Course Description:

As technology, surgical techniques, and graft options continue to evolve with regards to ACL reconstruction, sports medicine professionals must stay abreast of changes within the literature to assure proper rehabilitation of athletes. The instructor provides a review of the current literature as it pertains to current controversies in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction rehabilitation. Some of the topics to be covered throughout this course include the need for surgical reconstruction, graft choice options, functional bracing, rehabilitation techniques, and return to play decision making. Participants will review the possible benefits of inclusion of a neuromuscular injury prevention program while taking a closer look at appropriate rehabilitation exercises to integrate during different stages of post-operative recovery. Individuals will be able to distinguish between different types of functional tests, which will allow sports medicine professionals to develop a more comprehensive return to play plan. Participants will be able to compare the recommended guidelines presented within the lecture to the participant’s current clinical practice while assessing the need for change within a specific patient population.