Preoperative Phase in the Rehabilitation of the Patient Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Rehabilitation associated with anterior cruciate ligament injury continues to evolve, with the current emphasis on immediate weight bearing and range of motion, coupled with progressive muscular strengthening, proprioception, dynamic stability, and neuromuscular control exercises. The preoperative phase of the rehabilitation program is critical to ensure proper preparation of the patient for surgery, facilitating a successful postoperative outcome. The primary goal is to return the patient’s knee as close as possible to homeostasis by reducing swelling and pain, restoring range of motion, and re-establishing quadriceps control following injury and before surgery The purpose of this article is to provide the reader with a thorough scientifically based preoperative rehabilitation program that can be successfully implemented in any patient before undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.