Glossary
Hop tests (return-to-sport testing)
Quick answer
Hop tests are a set of single-leg jumps, for distance, time or in a zigzag, that compare the operated or injured leg with the healthy one. They help decide when it is reasonably safe to return to football, padel or other sport after ACL surgery or a knee injury, explains Doha knee surgeon Dr. Pablo Gelber at Aman Hospital.
What the tests involve
After a warm-up, you hop on one leg and land in control, usually doing each test on the healthy leg first. Common tests include:
- Single hop for distance: one hop as far as possible.
- Triple hop: three consecutive hops for distance.
- Crossover hop: three hops zigzagging across a line.
- Timed 6-metre hop: hopping a set distance as fast as possible.
They are demanding and you may feel tired or apprehensive. A physiotherapist watches not only the distance but the quality of landing, such as the knee collapsing inwards.
What they tell the surgeon
Results are expressed as a limb symmetry index: the injured leg's result as a percentage of the healthy leg's. Many programmes look for around 90 percent or more, together with good landing control, adequate strength and confidence, before full return to pivoting sport.
Hop tests are only done once the knee is calm, strong enough and cleared by the surgeon, often many months after ACL reconstruction. They are combined with isokinetic strength testing, questionnaires and the time since surgery, because no single test predicts re-injury on its own.
Frequently asked questions
When can I do hop tests after ACL surgery?
Usually in the later stages of rehabilitation, once swelling has settled, running is comfortable and strength is well on its way back. Your surgeon and physiotherapist decide the timing.
What happens if my injured leg scores much lower?
It shows where to focus, often strength and landing control. Rehabilitation continues and the tests are repeated rather than rushing back to sport.
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