ACLR Return to Run Case Study

Lessons and advice from an elite Netballer

Let me tell you about CH.

CH is a force of nature on the netball court.

She lives for the sharp cuts, the explosive jumps, and the camaraderie of the game.

Four months ago, she underwent an ACL reconstruction using a patellar tendon graft (BPTB).

Now, she’s got the itch.

She's feeling stronger, the knee looks less like a balloon, and she’s desperate to feel the wind in her hair and the rhythmic thud of her feet on a track. The old-school rehab playbook, and frankly, 99% of the historical research, would look at the calendar and say, "You're past 3 months out, let's give it a go!".

But what if "giving it a go" is the worst thing we could do for her right now?

What if the calendar is the least reliable tool we have for making one of the most important decisions in her recovery?

This is the story of CH, and it’s a story every single ACL patient and health professional needs to understand. It’s the battle of Data vs. Dates, and it’s a battle that will define the long-term success of your recovery.

The Old Map vs. The New GPS

For years, ACL rehab was navigated with an old, folded paper map.

The map was simple: do this for 6 weeks, then this for another 6 weeks, and at 3 months, you start running.

Time was the only landmark.

The problem? That map doesn't account for traffic jams, detours, or the fact that everyone's car (and body) is different. It led far too many people to break down.

Today, we have a new GPS.

It’s a criteria-based approach that uses real-time, objective data from your body to guide the journey. It’s about ensuring you have enough fuel in the tank, air in the tires, and a well-tuned engine before you even think about hitting the highway of running and jumping. This approach is revolutionising how we manage ACL recovery, making it safer and more successful.

The "Ready-to-Run" Checklist: What the Experts Look For

So, what does this new GPS look for?

What does a knee that's genuinely ready for the impact of running look like? Based on a mountain of current research, we’ve built a powerful checklist.

First, the simple stuff. Your knee needs to be calm and happy.

• You need full knee extension (it must go dead straight).

• Swelling needs to be minimal to non-existent.

• Pain during your everyday activities should be a 2/10 at the absolute most.