Sports Injuries

ACL Injury & Rehabilitation

Expert assessment, treatment and rehabilitation from our Chartered Physiotherapists in Gorey.

ACL Injury Treatment in Gorey

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is one of the most serious and common knee injuries in sport. ACL injuries typically occur during sudden changes of direction, pivoting or twisting movements, jumping and landing, and deceleration during running.

Sports such as GAA, soccer and rugby place high demands on the knee, making ACL injuries relatively common. We provide expert assessment and rehabilitation for ACL injuries, whether treated conservatively or following surgery. See also our Sports Injuries and Knee Pain pages.

What Is an ACL Injury?

The ACL is one of the main stabilising ligaments of the knee. It helps control forward movement and rotation of the joint. When the ACL is injured or torn, the knee may become unstable, particularly during sport. ACL injuries range from minor sprains to partial tears and complete ruptures.

Symptoms of an ACL Injury

  • A popping sensation at the time of injury
  • Swelling in the knee
  • Instability or the knee “giving way”
  • Difficulty returning to sport
  • Reduced confidence in the knee

Do You Need Surgery for an ACL Injury?

Not all ACL injuries require surgery. Treatment depends on your age, activity level, type of sport and degree of instability. Athletes involved in pivoting sports often require ACL reconstruction surgery, while others may successfully rehabilitate without surgery. A physiotherapy assessment can help guide this decision.

ACL Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is essential for recovery from an ACL injury, whether treated surgically or conservatively. Recovery typically progresses through stages:

  • Early stage – reduce pain and swelling, restore knee movement and activate the muscles around the knee.
  • Strength phase – rebuild quadriceps and hamstring strength, improve balance and stability and restore movement control.
  • Return to sport phase – develop power and strength, improve agility and coordination and introduce sport-specific movements.

Objective Strength Testing

We use objective strength testing equipment to measure quadriceps and hamstring strength, compare the injured leg to the uninjured side, track progress and determine readiness for return to sport. Results are displayed in graph format, helping athletes see their progress and build confidence.

Rehabilitation Classes for ACL Injury

We offer small group ACL rehabilitation classes in our rehabilitation gym, limited to four participants. These classes provide expert coaching from physiotherapists, progressive strength and conditioning, sport-specific rehabilitation and a structured pathway back to sport. Many athletes complete this programme stronger and faster than they were before their injury.

Excellent Value

ACL rehabilitation classes cost €140 for four one-hour sessions – excellent value compared with one-to-one physiotherapy while still allowing close supervision.

Return to Sport After ACL Injury

Returning to sport too early after an ACL injury increases the risk of reinjury. We use a combination of strength testing, balance assessment and functional movement testing to guide safe return-to-sport decisions.

Why Choose Physio Solutions for ACL Rehabilitation?

  • Experienced physiotherapy team
  • Structured rehabilitation programmes
  • Objective strength testing
  • Small group rehab classes
  • Evidence-based treatment approach

When Should You Seek Treatment?

You should seek a physiotherapy assessment if you suspect an ACL injury, have knee instability, are preparing for ACL surgery, are recovering after ACL reconstruction, or want to return to sport safely.

Book an ACL Assessment

If you have suffered an ACL injury or are recovering from surgery, we can guide your rehabilitation and help you return to sport safely. When booking, select “Initial Physiotherapy Appointment”.

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