Return to sport assessment - Is self-assessment possible?

While we highly recommended to have a physiotherapist or healthcare provider assess an your ability to return to sport after a knee injury or surgery, there are a few self-administered tests you can perform to gain some insight into your readiness. However, please note that these self-assessment methods cannot replace a thorough evaluation by a qualified professional. If possible, it's always best to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate and comprehensive assessment. That being said, here are a few self-administered tests you can consider:

Single-Leg Balance Test: Stand on one leg with your hands on your hips or extended in front of you. Maintain your balance for 30 seconds while keeping your knee stable and avoiding excessive movement. Repeat on the other leg. Note any difficulty maintaining balance or feeling of instability.

Single-Leg Hop Test: Hop forward as far as you can on one leg, landing softly and maintaining your balance. Measure the distance you covered. Repeat on the other leg. Pay attention to any pain, instability, or difficulty achieving symmetrical distance between legs.

Single-Leg Squat Test: Stand on one leg and slowly lower your body into a squat position, aiming for a 60-degree knee flexion. Focus on maintaining control and stability throughout the movement. Repeat on the other leg. Note any pain, instability, or inability to perform the movement smoothly.

Agility Test: Set up a small agility course with cones or markers. Incorporate forward, backward, lateral, and diagonal movements, as well as quick changes of direction. Perform the course at a controlled pace, paying attention to any pain, instability, or difficulty performing the movements smoothly.

Subjective Assessment: Reflect on your overall confidence, comfort, and perceived ability to perform sport-specific movements and activities without pain or hesitation. Assess your psychological readiness, including your mindset, motivation, and mental resilience.

Remember, these self-assessments are not a substitute for a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. They can, however, give you some indication of your current functional status. It's important to consult with a physiotherapist or healthcare provider who can conduct a thorough evaluation, assess your progress, and guide you through an appropriate return-to-sport program based on your individual needs.