The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is an important component of the knee that helps to stabilize the knee joint. A twisting of the joint, hyperextension of the knee or forward movement of the tibia on the femur can cause a tearing of the ligament. Physical therapy will consist of rehabilitation exercises meant to rebuild strength in the knee joint.
Knee Bend to Straighten
Begin this exercise by lying on your back with your arms at your sides. Slowly bend the knee of the injured ACL by sliding the foot towards your buttocks. You should aim to get a moderate stretch and should stop sliding your foot towards the buttocks when it causes discomfort. Slide your foot back away from the body until it is once again lying flat. Perform this exercise several times up until your leg begins to feel fatigued.
Static Quad Sets
Sit on a flat surface with your back straight and legs lying flat in front of you. Roll up a towel, and place it underneath the knee of your injured leg. Gently push the back of your knee downwards into the towel. Tighten your quadriceps muscles as you attempt to flatten your leg. Hold this position for five seconds, then release pressure and rest for two seconds. Repeat this exercise up to 10 times.
Calf Raises
Use an exercise step or a raised surface such as a step to complete this exercise. Place the front half of both feet onto the surface, and slowly raise your body by flexing your calf muscles. Be sure to keep the feet straight, and slowly lower yourself back down to the starting point. Perform as many repetitions of this exercises as you can two to three times a day.
Quarter Squats
Spread your feet shoulder-width apart, and place both of your hands onto your hips for balance. Carefully lower yourself, and squat down to a quarter of a full squat before returning to the standing position. Perform up to three sets of 10 to 20 repetitions of this exercise. Progress through quarter squats to half squats and finally full squats. Increase the intensity by holding dumbbells by your sides. Be sure to keep your back straight and stomach tight during this movement.
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