Accelerated Return to Sport with a Standardized Rehabilitation Protocol Following ACL Reconstruction: A Case Series

Anggi Gilang Yudiansyah; Gutama Arya Pringga; Muhammad Barlian Nugroho; Azizati Rochmania

doi:10.33474/jki.v15i1.25074

Authors

Anggi Gilang Yudiansyah Faculty of Medicine Universitas Islam Malang, Malang, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4341-0039
Gutama Arya Pringga Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8382-706X
Muhammad Barlian Nugroho Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang, Indonesia
Azizati Rochmania Faculty of Medicine, State University of Surabaya, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33474/jki.v15i1.25074

Abstract

This case series evaluates the effectiveness of a standardized rehabilitation protocol in facilitating recovery and return to sport (RTS) following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Four male athletes aged 20 to 30 years with isolated ACL tears underwent reconstruction using a semitendinosus tendon autograft, followed by a phased rehabilitation protocol. The program progressed from early pain management and ROM restoration to proprioceptive, plyometric, and sport-specific training. Functional outcomes were assessed through range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, Lysholm and KOOS scores, hop test performance, and limb symmetry index. All patients achieved >90% limb symmetry and functional test scores, with RTS achieved within an average of eight months. No complications or psychological barriers were reported. This case series underscores the importance of integrating physical and psychological rehabilitation components, demonstrating the protocol’s adaptability and effectiveness in optimizing post-ACL reconstruction recovery and minimizing re-injury risk.