When is sports physiotherapy recommended for ACL tear?

The anterior cruciate ligament helps control forward movement and rotation of the knee. Rehabilitation may be used after a partial or complete tear, whether treatment is non-surgical or follows ACL surgery. Early sessions can address swelling, pain, knee movement and activation of the thigh muscles. Later work can develop leg strength, balance, landing control and confidence during sport-specific movements.

Arrange an assessment with an orthopaedic clinician or physiotherapist, especially if the knee gives way, remains swollen or cannot fully straighten. Follow the agreed loading plan rather than testing the knee with running, cutting or jumping. A sports physiotherapist can adjust exercises as movement improves and can use functional checks to guide a staged return to training. See [ACL Tear](/conditions/acl-tear/) and [Sports Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/sports-physiotherapy/) for related information.

Seek prompt medical assessment after a twisting injury with major swelling, inability to bear weight, a locked knee, marked deformity, numbness or a cold foot. During rehabilitation, contact your care team if swelling rapidly increases, pain becomes severe, the calf becomes swollen or tender, or the knee repeatedly buckles.

Ask whether the tear is partial or complete, whether surgery is being considered, which movements are currently restricted, and what milestones should be met before jogging, changing direction or returning to competition.