left behind and socially isolated from their support 
system.
• Fear of Re-injury: Even in the very early stages, a 
looming fear of re-injury can begin to take hold. This 
anxiety can be a significant barrier to effective 
rehabilitation and a full return to sport.
Recovery from an ACL Injury
What Happens After an Injury?
If an athlete has an injury that is concerning for an 
ACL tear, it is important that they seek care from a 
qualified physician. The physician, with the aid of 
imaging and physical exam, will discuss the best 
options of treatment that is specific for that athlete. 
There are many factors that impact what the best 
treatment is including other medical conditions, age, 
degree of injury, etc. If surgery is determined to be 
the best treatment option, rehabilitation before and 
after surgery are critical to a healthy return to sport.
Exercises prior to surgery are focused on achieving 
and maintaining an individual's full range of motion 
of the knee, as well as quadriceps and hamstring 
activation (Figure 2)10. By performing these exercis-
es, it gives the athlete the best chance of a successful 
recovery. These exercises can be done under the 
guidance of an athletic trainer, physical therapist, or 
at home. In addition, coaches should encourage their 
athletes to perform these exercises illustrated below 
in Figure 3:
Figure 3.
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