Abstract

Rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is critical to restore knee function, prevent re injury, and enable return to sport. Differences arise when meniscal surgery is concurrently performed vs. pure ACL reconstruction, especially with respect to weight bearing, range of motion, and progression of strength and functional tasks. Here, we present two cases: (1) a 28 year old footballer undergoing ACL reconstruction plus medial meniscus repair, and (2) a 24 year old athlete with isolated ACL reconstruction. We detail their surgical interventions, rehabilitation protocols, outcomes, and compare to literature to draw lessons for practice.

Keywords

rehabilitation, sports injury, return to sport, functional recovery, physiotherapy, ACL