ACL Injury: Recovery Timeline and What to Expect

What is an ACL Injury?

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of the key ligaments stabilising the knee. ACL tears are common in sports involving jumping, cutting, and pivoting.

Phases of Recovery

Phase 1: Acute Phase (0-2 weeks)

Pain management, swelling control, gentle range of motion. RICE protocol essential.

Phase 2: Rehabilitation (2-12 weeks)

Progressive strengthening of quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip musculature. Proprioception training begins.

Phase 3: Neuromuscular Training (3-6 months)

Sport-specific movement patterns, agility training, graduated running program.

Phase 4: Return to Sport (6-9 months)

Full sports training, subject to passing a comprehensive return-to-sport test battery.