Quad Strength Progression in ACL Rehab

At Impact Physical Therapy, we follow a structured quad-strengthening protocol to ensure safe and effective recovery.

📆 Phase 1: Early Activation (Weeks 0-4)

• Goal: Reduce swelling, restore knee extension, and re-activate the quadriceps.

  • Quad Sets

  • Straight-Leg Raises

  • Electrical Stimulation

  • Heel Slides for Range of Motion

  • Terminal Knee Extensions (TKEs)

📆 Phase 2: Strength Building (Weeks 4-12)

• Goal: Improve quad control and increase strength.

  • Bodyweight Squats, Split Squats

  • Step-Ups and Step-Downs

  • Leg Press (progressively adding weight)

  • Blood flow restriction training

📆 Phase 3: Functional Strength & Stability (Months 3-6)

• Goal: Prepare the knee for return to higher-level activities.

  • Bulgarian Split Squats

  • Eccentric Step-Downs

  • Weighted Squats and Lunges

  • Single-Leg Strength & Balance Drills

📆 Phase 4: Power, Agility, & Return to Sport (Months 6-12)

• Goal: Restore explosive strength and ACL protection for sport-specific movements.

  • Jumping & Plyometric Training

  • Controlled Sprinting & Cutting Drills

  • Sport-Specific Exercises

Key Tips for Rebuilding Quad Strength After ACL Surgery

• Focus on Knee Extension Early: Regaining full knee straightening is essential for proper quad activation.

• Progressive Overload is Key: Gradually increase intensity to rebuild muscle size and strength.

• Don't Skip Eccentric Training: Strengthening the quads during lowering movements (eccentrics) is vital for ACL protection.

• Use Single-Leg Exercises: This ensures equal strength development and reduces compensations.

• Consistency is Everything: Strength gains take time—stick with your rehab plan for long-term success.

Strengthen Your Quads, Strengthen Your Recovery

Your quadriceps are the foundation of a successful ACL rehabilitation. Whether you're just starting post-op rehab or working toward a return to sport, strengthening your quads should be a top priority. At Impact Physical Therapy and Sports Performance, we develop personalized ACL rehab programs that emphasize quad strength, knee stability, and functional movement to get you back stronger than before.

📞 Contact us today to schedule your ACL rehabilitation session and take the next step toward full recovery!

#ACLRehab #QuadricepsStrength #KneeRecovery #PhysicalTherapy #SportsRehab #ImpactStrength