ACL Rehabilitation

From Injury to Recovery

An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury can be a daunting experience, especially for athletes and active individuals. Whether sustained on the sports field or through everyday activities, an ACL tear often feels like it brings everything to a grinding halt. But the road to recovery doesn’t have to be confusing or overwhelming. With the right ACL rehabilitation plan, guided by physiotherapists and exercise physiologist, you can return to your full potential, stronger, more confident, and more resilient than before.

Here’s a breakdown of the key stages of ACL rehabilitation and what you can expect along the way.

Stage 1: Acute Recovery. Managing Pain and Swelling

Timeframe: 0–2 weeks post-injury or surgery

In the early phase, the focus is on controlling pain and inflammation, restoring knee extension, and beginning gentle movement.

Goals:

• Reduce swelling and pain

• Regain knee extension and gentle range of motion

• Start activating the quadriceps

• Protect the healing tissue

What we do:
Your physiotherapist will guide you through ice therapy, gentle range of motion exercises, and safe weight-bearing as tolerated. Bracing and crutches may be used in the early days to support stability and comfort.

Stage 2: Early Rehabilitation. Regaining Mobility and Strength

Timeframe: 2–6 weeks

Once swelling subsides, it’s time to rebuild foundational strength and movement patterns.

Goals:

• Improve knee flexion and extension

• Begin weight-bearing exercises

• Start rebuilding quadriceps, hamstring, and glute strength

• Improve gait mechanics

What we do:
Structured exercises target specific muscle groups while maintaining joint integrity. Physiotherapists and exercise physiologists collaborate to gradually progress you toward more functional movement.

Stage 3: Strength and Neuromuscular Control

Timeframe: 6–12 weeks

This phase lays the groundwork for long-term stability and performance.

Goals:

• Restore full knee range of motion

• Increase muscle strength and endurance

• Improve balance and proprioception

• Begin low-impact functional exercises

What we do:
You’ll be introduced to more dynamic exercises such as step-ups, resistance training, and balance drills to promote control and coordination. Progress is closely monitored to avoid overloading the knee too early.

Stage 4: Advanced Strengthening and Functional Training

Timeframe: 3–6 months

With a solid foundation in place, rehab becomes more tailored to the individual’s sport or lifestyle demands.

Goals:

• Enhance power and agility

• Rebuild confidence with sport-specific movements

• Reduce risk of re-injury

What we do:
High-level rehab includes agility drills, plyometrics, and controlled pivoting and cutting movements. Exercise professionals work alongside you to simulate the physical demands of your sport or daily routine.

Stage 5: Return to Sport or Full Activity

Timeframe: 6+ months (often 9–12 months for return to competitive sport)

You’re almost there! Before returning to full activity, you’ll need to meet specific strength, performance, and psychological readiness criteria.

Goals:

• Safely transition back to sport or demanding activities

• Maintain long-term joint health and strength

• Continue injury prevention strategies

What we do:
Comprehensive testing ensures your knee is ready for high-level performance. Maintenance programs and ongoing support are offered to keep you moving confidently and safely.

Get The Best Rehabilitation

ACL rehab is not just about healing—it’s about rebuilding. At our physiotherapy and exercise clinic, we combine clinical expertise, evidence-based protocols, and personalised care to support your full recovery journey. Whether you’re an elite athlete or someone who simply wants to return to an active lifestyle, we’re here to help you move better, feel stronger, and get back to doing what you love.

Get the best rehabilitation and reach out to Pivotal Motion Physiotherapy, we’re here to help you feel your best and return to sport with confidence. Get in touch with us today, and our team will be able to discuss with you in more depth on how we can help you. Book online or call us on 3352 5116.