Return to sports after ACL reconstruction surgery

This is an important topic for athletes and active individuals who have undergone ACL reconstruction surgery.

Returning to sports after ACL reconstruction surgery involves several stages, including rehabilitation, strength training, and gradual reintroduction to sports-specific activities. The timeline for returning to sports can vary depending on the individual’s progress and the type of sport they are returning to.

Generally, in my practice, provided that the recovery is as expected, I allow my patients to return to swimming and golf at around 6-8 weeks, running and cycling at around 3 months, racquet sports and cricket at around 4-6 months and contact sports (like football, rugby) at around 6 months.

General Rehabilitation Stages:

Immediate Post-Surgery Phase:

Focus on reducing swelling and pain.
Begin gentle range-of-motion exercises.
Use of crutches and brace as needed.

Early Rehabilitation Phase:

Gradual increase in range-of-motion exercises.
Start strengthening exercises for the quadriceps and hamstrings.
Begin weight-bearing activities as tolerated.

Intermediate Rehabilitation Phase:

Continue strengthening exercises with increased intensity.
Incorporate balance and proprioception exercises.
Start low-impact cardiovascular exercises like cycling or swimming.

Advanced Rehabilitation Phase:

Focus on sport-specific drills and exercises.
Increase intensity and duration of strength and conditioning workouts.
Gradual reintroduction to running and agility drills.

Return to Sport Phase:

Full participation in sport-specific activities.
Ensure proper technique and movement patterns.
Monitor for any signs of discomfort or instability.

any issues with your ACL reconstruction surgery, reach out to us and let us help you with your issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long after ACL surgery can I return to sports?

Most patients who undergo a cruciate ligament reconstruction eventually return to their sport between 6–12 months post-surgery, depending on how well they progress through rehabilitation, and their knee strength and stability. It is vital to obtain clearance from our specialist at Lancashire Hip & Knee Clinic before returning to high-impact activities.

2. What percentage of ACL reconstruction patients return to sport?

According to studies, approximately 65–80% of ACl reconstruction patients returned to some level of sport and approximately 55% returned to competitive sports. The success rates are influenced by the rehab process, mental readiness of the participants and sport-specific demands.

3. What’s the criteria for an ACL patient to return back to sport?

Return-to-sport guidelines require restored knee strength and stability, less swelling, full range of motion, passing functional tests, and mental readiness. A health care professional needs to clear them before returning to minimize the risk of reinjury.

4. What is the shortest ACL recovery time?

The smallest amount of recovery time will normally be around 6 months; however this is rare. Most athletes 9-12 months of full recovery time. If you return too early to sport, there is a significantly higher chance of reinjury.

5. Does ACL ever fully recover?

If there is proper surgery and rehabilitation, many ACL patients achieve full function. Others may have long-term functional limitations due to stiffness or instability, and the risk of osteoarthritis is increased. Full recovery varies by individual factors and post-operative management.

6. Which sport has more ACL injuries?

Sports that involve quick stops, jumps, direction change and pivoting, including soccer, basketball, and football-associated many of the highest ACL injury rates. Female athletes have been reported to be at the highest risk because of biomechanical and hormonal considerations influencing dynamic measures of landing and cutting.