Tips for a Successful ACL Rehabilitation Journey
An intro to Recover
ACL injuries are among the most prevalent ligament injuries of the knee. This type of injury is mostly seen in athletes and active individuals. However, ACL rupture can occur in anyone. The length of rehabilitation is long and challenging but the right rehabilitation program implemented at the right time speeds up recovery. Most individuals recover to their previous level of activity.
Below are insights into what can be expected and what essential goals you can achieve.
So what is a ACL?
The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the key ligaments in your knee that helps stabilize the knee joint. The ACL prevents excessive forward movement of the Tibia (Shin bone) to the Femur (Thigh bone). The Majority of tears happen with sudden stops, changes in direction, and improper landing mechanics.
Rehabilitation is broken up into six phases
Pre-op phase: Injury recovery and readiness for surgery
Phase 1: Recovery from surgery
Phase 2: Strength and neuromuscular control
Phase 3: Running, agility, and landings
Phase 4: Return to sport
Phase 5: Prevention of re-injury
A few tips to progress through an ACL rehab with minimal complications
GET KNEE STRAIGHT EARLY
Use knee pain and swelling as a guide
ACL tears happen from uncontrolled movements: Work on controlling those patterns
Build high-impact forces gradually
Complete your phases before returning to sport
Here at Moolman Physiotherapy we follow these guidelines strictly and use measurable tests at each phase of rehab to establish if or when our clients/patients can progress to the next phase. Give us a shout if you need help
Moolman Physiotherapy Cape Town
Contact:
081 409 2955
081 374 4301
081 380 0404
Email address
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