ACL Reconstruction Rehab in Reno
Evidence-Based Recovery to Get You Back to What You Love
An ACL reconstruction is a major surgery—but with the right rehab, you can come back stronger than ever. At Strength in Motion in Reno, Nevada, we use a research-backed, progressive approach to ACL rehabilitation. Our goal is not just to restore your knee, but to help you regain confidence, power, and resilience so you can safely return to sport, fitness, or everyday life.
Why ACL Rehab Matters
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is critical for knee stability, especially during cutting, pivoting, and jumping. After reconstruction surgery, the graft and surrounding tissues need time to heal—but just as important, the muscles, nervous system, and movement patterns must be retrained.
Too often, athletes rush back or stop rehab early. Evidence shows that a structured, progressive program is key to reducing reinjury risk and maximizing long-term outcomes.
Common Challenges After ACL Reconstruction
- Loss of range of motion — difficulty straightening or bending the knee
- Quadriceps weakness — atrophy of the quadriceps requires targeted strengthening
- Graft protection vs. loading — finding the right timing and intensity for strengthening
- Fear of reinjury — athletes often feel hesitant or uncertain returning to play
- Asymmetry — lingering differences between the surgical and non-surgical leg
Our ACL Rehab Approach
At Strength in Motion, we tailor every rehab plan to your surgery type, sport, and personal goals. Rehab typically progresses through clearly defined phases:
Early Phase
Swelling control, restoring extension, gentle activation of quadriceps and glutes, gait retraining
Strength & Control Phase
Progressive resistance training (including blood flow restriction, if appropriate), balance work, and Pilates-based movement for hip/core integration
Power & Agility Phase
Plyometrics, cutting, change of direction, and sport-specific drills
Return to Sport Testing
Evidence-based testing of strength, hop performance, and movement mechanics to ensure safe clearance
Overhead & Field Athletes, Weekend Warriors, and Everyone In Between
We know the unique demands placed on different athletes:
- Field and court athletes (soccer, basketball, volleyball) need explosive jumping, landing, and cutting mechanics.
- Endurance athletes (runners, triathletes) benefit from a gradual, load-based return to running with emphasis on single-leg strength and shock absorption.
- Active adults simply want to get back to hiking, skiing, or fitness without worrying about their knee.
Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there safely and confidently.
What You Can Expect at Strength in Motion
- Thorough movement and strength assessment
- Manual therapy as needed for joint mobility and soft tissue recovery
- Progressive strength training—including squats, lunges, step-ups, and power drills
- Pilates-based rehab to integrate control and alignment
- Blood flow restriction (BFR) training when appropriate for early strength gains
- Education and ongoing progress checks to keep you on track
Our Treatment Philosophy
At Strength in Motion, we don’t just rebuild knees—we rebuild athletes. That means:
- A personalized plan that evolves with your progress
- Evidence-based strategies proven to reduce reinjury risk
- A focus on whole-body strength and mechanics, not just the knee
- Guidance for long-term resilience, so you feel confident in your body again
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Recovering from ACL reconstruction is a journey, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Strength in Motion in Reno, Nevada, we’re committed to helping you return stronger, safer, and with more confidence than before.
References
- Adams D, et al. Current concepts for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a criterion-based rehabilitation progression. JOSPT. 2012;42(7):601–614.
- Dingenen B, Gokeler A. Optimization of the return-to-sport paradigm after ACL reconstruction: a critical step back to move forward. Sports Med. 2017;47(8):1487–1500.
- Grindem H, et al. Simple decision rules can reduce reinjury risk by 84% after ACL reconstruction. Br J Sports Med. 2016;50(13):804–808.
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