A Rehabilitation Progression for a Baseball Athlete Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Case Report

Abstract

Background Clinicians have long sought to return athletes safely and expeditiously to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. No current literature exists showcasing the rehabilitation progression and testing battery that addresses the unique sport-specific demands of a high school baseball athlete. The purpose of this case study is to address a gap in the literature by providing an example of the postoperative management of a high school baseball player. Case Presentation An 18-year-old baseball player presented to physical therapy following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. He participated in a sport-specific 9-month course of rehabilitation. Outcome and Follow-Up The athlete was cleared for competitive baseball at 9 months post-surgery after completion of a comprehensive rehabilitation program and return-to-sport testing battery uniquely tailored toward the demands of his sport. Discussion The case study demonstrates the use of sport-specific rehabilitation strategies and return-to-sport testing for a high school baseball player. After a multidisciplinary consensus was reached regarding return-to-sport readiness, the athlete successfully returned to competitive baseball. JOSPT Cases 2022;2(2):64–84. doi:10.2519/josptcases.2022.10804