Author: Ancy P Mathew (Physiotherapist – WELLKINS Medical Centre)
Torn your ACL or just had surgery? It’s natural to wonder when you’ll get back to walking normally, or even return to the sports you love. ACL injuries are indeed common and can feel daunting. But here’s the good news: with the right physiotherapy, a complete and confident recovery isn’t just possible—it’s what we aim for, and what we achieve.
At Wellkins Medical Centre in Doha, Qatar, we understand the challenges of an ACL injury. That’s why we’ve developed a specialized, structured ACL rehabilitation program designed to guide you through every stage of your recovery. We focus on helping you systematically regain strength, stability, and confidence.
If you’re curious about how Specialized ACL Physiotherapy After Surgery might benefit you, a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is always recommended to ensure proper application and integration into your recovery journey.
What is the ACL?
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is a crucial component for knee stability. This key ligament often tears during sudden movements like stops or twists, common in sports such as football, basketball, or badminton. It can also be injured during road accidents or awkward landings.
While an ACL tear often necessitates surgical reconstruction, the surgery itself is only the first step. Without dedicated rehabilitation, your knee can remain unstable, stiff, and weak.
What to Expect in Your ACL Rehab at Wellkins Medical Centre Qatar
Right after surgery, your knee may feel swollen, painful, or unstable. We begin with simple treatments to control pain and improve movement. As you heal, we gradually move on to strengthening exercises for your thigh and hip muscles, balance training, and helping you walk confidently without limping or support.
We use:
✔️Gentle manual therapy
✔️Targeted strengthening exercises
✔️Balance training tools like BOSU ball and steps
✔️Functional rehab — like climbing stairs, sitting, and returning to sport or work
✔️Guidance for posture and daily activity
No two knees heal the same — so your rehab plan is tailored just for you.
✅ DOs and ❌ DON’Ts After ACL Surgery
✅ DOs – What You Should Do
· Start physiotherapy early (as advised by your surgeon/physio)
· Use your brace and crutches correctly for support
· Keep your knee elevated to reduce swelling
· Apply cold therapy regularly in the first few days
· Do gentle knee bending and muscle activation exercises
· Follow your rehab plan consistently — no skipping!
· Strengthen your thigh, hip, and core muscles gradually
· Ask before doing stairs, squats, or driving
· Be patient — healing takes time and effort
· Stay in touch with your physiotherapist for progress checks
❌ DON’Ts – What to Avoid
· Don’t walk without support too early
· Don’t skip exercises — even if the knee “feels okay”
· Don’t sit for long hours without moving your leg
· Don’t do squats, lunges, or stairs unless advised
· Don’t lift heavy weights or run too soon
· Don’t remove your brace or support without permission
· Don’t ignore pain, swelling, or instability
· Don’t compare your recovery with others — every knee heals differently
· Don’t rush back to sport or gym without clearance
Don’t Delay Your Recovery!
Delaying or skipping physiotherapy after ACL surgery can lead to knee stiffness, long-term weakness, and even re-injury. Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen to you.
By understanding and adhering to these “don’ts,” you actively participate in safeguarding your recovery and laying the foundation for a durable, healthy knee for years to come
Read more about the physiotherapy services at wellkins here: https://wellkins.com/physiotherapy/
