Tears to the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, are common in sports today, often occurring when you have to plant your foot and change directions quickly, according to USGyms website. These injuries can be effectively repaired surgically, but patients must perform rehabilitative exercises in order to return to their former condition. Consult with your doctor or physical therapist before embarking on any rehabilitative exercise program.
Passive Knee Stretch
This exercise is commonly prescribed by doctors immediately after surgery, and uses the force of gravity to fully extend an injured knee. It is performed by sitting on a bench or table with your injured leg fully extended. Place a rolled-up towel or other soft support under the heel of your injured leg and relax the knee to allow gravity to help fully extend your leg. This position should be held for three to five minutes, according to the website.
Mini Wall Squats
Mini wall squats are generally prescribed a couple of weeks after surgery, and are designed to help your knee strength return. Stand with your back touching a wall for support, and slowly bend both knees until they are at a 45-degree angle. Hold this position for a second and slowly return to the standing position using a controlled motion. Your physical therapist may ask you to use only your injured leg to perform this exercise, according to the ACL reconstruction page at eHealthMD.com.
Heel Slides
This exercise is a recommended rehabilitative protocol by the Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine and Athletic Trauma. It is performed by sitting or lying on a bench or table with both legs extended fully. Slowly bend your injured knee, sliding the heel of your foot along the surface of the table until you have bent your knee as far as you can. Pause for a second, then slowly straighten your leg by sliding your heel down the table until your knee is fully extended. Specialists at the Nicholas Institute note that if necessary, you can use the foot of your noninjured leg to assist your injured leg in performing this exercise.
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