REHABILITATION
ACL Return-to-Sport: A Framework for Coaches
Dr. Aisha Okonkwo
DPT · Sports Rehabilitation Specialist
April 3, 2026
10 min read
Understanding the rehabilitation timeline and clearance criteria for ACL injuries is essential knowledge for any fitness professional working with athletes.
ACL injuries represent one of the most challenging rehabilitation journeys in sports medicine. The return-to-sport decision is multifactorial, involving strength symmetry testing, psychological readiness, and sport-specific movement quality. This framework provides coaches with a systematic approach to supporting athletes through each phase of recovery.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Aisha Okonkwo
DPT · Sports Rehabilitation Specialist
A senior educator at Vitalis Lab with over a decade of applied experience in sports science, coaching, and professional certification development.
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