Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Rehab
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Understanding the ACL
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is an internal ligament in the knee that connects its two main bones (the femur and tibia). It helps to provide stability to the knee, preventing the femur from moving forward when weight-bearing and preventing the joint from rotating.
ACL injuries most commonly occur when playing high-intensity sports with frequent changes in direction (such as football, netball, soccer, tennis, and skiing). They’re often a result of the player’s own movement, such as an awkward landing or missed step, but can also be caused by contact with an opponent or object.
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What is an ACL Injury?
- Grade 1 means mild ligament damage (slightly stretched but still capable of keeping the knee joint stable).
- Grade 2 means a partial tear (when the ligament has been stretched until it becomes loose).
- Grade 3 means a complete tear (when the ligament has been severed and the knee joint is unstable).
ACL Injury Symptoms
- Severe knee pain and inability to continue activity
- Rapid swelling (within a few hours of the injury)
- Loss of range of motion in the knee
- A feeling of the knee ‘giving way’ when bearing weight
- Knee stiffness
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What Does ACL Rehab Involve?
Generally speaking, there are two approaches to ACL rehab – the first is management of the injury, and the second is aiding in recovery following an ACL reconstruction.
Non-Surgical Management Approach
This route is typically taken by those who do not wish to return to high-intensity sports. This does not mean that you will be unable to play sports at all – running in a straight line, swimming, bike riding, and golf are all activities that you will be able to safely enjoy.
Physiotherapy is vital to restore movement and strength in the knee. Rehabilitation will also focus on proprioceptive retraining, which involves exercises to improve the protective reflexes around the knee to minimise instability and reduce the risk of re-injury.
Surgical Recovery Approach
Those who want to return to high-intensity sports will often require an ACL reconstruction to prevent their knee buckling when playing. Young people with high activity levels or people who work in an environment where knee stability is essential for safety and function may also be recommended to take a surgical approach.
Pre-operative rehabilitation will involve physiotherapy to reduce swelling, regain movement, and limit the loss of strength. Post-operative rehabilitation will involve physiotherapy to improve strength, motion, and balance while the graft heals. Physiotherapy is essential to the success of the surgery and will take 12 to 18 months to complete.
Your ACL Rehab Questions Answered
No, surgery is not the only option for recovering from an ACL injury. Your choice of approach, however, will depend on several factors that should be discussed with your physiotherapist and other members of your healthcare team to ensure it’s right for you.
This will depend on several factors, from your chosen approach to your goal sport. Rehabilitation is also more ‘phase-based’, which means that your progression is based on you achieving certain milestones rather than how much time has passed. On average, however, the journey for non-surgical management is 3 to 9 months, and for surgical recovery is 9 to 12 months.
Yes, mild ACL injuries can be managed with physiotherapy. Compression can be used to reduce swelling and mobilise the soft tissue, while physiotherapy exercises will strengthen the muscles that support the knee (specifically the quadriceps and hamstrings).
While some injuries are unavoidable, there are some preventative measures that you can take to reduce your risk. These include warming up before playing sport, regular strength and conditioning for the legs and core, neuromuscular training to improve balance and coordination, wearing proper footwear, and using proper sports equipment.
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Why Ace Allied Health?
Multidisciplinary Approach
We offer a range of services to ensure that your treatment is appropriate, including physiotherapy, exercise physiology, dietetics, and more.
Personalised Treatment
We don’t provide generalised treatment – instead, we get to the root of your problem and understand your goals, tailoring a plan to match.
Modern Resources
Each of our clinics is equipped with up-to-date facilities and technology, allowing us to deliver comprehensive care and treatment.
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Seek ACL Rehab Through Ace Allied Health
Physiotherapists are movement specialists who provide hands-on care for those suffering from ACL injuries. With a tailored treatment plan, they will be able to help reduce your pain and swelling, regain strength and mobility, and return to your desired activities.
If you have sustained an ACL injury and would like to discuss your rehabilitation options, book an appointment with the compassionate team at Ace Allied Health today.
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Empowering Health and Performance
At Ace Allied Health, your well-being is our priority. No matter your age, stage of life, or lifestyle, we want to help you feel your best! Whether that’s with physiotherapy, exercise physiology, dietetics, or something else, we’re the team in your corner cheering you on to help you reach your goals. Take the first step towards a healthier and happier life by booking an appointment today.