ACL RECONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES
The information below is meant as a guideline only. The professional skills of a therapist must come into play for each individual patient.
Dr. Ben Robinson
PHASE ONE
0-2 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full in Brace with use of crutches for balance and stability.
BRACE
Brace to be worn at all times day and night. **
ROM
As tolerated.
EXERCISES
Heel slides, quad and hamstring sets, patellar mobs, gastroc and soleus stretch. SLR with brace in full extension until quad strength prevents extension lag. Side-lying hip and core.
Phase Two
2-6 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full
BRACE
Discontinue when no extensor lag and with approval of the therapist.
ROM
Full
EXERCISES
Begin closed chain quads, balance exercises, hamstring curls, stationary bike, step-ups, front and side planks; advance hip and core exercises. Begin proprioceptive training.
Phase Three
6-12 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full
BRACE
None
ROM
Full
EXERCISES
Advance closed chain strengthening, progress from bilateral to unilateral strengthening and proprioception. Begin elliptical if not already started.
Phase four
12-16 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full
BRACE
None
ROM
Full
EXERCISES
12 weeks: Begin straight line running.
22 weeks: Advance as tolerated
FSA completed at 22 wks***
Phase Five
16-24 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full
BRACE
None
ROM
Full + pain-free.
EXERCISES
16 weeks: Begin plyometric drills, when appropriate progress plyometric drills from bilateral to unilateral.
20 weeks: Advance running to sprinting, backward running, cutting, pivoting, changing direction, initiate sport-specific drills. Return to sport criteria.
