ACL rehab protocols used in Nepal are generally done after the ACLR ( Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstrution ) surgery and this phyio rehabilitation are generally the same evidence-based, phase-wise protocols used worldwid
THe steps and the rehabiliation protocoal are adapted by physiotherapists depending on your surgeon, graft type, and access to rehab facilities as per need.
Hereβs a clear, practical ACL rehabilitation protocol (used in most Nepali physio rehabiliation centers and phyisotherapy clinics too):
𦡠ACL Rehab Protocol (Step-by-step)
πΉ Phase 1: Immediate Post-op (0β2 weeks) Physio Rehab
Goals: To reduce swelling, regain knee extension, activate muscles
What you have to do:
- RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
- Knee brace + crutches (as advised)
- Gentle exercises:
- Quadriceps sets
- Straight leg raises
- Heel slides
- Try to achieve:
- Full knee extension
- ~70β90Β° flexion
π Early motion + weight bearing (as tolerated) is encouraged to avoid stiffness
πΉ Phase 2: Early Rehab (2β6 weeks) Phyiso
Goals: TO improve ROM, start strength, normalize walking
Core Exercises:
- Stationary cycling
- Closed-chain exercises (mini squats, step-ups)
- Balance training
- Gradually stop crutches and
- Partial weight bearing followed by full weight bearing
π By ~6 weeks: YOu have to Aim for near full ROM and normal gait
πΉ Phase 3: Strength & Control (6β12 weeks) Phyiso Rehab
Goals: To build muscle strength + stability of the Join
Core Exercises:
- Leg press, lunges
- Hamstring curls
- Core & hip strengthening
- Proprioception (balance boards)
π Focus shifts to endurance and neuromuscular control
πΉ Phase 4: Advanced Training (3β6 months)
Goals: prepare for running & sports
Core Exercises:
- Jogging β running progression
- Plyometrics (jumping drills)
- Agility drills
π Running starts only when:
- Full ROM
- No swelling
- Strength β₯ ~80% of other leg
πΉ Phase 5: Return to Sport (6β9+ months) Phyiso
Goals: safe return without re-injury
Criteria:
- Strength symmetry (β₯90β95%)
- Good balance & hop tests
- No pain/swelling
π Aftere completion of all the rehab phyiso for post ACLR Most athletes return around 6β9 months (sometimes up to 12 months)
β οΈ Important Advice
- Rehab is criteria-based, not just time-based
- Donβt rush phases β increases re-tear risk
- Consistency matters more than intensity
- Always follow your surgeon + physio plan
𦡠ACL Rehab Protocol (Table Format)
| Phase | Timeline | Goals | Key Exercises / Activities | Criteria to Progress |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1: Immediate Post-op | 0β2 weeks | – Reduce swelling – Restore full extension – Activate quadriceps | – RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) – Quad sets – Straight leg raises – Heel slides – Ankle pumps | – Minimal swelling – Full knee extension – Flexion ~70β90Β° – Good quad activation |
| Phase 2: Early Rehab | 2β6 weeks | – Improve ROM – Normalize walking – Begin strength | – Stationary cycling – Mini squats – Step-ups – Balance exercises – Gait training | – Full/near full ROM – Walking without crutches – Minimal pain/swelling |
| Phase 3: Strength & Control | 6β12 weeks | – Build strength – Improve stability & control | – Leg press – Lunges – Hamstring curls – Core strengthening – Balance board training | – Strength β₯70% of other leg – Good balance – No swelling after exercise |
| Phase 4: Advanced Training | 3β6 months | – Prepare for running – Improve agility | – Jogging progression – Plyometrics (jumping) – Agility drills – Sport-specific drills | – Full ROM – Strength β₯80% – No pain/swelling |
| Phase 5: Return to Sport | 6β9+ months | – Safe return to sport – Prevent re-injury | – Full training drills – Cutting/pivoting drills – Functional testing | – Strength β₯90β95% – Pass hop tests – No instability |
π³π΅ Whatβs specific in Nepal?
In Nepal, the phyisotherapy protocol after ACLR surgery is similar, but differences may include:
- More manual therapy + exercise-based rehab
- Limited access to advanced equipment (isokinetic machines, Alter-G treadmill)
- Greater reliance on:
- Therabands
- Bodyweight exercises
- Home programs
Top centers in Kathmandu (like sports physio clinics) usually follow international guidelines (Aspetar / Melbourne protocols).

More Stories
Stroke Physiotherapy Protocol in Nepal (Recovery Guide in Kathmandu)
Physio Rehabilitation Plan After PCLR Knee Surgery (Step-by-Step Recovery Guide)
Knee Pain Treatment and Rehabilitation Guide: Expert Tips for Fast Recovery