ACL Research & Rehabilitation

ACL Reconstruction Rehabilitation Protocal

One of the most common complications following ACL reconstruction is loss of motion, especially loss of extension. Loss of knee extension has been shown to result in a limp, quadriceps muscle weakness, and anterior knee pain. Studies have demonstrated that the timing of ACL surgery has a significant influence on the development of postoperative knee stiffness.

THE HIGHEST INCIDENCE OF KNEE STIFFNESS OCCURS IF ACL SURGERY IS
PERFORMED WHEN THE KNEE IS SWOLLEN, PAINFUL, AND HAS A LIMITED
RANGE OF MOTION.

The risk of developing a stiff knee after surgery can be significantly reduced if the surgery is delayed until the acute inflammatory phase has passed, the swelling has subsided, a normal or near normal range of motion (especially extension) has been obtained, and a normal gait pattern has been reestablished.