recovery from acl surgery goals:

Approx duration: Day zero to 14+

Graft type influences stability of joint, donor site deficits and complications

#1: Set out a routine for icing, compression, elevation, analgesia

HAPPY KNEE: Knee feels better after exercises. Resolve Full Extension again

HAPPY KNEE: Knee feels better after exercises. Resolve Full Extension again

DRY KNEE: Resolve Swelling - Effusions inhibit everything we want

DRY KNEE: Resolve Swelling - Effusions inhibit everything we want

ACTIVATE KNEE: No Quadriceps Lag (Lag Test)

ACTIVATE KNEE: No Quadriceps Lag (Lag Test)

NORMALISE GAIT: Focus on getting off those crutches

NORMALISE GAIT: Focus on getting off those crutches

acl recovery protocol:

ACL protocol.PNG

Assisted Extension Series:

  • Work up from 30 second holds to 2 minutes trough variations as symptoms allow

Assisted Flexion Series:

  • Flex knee 3x 10, hold position for 2 seconds.

  • Build up to reps of 30

  • Cycle 5 minutes and build to 10 as symptoms allow

Quadricep Activation Series:

  • Hold position for 5 seconds, repeat 3x10

  • Your physiotherapist may recommend a muscle stimulator

  • Option: Heel digs sitting

Key Mobility exercises:

Mini squat - sit to stand - high v low chair, ball against wall, mini band squats, once off the crutches (likely end of week 1)