What is the Lysholm knee score and how is it used in ACL recovery?

The Lysholm knee score is a validated clinical assessment ranging from 0-100 that evaluates knee function across 8 domains: limping, support, locking, instability, pain, swelling, stair climbing, and squatting. Scores above 84 are considered good, and above 95 excellent.

What is a normal Lysholm score after ACL reconstruction?

After successful ACL reconstruction, patients typically achieve Lysholm scores above 84 (good) by 6-12 months post-surgery. Scores above 90 are considered excellent and indicate near-normal knee function.

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Lysholm Knee Score

Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale

A validated questionnaire focusing on knee symptoms and function, particularly stability.

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About the Lysholm Score

The Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale is a widely used patient-reported outcome measure that evaluates knee function with special emphasis on instability. It assesses 8 domains:

Limping (5 points)
Support (5 points)
Locking (15 points)
Instability/Giving Way (25 points)
Pain (25 points)
Swelling (10 points)
Stair Climbing (10 points)
Squatting (5 points)

Total score: 0-100. Higher scores indicate better function.

1. Limp

None (5 pts) Slight or periodical (3 pts) Severe and constant (0 pts)

2. Support

None (5 pts) Stick or crutch (2 pts) Weight-bearing impossible (0 pts)

3. Locking

No locking and no catching sensations (15 pts) Catching sensation but no locking (10 pts) Locking occasionally (6 pts) Locking frequently (2 pts) Locked joint on examination (0 pts)

4. Instability (Giving Way)

Never gives way (25 pts) Rarely during athletics or other severe exertion (20 pts) Frequently during athletics or other severe exertion (or unable to participate) (15 pts) Occasionally in daily activities (10 pts) Often in daily activities (5 pts) Every step (0 pts)

5. Pain

None (25 pts) Inconstant and slight during severe exertion (20 pts) Marked during severe exertion (15 pts) Marked on or after walking more than 2 km (10 pts) Marked on or after walking less than 2 km (5 pts) Constant (0 pts)

6. Swelling

None (10 pts) On severe exertion (6 pts) On ordinary exertion (2 pts) Constant (0 pts)

7. Stair Climbing

No problems (10 pts) Slightly impaired (6 pts) One step at a time (2 pts) Impossible (0 pts)

8. Squatting

No problems (5 pts) Slightly impaired (4 pts) Not beyond 90 degrees (2 pts) Impossible (0 pts)

out of 100

Excellent

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Your Lysholm Score History

Track your progress over time.