Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The ACL Athlete Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 251 | Knee Flexion Truths in ACL Rehab: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and What Actually Matters | 20 Nov 2025 | 00:12:07 | |
In this episode, we unpack the real truth about knee flexion after ACL surgery — what’s normal, what’s not, and how much it actually matters in your recovery. We break down the key milestones you should hit, why extension still reigns supreme early on, and the single most useful test you can do at home to track your progress. You’ll learn why some athletes regain full flexion quickly while others take months, how swelling and your symptom profile influence the timeline, and why small daily “microdoses” of mobility work outperform long, heavy sessions. If you’ve ever felt behind, unsure, or confused about your flexion range, this episode gives you the clarity and reassurance you need. | |||
| 250 | From Hopeless to Hopeful: The Mindset Shift After Another ACL Tear | 13 Nov 2025 | 00:36:06 | |
In this episode, you’ll hear a fired-up deep dive on answering an ACLers question after another ACL injury. We dive into why they happen more than they should, what actually moves the needle on reducing them, and how to navigate the emotional whiplash of “here we go again.” We break down re-injury rates, calling out timeline-based clearances, and making the case for rigorous return-to-sport testing plus truly individualized programming. You’ll also get a candid take on unhelpful medical narratives and a practical reframe: treat this as an opportunity become a strong and more resilient human—so this ACL injury is your last. | |||
| 241 | Inside the OR: Important Lessons I Took From Watching ACL Surgery Firsthand - Part 1 | 11 Sep 2025 | 00:29:52 | |
In this part 1 of the 3-part podcast episode series, I take you inside the OR to share fresh, front-row takeaways from watching multiple ACL surgeries—BPTB autografts, meniscectomies vs repairs, and lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET). You’ll hear how surgical volume and precision matter, why symptoms compound when procedures stack, and what real-time decisions look like when a surgeon weighs repairability and patient compliance. Clinicians and ACLers alike will walk away with practical insights to set expectations, respect precautions, and make smarter early-phase rehab calls. | |||
| 151 | Why Offloading is Important for Post-Op ACL | 21 Dec 2023 | 00:19:39 | |
In this episode, we discuss the importance of offloading after an ACL injury or surgery. We dive into this concept and how it applies to a knee that's been through a lot, the healing process, and a practical approach to make sure you're not limping or dealing with grumpy knee later on. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 150 | The High-Low Approach in ACL Rehab | 14 Dec 2023 | 00:23:44 | |
In this episode, we cover what the high-low approach is and how it applies to ACL rehab. We discuss how this plays into structuring your ACL rehab programming, managing your CNS, a weekly example, mistakes that can be made, and how this might differ along the rehab-performance continuum. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 149 | A Simple Shift When Life Gets Busy For ACL Rehab | 07 Dec 2023 | 00:09:56 | |
In this episode, we discuss a simple shift that can help you if you're finding yourself a bit thin on time and trying to manage ACL rehab, life, and all the things in between. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 148 | Breaking Down ACL Graft Types and The Big 3 | 30 Nov 2023 | 00:17:21 | |
In this episode, we cover a simple and general overview of the different ACL graft types that you will encounter in discussion with your surgeon, what they are, where they come from, nuances to each of the graft types, and some additional procedures that can be involved. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 147 | AnnKNEEversary - Imposter Syndrome | 23 Nov 2023 | 00:10:06 | |
In this episode, we're coming in with some gratitude and a thought on imposter syndrome. I think you'll find a lot of similarities in this if you're someone going through the ACL journey or trying to push yourself beyond your comfort zone. | |||
| 146 | What is EPIC Scoring and How Can It Be Helpful in ACL Rehab? | 16 Nov 2023 | 00:16:13 | |
In this episode, we dive into what EPIC scoring is. We cover what's used most often and how EPIC scoring can add a lot of value to your ACL rehab process if the timing is right. | |||
| 145 | 20 Red Flags To Consider in Your ACL Rehab - Part 2 | 09 Nov 2023 | 00:14:55 | |
In this two-part series, we discuss the second half of the 20 red flags to consider in your ACL rehab. We cover ways to filter through the right environment, testing, programming, specific movements, knee extensions, and so much more. If you're feeling like your rehab isn't heading in the right direction, maybe it's the guidance as opposed to the plan. Find out for yourself. | |||
| 144 | 20 Red Flags To Consider in Your ACL Rehab - Part 1 | 02 Nov 2023 | 00:13:30 | |
In this two-part series, we discuss 10 of the 20 red flags to consider in your ACL rehab. We cover what a red flag is, how to make decisions based on some that you might notice, and rolling through the list of our first 10 red flags and a deeper dive into each to help set you up for your ACL rehab and journey. | |||
| 143 | Choosing What's Available vs. What's Needed in Your ACL Rehab | 26 Oct 2023 | 00:16:20 | |
In this episode, we discuss choosing what's available vs. what's needed in your ACL rehab. We cover some real-life examples of conversations I have with ACLers, dealing with change, recognizing red flags in care, being able to readjust priorities based on what's needed, and how you can better frame this to make a decision that will help you in the long run. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 142 | Athlete Wins 8.0 | 19 Oct 2023 | 00:17:29 | |
In this episode, we cover an ACL athlete win. A long, hard 9+ month recovery for a college soccer player who now is finally back to the field. We dive into the journey of this ACLer - the early, mid, and late stages and the ups and downs that were experienced. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. Ways we can connect: My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dpt Our website: www.theaclathlete.com Email: ravi@theaclathlete.com _________________ Check out our website and tons of free ACL resources Sign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up) 1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing. From anywhere in the world | |||
| 240 | A Hidden Factor in ACL Strength Testing – Familiarization | 04 Sep 2025 | 00:20:25 | |
In this episode, we break down a rarely talked-about but crucial concept in ACL rehab: familiarization with strength testing. From isometric quad tests to full testing protocols, we talk through how unfamiliarity with machines, cues, and even the environment can drastically skew test results—often underestimating an athlete’s true capacity. I share personal experiences, common clinical pitfalls, and real-world athlete examples to highlight why repeated exposure, consistent setup, and managing expectations can make all the difference in generating accurate data. Whether you’re an athlete or clinician, this is a must-listen if you’re relying on testing to guide decisions in ACL rehab. | |||
| 141 | Should You Wait 2 Weeks For PT After ACL Surgery? | 12 Oct 2023 | 00:20:13 | |
In this episode, we answer the question whether you should wait 2 weeks (or any extended amount of time) for physical therapy after ACL surgery. We dive into the reasons why this might be suggested, why it might not be the best idea, the benefits of having a game plan, and covering a gap that might often get missed. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 140 | Why You Should Know What's Done in Your ACL Surgery | 05 Oct 2023 | 00:17:54 | |
In this episode, we discuss why you should know what's being done in your ACL surgery. We cover how you can best do that and practical routes to obtain this information. Most importantly, how does this have implications for your rehab process and journey from the post-injury, post-op to mid and late stages, and why knowing can make a huge difference in the game plan, approach, and expectations. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 139 | Practical Application of Designing a Gym-Based ACL Rehab Session (Including a Case Study of 3-Month Post-Op ACL - Quad Autograft + Meniscus Repair) | 28 Sep 2023 | 00:25:22 | |
In this episode, we dive into an ACLer's case that's 3 months post op with a lot going on. We use a principles-based approach to their session and how we aim to bridge the gap between their current deficits and goals. If you’re a PT, ATC, coach, or any other healthcare professional involved in serving ACLers and helping them get back to what they love, get on our Mentorship Insider List. | |||
| 138 | ACL Rehab Principle - Addition By Subtraction | 21 Sep 2023 | 00:13:02 | |
In this episode, we discuss a crucial ACL rehab principle. We cover what this means, how it can be applied to your ACL rehab and process, a big player into mindset, and some real-life examples and questions of how you can put this in play. This can be an absolute game-changer if you utilize it - whether it's in your ACL rehab process, school, work, or even life. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 137 | The Value of Using Time in ACL Rehab | 14 Sep 2023 | 00:26:49 | |
In this episode, we discuss time and ACL rehab. We often talk about why time is a bad judge of readiness during this process. 3 months till your protocol says to run? Based on what? Today, we cover why it can also provide value if used appropriately. How? Check out the episode and see how you can use the right formula to set yourself up best in the ACL rehab process. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 136 | Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA) in ACL Rehab | 07 Sep 2023 | 00:27:07 | |
In this episode, we discuss a manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) in ACL rehab. We cover what is it, why it's done, when it's done, what the research says about MUAs, what exactly to expect with an MUA and our own recommendations working with ACLers who have gone through this process. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 135 | The Moving Goalpost in ACL Rehab | 31 Aug 2023 | 00:12:24 | |
In this episode, we dive into a mindset episode. The moving goalpost is a phenomenon we all experience in life, but it rings especially true in the ACL rehab process. We cover how this mindset can impact our journey from the initial phases to the very end. If you're feeling you're running out of steam or stuck, this ones for you. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 134 | "Graduating PT" for ACL Rehab | 24 Aug 2023 | 00:13:49 | |
In this episode, we dive into the specifics of what "graduating PT" can mean for you and your road ahead. If we're not careful, it can give us this false illusion of being done or better off than we actually are. How can you know? Audit it through the 3-step process we cover in this episode. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 133 | Athlete Wins 7.0 | 17 Aug 2023 | 00:20:30 | |
In this episode, we dive into 3 different ACLer stories, their process, and where they're at now. We pull lessons from these wins (and losses) and what it took to get to get them to get where they are. It's not all linear or sunshine and rainbows. And, no journey is the same. If you need a little lift, this one is for you. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 132 | Know Your Numbers (KYN) for ACL Rehab | 10 Aug 2023 | 00:31:27 | |
In this episode, we dive into the current state of ACL rehab, a 3-step KPI framework, subjective vs. objective assessments, and a very practical application to grab your own numbers and be in charge of your ACL rehab process. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 239 | Normalize the Setback: Why Never Having One Can Be A Problem in ACL Rehab | 28 Aug 2025 | 00:19:06 | |
In this episode, we break down why flare-ups and setbacks in ACL rehab are not only normal but expected when you’re pushing your limits. Using simple analogies like “bandwidth” and the “cup”, we explain how setbacks are data points, not failures, and why the real danger is often being underloaded rather than pushing too far. You’ll hear how to adapt when your knee acts up, why flare-ups + setbacks should be reframed as part of the growth process, and how the goal is building resilience and long-term progress—not perfection day to day. | |||
| 131 | Self-Audit for Movement Compensations in ACL Rehab Without Fancy Tools | 03 Aug 2023 | 00:33:24 | |
In this episode, we cover a very practical application on how you can audit and improve compensations you might be dealing with in the ACL rehab process. We discuss a very solid paper that shed light on this problem and how you can start using our two go-to strategies today without any fancy tools to make some solid gains in your ACL rehab. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 130 | Your Uninjured Side Hurts. Why? | 27 Jul 2023 | 00:24:35 | |
In this episode, we cover a very common question we get - why does the uninjured side hurt? If this is you, this episode will help shed some light on why that might be happening and what you can do about it. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 129 | Showing Up On the Bad Days - ACL Rehab Edition | 20 Jul 2023 | 00:11:17 | |
In this episode, we dive into a mindset-focused episode for our ACLers. For a process that's so long, it's inevitable to have a setback or a bad day. Instead of focusing on those bad days, it's about becoming a better average. How does that look? Check out the episode for some practical applications on how you can put that to use and have a better long game. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 128 | Vetting Your Rehab Professional and Clinic for ACL Rehab - Beyond the Certifications and "Sports Clinic" | 13 Jul 2023 | 00:35:55 | |
In this episode, we cover a question an ACLer asks in terms of finding the right rehab professional to be your guide and the best clinic for your environment. It's important to vett this professional and clinic as it can arguably make or break your entire process. A must listen episode. If you found value in today's episode, please leave a quick review so we can continue to reach more ACLers, healthcare professionals, supporting roles, and more. The goal is to redefine ACL rehab and elevate the standard of care. | |||
| 127 | ACL Rehab Must Do - 1 Prehab Visit | 07 Jul 2023 | 00:16:08 | |
In this episode, we cover why even 1 prehab visit prior to ACL surgery can be an absolute game-changer for your process. | |||
| 126 | The "Nice" PT | 29 Jun 2023 | 00:13:27 | |
In this episode, we discuss a common reason ACLers stick with their PT despite feeling stuck or lost and how you can navigate this situation. | |||
| 125 | ACL Surgery Essential - Planning your PT Early | 22 Jun 2023 | 00:14:55 | |
In this episode, we discuss an essential component to your post-op ACL care-- planning your PT early so you avoid potential delays and can hit the ground running. | |||
| 124 | Dealing with Fear When Returning to Sport after ACL Injury | 15 Jun 2023 | 00:26:16 | |
In this episode, we discuss fear and how to deal with it throughout your ACL journey. Also, check out our new website - filled with tons of VALUE and free ACL resources and goods: www.theaclathlete.com | |||
| 123 | 0 Degrees Extension - Good Enough for ACL Rehab? | 08 Jun 2023 | 00:30:06 | |
In this episode, we discuss optimal extension in ACL rehab, how individual differences can impact what that number is and what the best next steps is if you have been struggling with restoring full extension. Also, check out our new website - filled with tons of VALUE and free ACL resources and goods: www.theaclathlete.com | |||
| 122 | The "Pro Team" Surgeon | 01 Jun 2023 | 00:16:17 | |
In this episode, we discuss building their ACL team and vetting the professionals involved in the process. Also, check out our new website - filled with tons of VALUE and free ACL resources and goods: www.theaclathlete.com | |||
| 238 | Pro Athletes vs. The Rest of Us: The Truth About ACL Surgery Timing | 21 Aug 2025 | 00:22:41 | |
In this episode, we break down why professional athletes often have ACL surgery within days of injury while most people are advised to wait. I share five key differences—from the role of prehab and long-term outcomes to the massive resources, contracts, and career timelines that drive pro athletes into faster surgeries. You’ll also hear why rushing into surgery can set you back, why a “quiet knee” matters most, and why comparing yourself to an NFL or NBA star isn’t the best blueprint for your recovery. | |||
| 121 | Is 9 Months Good Enough for ACL Rehab? | 25 May 2023 | 00:27:21 | |
In this episode, we discuss the 9 month time frame in the ACL space, why it is known as the cutoff for minimizing risk for reinjury and the potential problems that could arise with this framework. Also, check out our new website - filled with tons of VALUE and free ACL resources and goods: www.theaclathlete.com | |||
| 120 | How To Know If You've Torn Your ACL | 18 May 2023 | 00:20:17 | |
In this episode, we discuss how you can identify if you have a suspected ACL injury, common myths surrounding them, and personal experiences from myself and other athletes. Also, check out our new website - filled with tons of VALUE and free ACL resources and goods: www.theaclathlete.com | |||
| 119 | Going to the ER/Urgent Care After A Suspected ACL Injury | 11 May 2023 | 00:17:48 | |
In this episode, we discuss navigating an ER/Urgent care visit after a suspected ACL Injury and what the next steps should look like. Also, check out our new website - filled with tons of VALUE and free ACL resources and goods: www.theaclathlete.com | |||
| 118 | Why Waiting for ACL Surgery Might Be the Best Decision You Ever Make | 04 May 2023 | 00:14:50 | |
In this episode, we discuss the benefits of waiting for ACL surgery. Also, check out our new website - filled with tons of VALUE and free ACL resources and goods: www.theaclathlete.com | |||
| 117 | How Important Is Knee Status Going Into ACL Surgery? | 27 Apr 2023 | 00:20:57 | |
In this episode, the importance of the status of the knee before ACL surgery and how it impacts the post op phases that follow. Also, check out our new website - filled with tons of VALUE and free ACL resources and goods: www.theaclathlete.com | |||
| 116 | One Key Factor That Sets Good vs. Great ACLers Apart | 20 Apr 2023 | 00:18:46 | |
In this episode, we discuss the one factor that we dial in on with all our ACLers because we see it make a huge difference in their ACL Rehab journey. Also, check out our new website - filled with tons of VALUE and free ACL resources and goods: www.theaclathlete.com | |||
| 115 | How Does a Meniscus Injury Impact Your ACL Rehab and Recovery? | 13 Apr 2023 | 00:24:47 | |
In this episode, we discuss what your journey may look like when you have a meniscus injury in addition to your ACL injury and how that impacts your ACL Rehab. We also dive into my own meniscus experiences along with my ACLRs to highlight some things I realized vs. not - 9 and 15 years later. Also, check out our new website - filled with tons of VALUE and free ACL resources and goods: www.theaclathlete.com | |||
| 114 | The Most Important Phase of ACL Rehab | 06 Apr 2023 | 00:20:23 | |
In this episode, we answer the question: what is the most important Phase of ACL Rehab? | |||
| 113 | Athlete Wins 6.0 | 30 Mar 2023 | 00:28:39 | |
In this episode, we discuss the ins and outs of a specific ACLer story. We share what we see in the athletes who end up with the best outcomes and returning to sport vs. the ones who might not. | |||
| 112 | Breaking Down Compound vs. Isolated Movements in ACL Rehab | 23 Mar 2023 | 00:26:26 | |
In this episode, we talk about compound and isolated movements for your ACL rehab. Which one is better and when? The human body is crazy good at figuring out ways to do a movement, even if you're doing all the "right things". This episode sheds some light on how you can be more targeted in your approach and also some important things to look out for in your ACL rehab process. | |||
| 237 | The $200 Lesson That Could Save Your ACL Rehab | 14 Aug 2025 | 00:26:25 | |
In this episode, I share a personal story about repeatedly trying—and failing—to fix my broken AC, and how it parallels ACL rehab. We dive into why even those with fitness or rehab backgrounds can miss critical blind spots, the hidden costs of “DIY rehab,” and the importance of finding qualified, specialized help. Whether you’re frustrated by slow progress, feeling lost, or piecing together your own program, this is your reminder: the right expert can save you time, energy, and setbacks—while giving you confidence in your comeback. | |||
| 111 | Limb Symmetry Index (LSI) - Is It Helpful for ACL Rehab and Return to Sport? | 16 Mar 2023 | 00:28:08 | |
In this episode, we discuss Limb Symmetry Index -- a common metric used in ACL Rehab and research. We dive into why it is important and how to best utilize it. | |||
| 110 | Answering the Question - When Can You ______ In ACL Rehab? | 09 Mar 2023 | 00:16:50 | |
In this episode, we discuss how to answer difficult questions regarding your timeline and how to understand when it is appropriate to get back to the activities you love. | |||
| 109 | You're Multiple Years Post-Op ACL. Is It Too Late to Rehab? | 02 Mar 2023 | 00:16:57 | |
In this episode, we discuss a common question we get from our ACLers and why it is never too late. | |||