ACL Hamstring Autograft Reconstruction
The information below is meant as a guideline only. The professional skills of a therapist must come into play for each individual patient.
Dr. Chris Evensen
PHASE ONE
0-4 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
As tolerated with crutches*
BRACE
0-1 week: Locked in full extension for ambulation and sleeping
1-4 weeks: Unlocked for ambulation, remove for sleeping**
RANGE OF MOTION
As tolerated
EXERCISES
Heel slides, quad/hamstring sets, patellar mobs, gastroc/soleus stretch
SLR w/ brace in full extension until quad strength prevents extension lag
PHASE TWO
4-12 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full, progressing to normal gait pattern
BRACE
Discontinue at day 28 if patient has no extension lag
RANGE OF MOTION
Maintain full extension and progressive flexion
EXERCISES
Progress Phase I
Begin toe raises, closed chain quads, balance exercises, hamstring curls, stationary bike, step-ups, front and side planks, hip/glute/core, pool
PHASE THREE
12-16 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full, without use of crutches and with a normalized gait pattern
BRACE
None
RANGE OF MOTION
Gain full and pain-free
EXERCISES
Advance closed chain strengthening, progress proprioception activities
Begin stairmaster, elliptical
PHASE FOUR
16-24 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full
BRACE
None
RANGE OF MOTION
Full and pain-free
EXERCISES
16 wks: Begin jumping and running in straight line
24 wks: Advance running to sprinting, backward running, cutting/pivoting/changing direction, initiate plyometric program and sport-specific drills
PHASE FIVE
> 6 MONTHS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full
BRACE
None
RANGE OF MOTION
Full and pain-free.
EXERCISES
Gradual return to sports participation after completion of FSA***
Maintenance program based on FSA
