The role of menstrual cycle phase-based resistance training for women post anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a scoping review

Abstract

Background

Strength deficits are common following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Best practice guidelines recommend resistance training post-ACLR to target these strength deficits. Research has supported menstrual cycle (MC) phase-based resistance training for eumenorrheic women, however its applicability for women post-ACLR was unknown.

Objectives

This study aimed to establish whether there was a role for MC phase-based resistance training for women post-ACLR.

Methods

Authors searched seven databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, SportDiscus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar) between 6/12/21 – 22/12/22. Primary studies or reviews describing MC phase-based resistance training at least one MC duration, published in academic journals, and written in English were included. Studies which investigated the effect of the oral contraceptive pill on training responses were excluded.

Results

The search yielded 1942 titles and abstracts, with 14 studies included in the final analysis (eight primary studies). No studies were found that investigated MC phase-based resistance training in women post anterior ligament reconstruction. Studies were limited by methodological issues. Six primary studies supported follicular phase-based training to enhance responses, including superior strength, power, lean mass gain, and reduced dysmenorrhea symptoms. One study reported no difference in strength gain between follicular and luteal phase-based resistance training, and another study reported that underweight participants obtained superior strength gain following luteal phase-based resistance training.

Conclusions

The results suggest that MC phase-based training may influence responses pertinent to women post-ACLR. There is scope for future research to investigate follicular phase-based resistance training in women following ACLR.

Keywords:

• Physical therapy modalities
• sports medicine
• resistance training
• knee
• muscle strength

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to express their sincere appreciation for the invaluable contribution of Michael Fauchelle, librarian, who collaborated with them in formulating a robust search strategy for the literature review.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by The New Zealand Manipulative Physiotherapists Association (NZMPA) Scholarship 2020. It was also supported by the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) who have provided funding for the primary author’s PhD studies as part of her continuing professional development plan.