Post-Surgical ACL Reconstruction Rehabilitation Schedule
Weeks 1-2:
Weeks 3-6:
As motion increases, emphasis is shifted to strengtheningWeeks 7-12:
Toward the end of this phase, some athletes can begin shuttle runs, lateral shuttles and jumping rope.
Months 4-7:
Continued progression with sports specific activities. This phase of rehabilitation is often the most difficult, because patients may have a knee that "feels" normal, but is not ready for the stresses of some sport activities. Emphasis of rehabilitation should be on sport simulating activities.
Weightbearing Status
Return to Sports:
Deciding when to return to unrestricted sports activities depends on a number of factors:
Functional Progression
The decision to return to sports must be based on each individual's progression through their therapy.
Graft Type
Some surgeons may delay return to sports if the graft used came from a donor. These grafts are sterilized and frozen, there is a belief that they take longer to heal well inside the patient.
*Based upon these guidelines, which differ from surgeon to surgeon, it is apparent that progression is slow, and return to sport and activity is 7 months, at a MINIMUM.