ACL Injuries: What to Do and How Physiotherapy Can Help

An ACL injury is one of the most significant knee injuries, particularly common among athletes. At Leap Healthcare in Mount Waverley, our physiotherapists specialise in evidence-based rehabilitation to help you recover and return to the activities you love with strength and confidence.

How Does an ACL Injury Happen?

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a key structure that stabilises the knee. It helps prevent the shinbone from moving too far forward and provides rotational stability during dynamic movements.

ACL injuries usually occur during:

• Sudden changes in direction

• Awkward landings from a jump

• Rapid stops while running

• Direct contact to the knee during sport

Many people report hearing a popping sound, followed by pain, swelling, and a sense of instability. In most cases, walking becomes difficult and the knee may feel weak or give way under pressure.

What to Do Immediately After an ACL Injury

Acting quickly and appropriately can significantly influence recovery. If you suspect an ACL tear, follow these principles:

Protect the Knee

Avoid any activity that causes further strain. Crutches or a brace may be helpful initially, but avoid full immobilisation unless advised by a health professional.

Optimal Loading

Begin gentle, pain-free movement as early as possible. This keeps the joint mobile, encourages circulation, and reduces stiffness. A physiotherapist can help guide the safest early exercises.

Ice for Comfort

Ice packs can reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the early stages. While it doesn’t accelerate healing, it helps manage symptoms.

Compression and Elevation

These strategies may assist with swelling. Use in combination with movement, not as a substitute for rehabilitation.

See a Physiotherapist Early

Early intervention with physiotherapy helps reduce long-term complications and ensures a clearer path toward either surgical or non-surgical recovery.

How Physiotherapy Helps ACL Recovery

At Leap Healthcare in Mount Waverley, our ACL rehab programs focus on restoring knee function and long-term joint health. Whether your injury is managed conservatively or requires surgery, physiotherapy plays a vital role.

Our approach includes:

• Rebuilding strength in the quads, hamstrings, and glutes

• Improving range of motion and joint control

• Restoring balance, coordination, and confidence in movement

• Reducing reinjury risk with sport-specific drills and progression

• Structured return-to-play planning tailored to your sport or activity

For some people with partial ACL injuries, physiotherapy alone may be sufficient to restore function. If surgery is required, both pre-operative and post-operative rehab can help optimise strength and recovery timelines.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Whether you’ve recently sustained a knee injury or are struggling with ongoing instability, our team at Leap Healthcare can help. With advanced testing, a fully equipped rehab space, and experience working with athletes and active individuals, we provide the guidance you need to heal well.

📍 Visit our Mount Waverley clinic
📲 Book your appointment online or call (03) 8512 9958

Let’s get you back to full strength, safely and with confidence.