| Using a criteria-based, evidence-based constructed approach to rehabilitation after ACL surgery is essential to progress a patient systematically and successfully through the rehabilitation process. It is imperative to control post-operative pain, inflammation and swelling during the first weeks of rehabilitation. Calming the knee down initially, starting slowly, will allow the rehabilitation to accelerate faster in the long run. Post-operative rehabilitation begins with a range of movement exercises, emphasizing full passive knee extension and weight-bearing activities immediately post-operatively. |
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EXERCISE EXAMPLES
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| Knee Extension on a Bolster |
Straight Leg Raise |
Glute Bridge |
Balance (Single-leg on balance board) |
Gait |
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INTERNAL FOCUS
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| “Press your knee toward the table” |
“Lift your leg 6 inches off the ground” |
“First, tighten your abdominals, keep them activated, then lift your hips off the floor” |
“Focus on keeping your pelvis as still as possible" |
“Extend your knee while walking” |
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EXTERNAL FOCUS
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| “Press the bolster toward the ground” |
“Lift your shoe 6 inches off the ground” |
“Push into the ground and bring this marker off the floor” (marker on waist) |
“Minimize the movement of the balance board” |
“Focus on the markers drawn on the floor” (markers based on symmetrical gait cycle) |
