ACL Rehab

Ivy Rehab / Therapy Services / Athletic Therapy / ACL Rehab

What you should know about ACL rehab.

Every year in the United States, between 100,000 and 200,000 ACL injuries occur, with reconstruction surgeries performed for nearly 100,000 to 200,000 cases annually. Athletes commonly suffer ACL tears due to sudden pivots, jumps, and improper landings while participating in sports such as soccer, basketball, and football. The majority—approximately 70%—of these injuries happen in non-contact situations, meaning the athlete’s own movement places the excessive force on the ACL.

While female athletes are at a considerably higher risk than males, most recent studies report the risk is around five times greater (not ten), depending on sport and age group. Factors such as anatomy, neuromuscular control, and hormonal differences contribute to this disparity.

Unfortunately, even after ACL surgery, athletes remain highly susceptible to a second ACL injury. The reinjury rate is estimated between 15% and 25%; among young athletes who return to sports, rates can approach 30% within two years. Long-term, about 30% of individuals who experience an ACL tear will develop knee osteoarthritis within 10–15 years.

The encouraging news is that many ACL injuries are preventable. Sports physical therapists utilize specific training techniques to teach athletes how to jump, land, and pivot more safely—reducing force on the ACL and lowering the likelihood of injury. These programs not only minimize risk but also enhance overall performance by improving movement efficiency.

If you are planning for post-operative rehabilitation, seek a physical therapist who will restore your range of motion and strength, and analyze your movement patterns to address any potential causes of your injury. The ultimate goal is to help you return to play safely, run, jump, and cut in ways that protect your knees and reduce the risk of reinjury.

If you have sustained an ACL injury, request an appointment today to learn more about our ACL Injury Prevention program and start your path to a safer recovery..

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Ivy Rehab ACL Return-to-Sport program.

If you have sustained an ACL injury and are planning your post-operative rehabilitation, you need to ensure that you seek out a physical therapist who not only will return your full range-of-motion and strength but will also uncover and correct any movement technique abnormalities that may have contributed to your ACL injury. Our goal at Ivy Rehab is not only to get you back on the field, but to train you to run, jump, land, and cut in a manner that protects your knees and minimizes the risk of a second ACL injury. Second ACL injuries happen in as much as 30% of young athletes who return to sport after undergoing ACL surgery. The Ivy Rehab ACL Return-to-Sport program is part of a comprehensive ACL rehabilitation approach that takes the recovering athlete through a series of targeted, progressive tests designed to assess and improve your movement mechanics. This approach supports a safe and optimal return to sport, significantly reducing your chances of reinjury.

Some of the dynamics you’ll learn include:

Proper warm-up methods
Speed and agility techniques
Technique drills for jumping, landing, pivoting and cutting to avoid injury
Strength and flexibility training

Our sports physical therapists have helped professional athletes, coaches, and students learn the techniques proven to help prevent ACL injuries. Advanced movement assessments and personal one-on-one attention can help you return to or exceed your pre-injury level and reach your peak performance after ACL surgery, all while preventing second and third ACL injuries from happening in the future.

Request your appointment today at an Ivy Rehab Network location near you to learn more about our ACL Injury Prevention program.

What You’ll Learn in the ACL Return-to-Sport Program

Our sports physical therapists have worked with professional athletes, coaches, and student-athletes to deliver proven injury prevention strategies. Our approach includes:

Proper warm-up methods
Speed and agility techniques
Drills for jumping, landing, pivoting, and cutting
Strength and flexibility training
Education on movement efficiency and joint protection

With advanced movement assessments and one-on-one attention, our goal is to help you return to (or exceed) your pre-injury level while building long-term protection against re-injury.

FAQs

Can physical therapy prevent ACL injuries?

Yes. Our ACL Injury Prevention Program uses evidence-based training techniques to teach safer movement patterns that reduce the stress on the ACL. Many ACL injuries are preventable with proper mechanics and strength training.

How long is the recovery after ACL surgery with therapy?

Most athletes return to sport within 6 to 9 months, but recovery time varies based on individual progress and goals. Ivy Rehab’s return-to-sport testing ensures you’re fully ready before you return to high-demand activities.

How soon should I start physical therapy after ACL surgery?

You can typically begin physical therapy within a few days after surgery. Early rehab is critical to reduce swelling, restore range of motion, and prevent stiffness. Your Ivy Rehab therapist will work closely with your surgeon’s guidelines to tailor your plan.

Speed up your recovery.

Schedule an appointment with an Ivy Rehab clinic near you.

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References

ACL Tear Statistics: Reports 2025 – WifiTalents: https://wifitalents.com/acl-tear-statistics/
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Knee Injury – StatPearls: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499848/
Trends in the Treatment of ACL Tears in 2025 – Dr. Tingstad Presentation (PDF): https://www.inlandortho.net/hubfs/Dr.%20Tingstad%20Presentation%20PDF.pdf?hsLang=en
Analysis: Serious knee injury among teen athletes grows 26% – ProjectPlay: https://projectplay.org/news/2023/11/22/analysis-serious-knee-injury-among-teen-athletes-grows-26
When it comes to ACL injury, a dollar of prevention is worth more – Oregon State University: https://health.oregonstate.edu/news-and-stories/2025-03/when-it-comes-acl-injury-dollar-prevention-worth-more-seven-dollars-cure

Check out some of our 4 and 5 star reviews

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Excel Physical Therapy4.9

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Brian, Crystal and the team at Ivy Rehab Indian Trail are phenomenal. After my back injury, I received PT for the last few months.

They were patient, kind, understanding and worked with me to develop a personalized plan addressing my specific concerns. Thanks to Brian’s care, I saw significant improvement not only with my primary concern but my overall health as well.

The facility is well-equipped and scheduling was always accommodating – Crystal is simply the best!!! 10/10 I highly recommend for anyone needing rehabilitation services.

I will not hesitate to go back exclusively to Ivy should I have any further issues or concerns that needs addressing.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Indian Trail

Ivy rehab has been so helpful in PT needs. Connie goes above and beyond to help me with my therapy exercises and stretches. She has helped me in just two weeks of PT therapy. The staff is friendly and helpful. I highly recommend Ivy rehab to anyone with PT needs.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Princeton

Kelly and Tim were both phenomenal in helping me recover from a shoulder issue. The entire staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and provide just the right amount of encouragement while still challenging you to get better. Very patient focused on your individual recovery, and always flexible to helping you in ways that are easy to understand, and willing to go the extra mile to get you better. Cannot recommend enough if you need PT services.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – King of Prussia

Dan and Kelly at Excel (rebranding to Ivy Rehab) were fantastic partners in my rehabilitation of my AC joint injury after a bike accident. Every session was something to look forward to as I saw real progress week to week under their care. They were also extremely accommodating when trying to fit in multiple appointments each week. Cannot recommend them enough!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, we appreciate your feedback! – The team at Ivy Rehab, King of Prussia!

Didn’t think I’d be sad wrapping up PT! From start to finish my time with Damas, Sophia, and Zach was incredible. Over the course of three months, I went from walking with a crutch to confidently jogging. It meant a lot to have a support system that was able to push me, while remaining attentive and empathetic to my recovery. Would highly recommend the Ivy Rehab team!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Brooklyn – Fort Greene

I love the therapy received at Kempsville. The people were attentive, caring and very knowledgeable. I will come here for any physical therapy needs in the future. Great Team!!

Response from the owner:That's wonderful to hear – thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Virginia Beach – Kempsville

I worked with Sean and his assistants and highly recommend him. Sean not only set me up on the exercises, but he clearly explained what the purpose was and the part of the body that was being benefited. Sean also was attentive to how I was doing the exercise to make sure I was doing it properly even working with other patients! Also, everyone in the front office was courteous and helpful in booking appointments.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your positive feedback, it means the world to us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Island Park

matthew is a great, knowledgeable therapist and cool human being! everyone on staff there are also always very friendly and so helpful. i would prefer not to have new physical issues to manifest but if they do, i would definitely return to this practice.

Response from the owner:We're so thankful for your kind words and positive review! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Brooklyn – Fort Greene

This five star review is due to our Speech Therapist Irene. She took what was a very stressful situation and turned it into what felt like a more positive journey. Our son worked with her and has made so much progress. Very grateful to her!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the fantastic rating, we're so grateful! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids – North Wales

I love coming to Ivy rehab in Bala Hills. I have been coming here for years. The staff here is professional and DIcent. I especially enjoy coming to land and aqua therapy. I love that they have a variety of ways to do therapy.

Amy at the front desk is super awesome funny and a pleasure to see as your introduction to this place of business. Amy and Alex senior PT staff have much knowledge and experience in the field and present great therapeutic interventions that have helped with the improvement of my health and wellness regiment I highly recommend you get your PT needs taken care of here at Ivy Rehab.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to leave such thoughtful feedback, we're grateful! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Bala Cynwyd – North

Kyle is extremely knowledgeable and easy to work with to help diagnose my ailments. He provided me with a great rehabilitation program and made me feel at ease.

Response from the owner:Mike, thank you for taking the time to leave us a review and thank you for choosing Excel PT!

I recently returned from Lake Placid NY and enjoyed an intermediate hiking trail – kept up with a marine half way with success! Soon after, I traveled to Boston with my daughter by plane, going through the metal detectors repeating this 4 times, completely forgotten my knee replacement that triggered alarms. My daughter reminded me of my TKR. Now that’s what I call a successful PT experience. Joe and Holly helped me with my recovery with innovative therapy and strength training! Colleen and Chris kept the operations work well. A great team to work with. My only suggestion is to expand the physical floor plan to accommodate the clients with more privacy and room to work out. Thank you folks!

Response from the owner:We're so happy to hear this feedback – thank you for choosing us! The team at Excel Physical Therapy – West Deptford – 1007 Mantua Pke

Sam is extremely nice and really thorough in explaining things to me. After being there I'm confident they will be able to help me return to my normal self.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – North Wales – Montgomeryville

Anvi Patel is an excellent therapist! Every session was tailored to my comfort and progress, ensuring that I regained strength and flexibility for my sprained ankle. When I began my therapy, I had a significant pain, but now my ankle have got much better in terms of flexibility, mobility, and strength. Thank you, Anvi!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Philadelphia – Center City

The guy at the facility was so nice, friendly and very professional. Very clean place and confident. I am so glad with the service and support in my necessities 🙏🏽

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Comstock Park

I began coming to Ivy Rehab shortly after a wrist surgery (TFCC Repair). Leslie has been such an important part of my recovery and I couldn’t be more grateful for her care and expertise. From our very first session, she took the time to understand my injury, my goals, and my concerns. Her experience is evident in the way she approaches each exercise and adjusts the treatment plan based on my progress. She has incredible patience and never rushes the process, even when I felt frustrated or discouraged. Her recommendations both during sessions and for at-home care have been thoughtful and effective. She always explains the purpose behind each exercise, which has helped me stay motivated and engaged. I’ve noticed improvement in my mobility, strength, and comfort since starting therapy with her. Leslie also brings warmth, encouragement, and a calm presence that makes each session something I look forward to. I would highly recommend her.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the fantastic rating, we're so grateful! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Brooklyn – Fort Greene

I had a complex foot surgery and needed PT from a practice that understood this type of recovery. Ivy was fantastic. They are highly skilled, patient, personable, and the environment is truly welcoming. They got me running again and I'm so thankful for them!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, we appreciate you! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Hoboken – Midtown

Aaron, Josh, and the rest of the staff–John, Chris, Michelle, Alexa, Ebony–have all been pleasant and genuinely concerned with my rehab status and well-being. I felt very comfortable talking with them and voicing any questions or concerns regarding my progress. They guided me through stretching and exercises that alleviated my condition and strengthened me. They were professional as well as personal. I felt very comfortable and well cared for, and enjoyed my time. I would highly recommend Excel!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy, Westfield

Adam and the entire team helped me recover from my shoulder replacement surgery.
From the heat treatments, the massages and the various stretching and weight bearing exercises I have returned to almost normal functioning. I am extremely pleased.

Response from the owner:Your kind words brighten our day – thank you for sharing! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Conshohocken

Ian Maxwell was my physical therapist and he was amazing! Ian and the team were not only patient while I struggled through my ankle injury but they also pushed me to get back to my old activities. Ian was also incredibly knowledgeable when I had questions and provided positive feed back when I struggled to get my strength back. Everyone here was ultra friendly and they clearly work well as a team. This place is great!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Philadelphia

My 14yo son was diagnosed with a stress fracture in his back and was having delayed healing. He went to Ivy Rehab South for 6 weeks to prepare for his return to high school sports. Dan (and the rest of the staff and therapists) were excellent in his treatment, adjusting the program as needed and pushing him within the recommended guidelines. As a Physical Therapist myself, I would highly recommend the staff to anyone needing therapy. Many kids don't look forward to therapy when injured but I can say my son enjoyed his time there and has returned to full contact sports in better shape and better prepared than ever! Fully recommend without hesitation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words; we appreciate your feedback! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Blue Bell – South