Torn ACL But No Surgery — What Now? Do You Have to Have ACL Surgery? Not always. And anyone who tells you that you must get an ACL reconstruction the minute you tear it… probably isn’t looking at the full picture. I’ve worked with hundreds of ACLers — some with surgery, some without.And guess what? … Read more
Look down at your leg post-ACL surgery and the first thought is usually: “Where the hell did my quad go?”It happens fast. And it freaks people out — because the quad doesn’t just bounce back on its own. But here’s what most people don’t realise:Your quad isn’t lazy — it’s neurologically switched off. 🧠 Why … Read more
Let’s get one thing straight:A little ache is one thing — constant pain is another. If you’re 2–3 months post-op and still wincing when you walk or struggling to sleep because of knee pain, let me be honest with you:No, that’s not normal. I get messages daily from people saying things like: “My knee still … Read more
If you’ve been told to avoid the knee extension machine after ACL surgery, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most misunderstood movements in ACL rehab — often banned outright, without context. Patients hear phrases like: “It’s too much strain on the graft.”“Just stick to squats for now.”“That machine’s dangerous after surgery.” But here’s the … Read more
Let’s talk ice machines after ACL surgery — because trust me, you’ll be icing a lot. And not all options are created equal. I’ve had four knee surgeries myself (only one ACL, thankfully), and I’ve tried everything from cheap freezer packs to top-end machines. So here’s the honest truth, based on experience — not just … Read more
You’ve just had ACL surgery. You’re looking at your leg thinking, “Where’s my quad gone?”Honestly — that early quad shutdown catches everyone off guard. One of the best bits of kit to help with that in the early weeks?The Compex muscle stimulator. Here’s my honest take on whether it’s actually worth it — and how … Read more
Big news: FIFA is finally funding a study into the rise of ACL injuries in women’s football. The research, based at Kingston University, will explore whether hormonal changes across the menstrual cycle could increase the risk of ACL tears. It’s the first time a governing body like FIFA is seriously investing in why this keeps … Read more
Must-Haves After ACL Surgery (That Actually Make a Difference) If I had no budget limit and could kit out every ACL patient with the best gear — these would be the must-haves. Some are small and simple. Others cost a little more. But every single one of them can make your ACL recovery smoother, quicker, … Read more
Why Does ACL Rehab Take So Long? (And How to Make It Worth It) Let’s clear something up straight away: ACL rehab isn’t necessarily slow – it just feels like it.Hear me out. Most surgeons and physios (the good ones, anyway) should be telling you upfront: ACL rehab is a 12-month process if you’re doing … Read more
Are You Struggling with Knee Extension After ACL Surgery? If you’re months post-ACL surgery and still can’t fully straighten your knee, you might have heard the term Cyclops lesion. But here’s the truth: 9 out of 10 times, it’s NOT a Cyclops lesion—it’s just bad rehab. As an ACL rehab specialist, I’m seeing more and … Read more