ACL Injury, Surgery, and Rehabilitation: A Science-Based and Evidence-Informed Approach

Course Description: Injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can be devastating. Approximately 250,000 ACL injuries occur annually in the United States and ACL injury rates are rising, particularly among young individuals involved in jumping, cutting, and pivoting sports (Frank & Jackson, 1997; Griffin et al., 2000; Majewski, Susanne, & Klaus, 2006). ACL injuries typically result in substantial short-term physical impairments and long-term joint morbidity including a high risk for subsequent injury and early, post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The purpose of this intermediate-level course is to provide physical therapists and physical therapist assistants with an overview of the etiology and risk factors of isolated ACL injury; to discuss pertinent clinical examination, classification, and prognosis after ACL injury and reconstruction; and to review interventions relevant to successful outcomes after injury or surgery.