A Methodology for Quantifying Neurological Adaptation to Physiotherapy in ACL-Injured Patients through Muscle Activity and Brain Connectivity Analysis

In this study, we propose a methodology for investigating the effects of a single physiotherapy session on gait patterns and brain connectivity in patients with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. A case study based for one patient with ACL injury is used for proof of concept. Both Gait and EEG data were collected before and after therapy which consisted of electrical muscle stimulation and ultrasound. Muscle activity in the right lower limb showed significant changes post-therapy, particularly in the vastus lateralis, rectus femoris, and gastrocnemius muscles. Meanwhile, analysis of brain functional connectivity revealed increased connectivity in the frontal regions and between motor-related brain areas post-therapy, suggesting enhanced motor control and coordination. These findings highlight the potential of targeted physiotherapy interventions to improve both physical and neurological aspects of rehabilitation in ACL-injured individuals. More clinical studies are needed to validate our preliminary data.