Background: Persistent quadriceps muscle atrophy and reduced quality of life are common following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Backward treadmill walking has been proposed as a functional, closed-kinetic-chain intervention that may enhance postoperative recovery.
Objective: To examine the effects of graded backward treadmill training on quadriceps muscle mass and quality of life following ACL reconstruction.
Methods: Sixty individuals (18–45 years) post-ACL reconstruction were randomly allocated to five groups. Four groups performed backward treadmill walking at 0°, 5°, 10°, and 15° inclinations, while one group received conventional rehabilitation. Training was conducted for 20 minutes, three times per week for four weeks. Quadriceps muscle mass was assessed using ultrasound, and quality of life was measured using IKDC and ACL-QOL questionnaires.
Results: All groups demonstrated significant improvements. The 15° backward treadmill group showed the greatest increase in quadriceps muscle mass and the highest quality-of-life scores.
Conclusion: Graded backward treadmill training, particularly at higher inclinations, is an effective strategy to improve quadriceps muscle mass and quality of life following ACL reconstruction.
Keywords: Anterior cruciate ligament; Backward treadmill walking; Quadriceps muscle mass; Quality of life; Rehabilitation
How to cite this article: Joshi DD, Shetty V, Aaron P, Kumar KU D, Effects of Graded Backward Treadmill Training on Quadriceps Muscle Mass and Quality of Life Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(2s): 793-798; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.793-798