Rebuilding the ACL
Whether conservative (non-operative) or post-surgical, an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) protocol dictates the future of your knee. We do not guess when it is safe to run or jump; we test. Our 9-month criteria-driven program guarantees that every phase of healing is maximized.
Early Goals (Weeks 1-6)
- Complete Extension: Restoring hyper-extension equal to the uninjured leg is the absolute priority to secure a functional gait.
- Quadriceps Firing: Reversing arthrogenic muscle inhibition to get the vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) contracting strongly.
- Effusion Control: Aggressive management of joint swelling.
The Protocol Breakdown
Phase 1: Recovery & Activation
Focusing on crutch weaning, normalizing the walking pattern, and isolated, strictly controlled muscular activation of the hamstrings and quadriceps.
Phase 2: Hypertrophy & Strength
Unilateral and bilateral heavy resistance training. We aim for greater than 80% Limb Symmetry Index (LSI) before allowing progression to running or bounding.
Phase 3: Plyometrics & Return To Sport
Multi-planar decelerations, cutting mechanics, and reactive agility. We test landing forces and psychological readiness rigorously.