RESTORING KNEE EXTENSION AFTER ACL RECONSTRUCTION – WHY EARLY INTERVENTION IS ESSENTIAL

After anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery, regaining full knee extension (0 degrees) is a key factor that determines long-term knee function and gait.

However, if by the fourth week after surgery the patient still experiences a 5-degree extension loss, it is a warning sign indicating a high risk of arthrofibrosis (scar tissue formation around the joint). If not addressed promptly, this condition can severely limit range of motion, negatively impact gait, and significantly reduce quality of life.

Therefore, early intervention with a structured, scientifically designed rehabilitation program is essential to quickly restore knee extension and prevent joint adhesions.

At HandsViet, we apply an intensive rehabilitation protocol to fully restore knee extension after ACL surgery, including:

1. Passive Knee Extension

   • Place a towel under the heel while lying down to allow gravity to assist natural knee extension.

   • Prone hang: Lie face down with the leg hanging freely off the edge of the bed, maintain the position 2–3 times a day.

2. Soft Tissue Massage Around the Knee

   • Soften tissues surrounding the knee, limit scar tissue formation, promote blood circulation, and increase flexibility.

3. Hamstring Stretching

   • Tight hamstrings can restrict extension; therefore, gentle daily stretching is needed to support recovery.

4. End-Range Control Exercises

   • Press the knee down onto a small ball or rolled towel under the knee, activating the quadriceps and reinforcing end-range motion.

5. Quadriceps Strengthening

   • Exercises like quad sets, straight leg raises, or isometric workouts help strengthen the thigh muscles and stabilize the knee joint.

6. Close Monitoring of Progress

   • If there is no improvement after 2–3 weeks of proper rehabilitation, a specialized evaluation is necessary to rule out joint adhesion and provide timely intervention.

What Sets HandsViet Apart in ACL Rehabilitation

1. Expertise – “Solid Medical Foundation, Accurate Therapy”

• • Our physiotherapy team is highly experienced and professionally trained at prestigious specialized institutions.

  • We combine advanced manual therapy techniques with up-to-date medical knowledge.

  • Rehabilitation programs are personalized for each client, especially for sports-related cases like ACL injuries, herniated discs, shoulder and neck pain, and more.

2. Process – “Scientific, Effective, Transparent”

• • Comprehensive pre-treatment assessment: Evaluation of range of motion, muscle strength, posture, and related risk factors.

  • Clear, individualized treatment plans tailored to each stage of recovery, avoiding “one-size-fits-all” approaches.

  • Close monitoring and adjustment of exercises and techniques as needed to optimize recovery outcomes.

3. Experience – “Friendly – Professional – Attentive”

• • A quiet, clean, private therapy environment designed like a “rehabilitation studio.”

  • Staff members carefully guide each step and explain the purpose behind every movement to help clients better understand their bodies.

  • A long-term partnership commitment: No pressure for prolonged treatment, no hidden costs.

HandsViet is not just about physical recovery; we help you truly understand your body, move confidently, and prevent future relapses.

With a solid medical foundation, advanced techniques, and a heartfelt dedication to every stage of recovery, we are committed to delivering sustainable treatment results and the most complete rehabilitation experience.

👉 If you or your loved one is struggling after ACL surgery, contact HandsViet today for a consultation and to build a specialized, scientifically-backed rehabilitation program!

Author: Therapist – Tran Thi Thuy Tra