10/02/2026
ACL Post-Op Rehabilitation Roadmap
🦵 ACL Post-Op Rehabilitation Roadmap
From Surgery → Strength → Safe Return to Sport
Postoperative rehab after ACL reconstruction isn’t just about healing — it’s about restoring strength, confidence, and performance while minimizing reinjury risk.
Recovery typically takes 9–12 months and follows a phased, criterion-based progression, not just time alone.👇
🔹 Phase 1: Early Protection (Weeks 0–6)
🎯 Goals: ✅ Reduce pain & swelling
✅ Restore knee ROM
✅ Rebuild quadriceps strength
📌 Targets: • Quad strength ≥ 60% LSI
• NMES to improve activation
• Gradual Open Kinetic Chain (after surgeon clearance)
💡 Focus: Control inflammation + wake up the quad
🔹 Phase 2: Intermediate (Weeks 7–9)
(Enter only if early goals achieved)
🎯 Criteria to start: • ROM 0°–115°
• Effusion ≤ 1+
• Normal gait
📌 Goals: • Full symmetrical ROM
• Quad strength ≥ 70% LSI
• Balance & neuromuscular training
• Begin aerobic conditioning
💡 Focus: Stability + movement quality
🔹 Phase 3: Late Strength (Weeks 10–16)
🎯 Progressions: • Start running
• Landing mechanics training
• Gym-based strengthening
📌 Targets: • Quad strength ≥ 80% LSI
💡 Focus: Strength + controlled impact
🔹 Phase 4: Transitional (Months 4–6)
🎯 Introduce: • Jumping
• Sprinting
• Deceleration
• Agility drills
📌 Targets: • Strength + hop tests ≥ 85% LSI
💡 Focus: Power + sport movement prep
🔹 Phase 5: Return to Sport (Months 6–12)
🎯 Sport-specific conditioning & drills
📌 Clearance criteria: ✅ No pain or swelling
✅ Quad + hop tests ≥ 90% LSI
✅ Psychological readiness (confidence & low fear)
💡 Focus: Performance + safety
📃 Key Takeaway
🚫 Don’t rush timelines
✔️ Follow criteria-based milestones
Because: Strength + symmetry + confidence = lower reinjury risk
