ACL Rehab: What to Expect From Physiotherapy Post-Surgery

Recovering from ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery can feel like a long road—but with the right physiotherapy support, it’s a journey that leads back to strength, confidence, and mobility. Whether you’re an athlete eager to return to sport or someone looking to get back to daily activities pain-free, understanding what to expect during ACL rehab is key to a successful recovery.

Why Physiotherapy Matters After ACL Surgery

The ACL is a key stabilising ligament in your knee, and after surgical reconstruction, your body needs time—and guided rehab—to heal properly. Post-surgical physiotherapy doesn’t just focus on the knee itself; it works to restore strength, balance, coordination, and full-body movement patterns. A structured rehabilitation programme led by a chartered physiotherapist in Galway is essential for long-term knee health and injury prevention.

The Early Days: Phase 1 (Weeks 0–2)

Goals:

• Manage pain and swelling

• Protect the surgical site

• Begin gentle movement

In the first couple of weeks, your physiotherapist will help you focus on reducing inflammation and regaining some movement in the knee. You’ll likely use crutches at this stage, and exercises will be light, aiming to improve circulation and gently reintroduce knee motion. You might also receive manual therapy to support flexibility and reduce stiffness.

Common early rehab exercises include:

• Heel slides

• Quad sets

• Ankle pumps

Ice therapy, compression, and elevation are often part of the plan to control swelling.

Rebuilding Strength and Mobility: Phase 2 (Weeks 2–6)

Goals:

• Increase range of motion

• Start weight-bearing

• Begin muscle strengthening

This phase introduces more structured rehab. With your physiotherapist’s guidance, you’ll begin to walk more confidently and start basic strengthening exercises. Think bodyweight squats, balance drills, and low-impact stationary cycling.

The physiotherapy sessions during this stage focus on re-educating the muscles, especially the quads and hamstrings, which often weaken after surgery. You’ll also work on knee control to prevent re-injury down the line.

Preparing for Daily Life and Sport: Phase 3 (Weeks 6–12)

Goals:

• Advance strength training

• Improve stability and coordination

• Begin light functional activities

Your rehabilitation clinic in Galway will help you transition from basic rehab to more dynamic movements. Plyometrics (like hopping or jumping), resistance training, and proprioceptive (balance) work may be introduced here, depending on your progress.

Your therapist may simulate sport-specific movements if you're planning to return to a sport. For non-athletes, rehab will be tailored toward real-life functional movements like stairs, lifting, or even walking long distances comfortably.

Return to Sport or Full Activity: Phase 4 (3–6+ Months)

Goals:

• Restore high-level function

• Ensure safe return to sport

• Prevent re-injury

Once you’ve regained adequate strength, stability, and confidence, your physiotherapist will conduct functional testing to determine if you’re ready for higher-impact activities. This might include single-leg hop tests, agility drills, and reaction-based exercises.

For athletes, this phase focuses on getting back to sport safely with proper biomechanics and movement control. For others, it's about returning to an active lifestyle without fear or discomfort.

The Role of Your Physiotherapist

A chartered physiotherapist in Galway plays a central role in ACL rehab—not just guiding exercises but monitoring your progress, adjusting your plan as needed, and helping you stay motivated. Each phase of rehab is individualised, based on your goals, healing rate, and any pre-existing conditions.

Consistent, evidence-based physio is proven to improve outcomes post-surgery, reduce risk of re-injury, and help you get back to doing what you love.

Final Thoughts: Your ACL Rehab Journey

ACL rehabilitation is a structured, multi-phase process that takes time—but every stage brings you closer to full recovery. With expert guidance from a physiotherapy team, a tailored plan, and your own commitment, you’ll build the strength and confidence needed to move freely again.

If you've recently had ACL surgery or are planning for it, don't underestimate the power of focused rehab. Start your recovery journey with a trusted physiotherapist in Galway City and set yourself up for success.