An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear can be life-changing. For many people, surgery is the best path to recovery, especially if they want to return to sports, an active lifestyle, or simply pain-free daily movement. But here’s the truth: the work starts before you even step into the operating room.
That’s where prehab comes in.
Prehab (short for pre-rehabilitation) is a customized exercise and therapy program designed to prepare your body for surgery. Think of it as laying the foundation for a stronger, smoother recovery.
Why Prehab Matters Before ACL Surgery
Restores Range of Motion
After an ACL tear, it’s common to experience stiffness and swelling in the knee. Prehab focuses on reducing inflammation and regaining motion so you’re not going into surgery with limitations. The more mobility you have before surgery, the faster you’ll regain it afterward.Strengthens Supporting Muscles
Strong quads, hamstrings, hips, and core muscles all help stabilize your knee. Prehab targets these areas so your leg is better equipped to handle the demands of surgery and early recovery.Improves Circulation & Reduces Swelling
Light strengthening and mobility exercises encourage blood flow, which helps reduce swelling and speeds up healing in the early post-op stages.Boosts Confidence & Mental Preparedness
Going into surgery can feel overwhelming. Prehab teaches you the movements you’ll be doing after surgery (like quad sets, straight leg raises, and gentle bends), so you feel confident and ready.Leads to Better Outcomes
Studies show that patients who complete prehab before ACL surgery often recover faster, regain strength sooner, and have better long-term results compared to those who skip it.
What Does ACL Prehab Include?
Every program is tailored to your needs, but common elements often include:
Range of Motion Work: Heel slides, gentle stretches, and stationary cycling.
Strengthening: Quad sets, straight leg raises, bridges, and mini squats.
Balance & Control: Single-leg stance, step-ups, and stability drills.
Swelling & Pain Management: Ice, compression, and guided activity modification.
A physical therapist will design a program specific to your injury, fitness level, and surgical plan. Prehab sets you up for success. By working on strength, mobility, and confidence before surgery, you’ll walk into the operating room prepared — and walk out with a smoother, faster path to recovery. If you’ve been scheduled for ACL surgery, talk to your surgeon or physical therapist about starting a prehab program. The effort you put in now will pay off later.