 2026
Registry last updated: Jan 12, 2026

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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Completed