ACL Reconstruction (Sports) Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for acl reconstruction (sports): what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Return to Play Criteria
- •Full range of motion
- •Strength at 90%+ of the uninjured side
- •Sport-specific movements completed without pain or hesitation
- •Cleared by your sports medicine provider
ACL Reconstruction (Sports) recovery, day by day
RICE Protocol
- Rest: avoid activities that stress the injury
- Ice: 20 min on, at least 20 min off, 4-6 times daily
- Compression: elastic bandage or sleeve as directed
- Elevation: raise the injured area above heart level
Pain Management
- Take anti-inflammatory medication as prescribed
- Avoid heat for the first 48-72 hours (ice only)
- Crutches, sling, or brace as provided; use as directed
- Do NOT 'push through' pain; this delays healing
Rehabilitation Begins
- Begin prescribed exercises as directed by your sports medicine team
- Progress through rehabilitation phases; do not skip ahead
- Cross-train with low-impact activities when cleared (swimming, cycling, etc.)
- Pain should be your guide; mild discomfort during exercises is OK, sharp pain is not
Return to Sport Protocol
- Sport-specific exercises and drills begin when cleared
- Gradual progression: practice > non-contact drills > contact > full participation
- Must meet return-to-sport criteria before competing
- Use protective equipment (braces, taping) as recommended
When to call your provider or 911
- •Joint locks or gives way completely
- •Significant increase in swelling after exercise
- •Numbness or tingling that doesn't resolve
- •Pain that is worse each day instead of gradually improving
- •Inability to bear weight (if you should be able to)
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 5
Acute phase resolves
Swelling and acute pain controlled
- Day 36
Functional exercises
Performing rehab exercises with good form and minimal pain
- Day 68
Sport-specific training
Cleared for sport-specific drills and graduated return
- Day 90
Expected return to full activity
Meets all return-to-sport criteria
For clinics
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