ACL 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
0-2 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full in Brace w/ use of crutches for balance and stability.
BRACE
Brace to be worn at all times day and night.**
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. Side-lying hip/core.
PHASE TWO
2-6 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full
BRACE
Discontinue when no extensor lag and with approval of the therapist.
RANGE OF MOTION
Full
EXERCISES
Begin closed chain quads, balance exercises, hamstring curls, stationary bike, step-ups, front and side planks; advance hip/core. Begin proprioceptive training.
PHASE THREE
6-12 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full
BRACE
None
RANGE OF MOTION
Full
EXERCISES
Advance closed chain strengthening, progress from bilateral to unilateral strengthening and proprioception. Begin elliptical at 12 weeks.
PHASE FOUR
12-16 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full
BRACE
None
RANGE OF MOTION
Full
EXERCISES
Continue to progress closed chain exercises.
PHASE FIVE
16-24 WEEKS
WEIGHT BEARING
Full
BRACE
None
RANGE OF MOTION
Full and pain-free.
EXERCISES
20 weeks: Begin straight line running.
24 weeks: Begin plyometric drills, when appropriate (tolerates running well) progress plyometric drills from bilateral to unilateral.
6 months: Advance running to sprinting, backward running, cutting/pivoting/changing direction, initiate sport-specific drills. Return to sport criteria and FSA completed***.
