Evaluation of Non-Contact ACL and MCL Strain on Lower Extremities Using a Hybrid Cadaveric System Simulating High Impact Athletic Activates

In this thesis, adaptations were made on the Hybrid Cadaveric System to
accommodate new testing ramifications. The tests simulated dynamic loading (jump
landings) from a 1ft. height with various degrees of valgus (fixed hamstring and
quadricep forces) and various Quadricep (Q) and Hamstring (H) forces (fixed degrees of
valgus) to determine how the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and Medial Collateral
Ligament (MCL) behave. The tests performed included 0Q 0H, 100Q 0H, 300Q 0H,
300Q 100H, and 5°, 15°, 25° of valgus. To determine the strain behavior of the ACL and
MCL a variety of equipment was used, including electromagnetic force plate to take
impact reading, cables used to create loading on the quadriceps and hamstrings, and two
Differential Variance Resistance Transducers (DVRTs). These ultimately generated ACL
and MCL strain allowing for a variety of strain comparisons under various circumstances.
It was concluded that in a few cases there were statistically significant differences in
strain for the ACL and MCL when applying various quadricep and hamstring forces (fixed valgus). It was also found that only statistical significance was present in ACL
strain when comparing degrees of valgus (fixed quadricep and hamstring forces). The
research concluded that muscle activation reduces strain on the ACL and MCL in these
testing scenarios. It was also established that degrees of valgus effects the ACL but is
negligible for the MCL. However, due to complications and variables, further testing is
needed to increase accuracy and supply more definitive results.