ACL Reconstruction

The following information is meant to be used as a rehabilitative guideline for people who have had an ACL reconstruction. The information is based on the protocol used at the University of Calgary Sport Medicine Centre. The University of Calgary does not take responsibility for how you use this information. You will want to review this material with your medical advisers or rehabilitation professionals. The material provided within this site is designed for educational purposes only and is not warranted to be accurate.

The University of Calgary Sport Medicine Centre sees over 700 patients per year who have suffered from Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries. This type of injury is especially common in those who play sports that involve a lot of twisting and quick changes in direction, such as soccer, skiing and basketball. Just because you have suffered from an ACL injury doesn't mean that you have to give up your participation in sport. There have been many athletes who have successfully returned to sport after reconstructive surgery.

When you initially visit your physician or therapist you will go though a series of tests similar to the 'Lachman' test depicted above. These are tests which help your physician or therapist assess the amount of damage that may be involved in the knee and surrounding structures.