Rehabilitation Techniques after Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction the Indian Approach

Evolution of rehabilitation techniques after ACL reconstruction has been one of the principal reasons for the success of this procedure. Protocols are goal oriented, with finely tuned timing of interventions, and the main challenge is prevention of complications. The ideal rehabilitation protocol is started before surgery (prehabilitation), and appropriately timed interventions are the keys to early successful return to full activities. The special considerations for rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction are pain and stiffness control, regaining range of movement, graduated weight bearing, preventing muscle atrophy prevention, kinetic chain exercises, regaining proprioception, functional movements and agility work. Some issues related to cost, brace availability, patient education and physiotherapy expertise lack may be factors that influence outcomes in Indian patients.