3 Essential Things You Need to Assess in Your ACL Rehab
WRITTEN BY
Henry Davies
24-4-2024
Embarking on an ACL rehab journey can be daunting, yet crucial for a successful recovery. Understanding the key assessments can really make a difference. Between a smooth progression towards your goals, or potential setbacks. 



By mastering these assessments, you empower yourself with the knowledge to gauge progress. You can prevent future injuries, and regain optimal function. 

Unfortunately, many overlook these crucial assessments. This can lead to prolonged recovery times and increased risk of re-injury.

Why So Many Struggle: Common Roadblocks to Effective ACL Rehab

- Lack of awareness about the importance of assessments

- Misunderstanding of how to perform the assessments accurately

- Failure to track progress consistently

- Fear of facing potential setbacks

- Overemphasis on exercises without proper evaluation

Hopeful Note: Fear not! By the end of this post, you'll have a clear roadmap to navigate these obstacles. Plus, emerge stronger than ever from your ACL rehab journey.

Step 1: Assess Knee Extension Range of Motion

To ensure optimal recovery, begin by assessing your knee extension range of motion. This step is crucial as limited extension can hinder your rehab. Without full extension, you'll always be on the back foot. Start by lying flat on your back and straightening your leg, aiming for full extension. Measure the angle between your thigh and the surface. If you're struggling, seek guidance from a qualified professional to address any limitations. By prioritizing knee extension, you will have smoother progress and improved function.

Step 2: Assess Quadricep Strength

One common pitfall in ACL rehab is neglecting quadricep strength assessment. Weakness in this muscle group affects knee stability. It is also a predictor of future injury. Many individuals fail to strengthen their quadriceps, leading to imbalances and potential setbacks. To avoid this, use exercises such as leg presses, squats, and lunges in your rehab. Focus on progressive overload. And ensure proper form to maximize gains and reduce the risk of reinjury.

Step 3: Assess Asymmetry Between Limbs

The ultimate goal of ACL rehab is to restore symmetry. This is the difference in strength between your injured and uninjured limbs. This is key to a successful ACL rehab. By  addressing any imbalances between limbs, you set yourself up for better outcomes. And a sustainable recovery in the long term! Celebrate the progress, no matter how small. Each step brings you closer to reclaiming your strength and mobility.

Conclusion:

In summary, mastering these three assessments is key. Knee extension range of motion, quadricep strength, and limb asymmetry. By understanding their importance and assessing them, you pave the way for a smoother recovery. Remember, consistency and patience are key. Stay committed to the process, and you'll emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.

Next Steps:

Watch our free ACL masterclass to discover our 3 step system for getting you back to sport post ACL
 
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AUTHOR
Henry Davies
Henry is the founder of Integrate Sports. He is a UKSCA accredited practitioner with over 10 years’ experience working with high performing athletes. He has worked with Olympic medallists and prepared athletes for Tokyo 2020 in his role with the English Institute of Sport. Henry is a Lecturer in Strength and Conditioning at Hartpury University, and the Head of Strength and Conditioning at Hockey Wales.
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