Current controversies in rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Rehabilitation concepts after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction continue to advance rapidly. A review of the recent literature reveals numerous aspects of the rehabilitation program, the subject of investigation, and validation. Areas discussed in this article include the efficacy of functional bracing after ACL reconstruction and perturbation training programs in nonoperative, preoperative and postoperative rehabilitation programs. Also discussed is the need for criteria-based progression through the late stages (return to sports) of the ACL reconstruction rehabilitation.