Effects of strength and power training in the late phase of rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in team invasion sport athletes: protocol for a systematic review

Background and objective: This systematic review aims to synthesise the evidence on structured strength, power, plyometric and change-of-direction training programmes applied during the late, advanced or return-to-sport phase of rehabilitation after primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in athletes from team invasion/opposition sports, and their effects on strength, power, functional performance, movement quality, return-to-sport readiness, return to sport, reinjury and psychological readiness. Eligibility: Athletes aged ≥16 years (or mean age ≥16) after primary ACLR, including concomitant meniscal or cartilage injury, from team invasion/opposition sports (football, futsal, handball, basketball, rugby, American, Australian and Gaelic football, hurling/camogie, field and ice hockey, lacrosse, netball, ultimate), or mixed samples with ≥75% from these sports or an extractable subgroup.