@aimee.clark.physio: Why extension matters after ACL surgery! 1. Normal walking • Full extension is needed to walk properly • Even a small loss (5–10°) can cause limping and extra strain on hips/back 2. Prevents long-term stiffness (arthrofibrosis) • Scar tissue forms quickly after surgery • If extension isn’t restored early, the knee can become permanently stiff 3. Protects the graft • A knee that won’t fully straighten changes joint mechanics • This can overload the ACL graft and other structures 4. Reduces anterior knee pain • Lack of extension increases pressure behind the kneecap • Common cause of ongoing pain after ACL surgery 5. Enables muscle recovery • Full extension is required for proper quadriceps activation • Without it, quad weakness persists and slows rehab 6. Improves long-term outcomes • Studies consistently show patients who regain full extension early have: • Better strength • Better function • Lower re-injury risk Timing is key • First 2–3 weeks post-op are the most important window • Extension should ideally match the non-injured knee as early as possible #acl #physio #knee #rehab #surgery
