The E3 Rehab Podcast 194. ACL Return to Sport: Is 9 Months the Sweet Spot? w/ Roula Kotsifaki
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Apr 1, 2025 In this discussion with Roula Kotsifaki, a skilled physiotherapist at Aspetar Hospital, they tackle the hot topic of ACL rehabilitation timelines. Roula shares insights from her latest research questioning whether nine months is the ideal return-to-sport mark for male athletes. The conversation highlights the importance of personalized recovery plans, balancing eagerness with safety, and the role of testing in motivating athletes. They also explore how emotional factors and communication can impact rehabilitation outcomes.
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Evolution of ACL Return-to-Sport Timelines
- ACL return-to-sport timelines have evolved over decades, from 6 months to as long as 2 years.
- The focus has shifted between ligament healing time and functional criteria.
Ligamentization and Contralateral Injuries
- Ligament healing time doesn't fully explain contralateral ACL injuries.
- Focusing solely on the ligament's status might not be the best approach.
Aspetar's Return-to-Sport Protocol
- At Aspetar, the rehab team and surgeon clear players for return to sport, not time constraints.
- This approach was challenged when surgeons started enforcing a 9-month waiting period.