Burwood NSW · ACL Reconstruction Rehabilitation
ACL reconstruction rehabilitation is one of the longest and most demanding in sports medicine — requiring 9–12 months of expert physiotherapy for a safe return to sport at full performance.
Our ACL rehabilitation program uses evidence-based, criteria-based progression through every phase — from the early post-op days through to running, jumping, and return to sport — with no shortcuts.
How We Treat This Condition
Evidence-based treatment tailored to your specific presentation and goals.
Early Phase (Weeks 1–6)
Reduce swelling, restore knee extension, achieve quadriceps activation, and progress to full weight-bearing with normal gait pattern.
Learn more →Strengthening Phase (Weeks 6–16)
Progressive quadriceps, hamstring, and glute strengthening — building the foundation of muscle support around the reconstructed ACL.
Learn more →Running Return (Months 4–6)
Criteria-based return to straight-line running — only when quadriceps symmetry is above 70% on testing.
Learn more →Agility & Plyometrics (Months 6–9)
Multidirectional movement, jumping, landing mechanics, and deceleration training — reducing the ACL re-injury risk significantly.
Learn more →Return-to-Sport Testing (Month 9+)
Battery of objective tests including isokinetic strength symmetry, hop tests, and psychological readiness before full sport clearance.
Learn more →Return to Competition
Graduated return from training to full-contact sport — the final stage most clinics rush, increasing re-injury risk significantly.
Learn more →When to Start ACL Rehabilitation
ACL rehabilitation typically begins within the first week after surgery under your surgeon’s protocol, and pre-habilitation before surgery is also valuable if you have time to prepare. See a physiotherapist promptly if you’re experiencing ongoing swelling, limited range of motion, or feel your knee is unstable during daily activities.
What Happens at Your First Appointment?
Full Assessment
Detailed history, movement analysis and clinical tests to identify the root cause of your problem.
Diagnosis & Plan
We explain exactly what is going on and create a realistic, goal-focused treatment timeline.
Hands-On Treatment
Most patients receive treatment in their first session — manual therapy, needling, or exercise prescription.
Home Program
You leave with clear exercises and self-management strategies to accelerate your recovery.
Why Choose Burwood Physio?
- AHPRA-registered physiotherapists
- Same-day and next-day appointments available
- HICAPS on-site — claim health fund rebate instantly
- Medicare bulk billing with GP CDM plan
- NDIS registered provider
- WorkCover and icare accepted
- Evidence-based treatment — no unnecessary sessions
- 2 minutes walk from Burwood Station
📍 Located in Burwood: Shop 2, 36–38 Victoria St East, Burwood NSW 2134. 2 min from Burwood Station. Open Mon–Sat.
Related Services
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does ACL rehab take?
Evidence-based ACL rehabilitation takes 9–12 months minimum for return to sport. Returning earlier significantly increases re-injury risk.
When can I start running after ACL reconstruction?
Straight-line running is typically introduced at 4–6 months, but only when specific strength criteria are met — not just based on time.
What is the re-injury rate after ACL reconstruction?
Return to sport before 9 months increases re-injury risk by 4–6 times. Proper rehabilitation significantly reduces this risk.
Can Burwood Physio see me the week after surgery?
Yes. We accept post-surgical referrals and begin rehabilitation in the first week after surgery in coordination with your surgeon.
Is ACL prehab worth doing before surgery?
Absolutely. Patients with good pre-operative quadriceps strength and mobility consistently achieve significantly better post-operative outcomes.
What does ACL rehabilitation involve at Burwood Physio?
Rehabilitation follows a structured, criteria-based program progressing through swelling and range of motion control, strength building, and sport-specific training, with objective testing before clearing return to sport.
Do I need a brace after ACL reconstruction?
This depends on your surgeon’s protocol and the specific graft and any associated procedures. We coordinate closely with your surgical team on bracing and weight-bearing guidelines.
What is the difference between ACL reconstruction and conservative management?
Reconstruction rebuilds the ligament surgically and is typically recommended for athletes returning to pivoting sports. Conservative management with intensive physiotherapy can be appropriate for less active individuals or specific injury patterns.
Can I injure my other knee during ACL rehab?
Yes, this is a recognised risk — the uninjured knee takes on extra load during recovery. Our rehab programs include bilateral strength and control work to reduce this risk.
What tests determine if I am ready to return to sport after ACL surgery?
We use objective criteria including strength symmetry testing, hop tests, and movement quality assessment — not just time since surgery — to determine readiness for return to sport.
ACL surgery ahead or just completed?
Start your ACL rehabilitation with experienced physiotherapists. Book today.