In the post-ACL reconstruction protocol, what is the initial weight-bearing plan?

In the post-ACL reconstruction protocol, what is the initial weight-bearing plan?

• A. Early weight bearing as tolerated with functional brace
• B. NWB for 6 weeks
• C. Full weight bearing immediately without brace
• D. PWB with crutches for 2 weeks

Answer: (A)

After ACL reconstruction, the rehab approach often emphasizes loading the knee early but safely. Allowing weight bearing as tolerated means patients start putting weight on the leg as pain and swelling allow, rather than forcing a strict limit every day. A functional brace is used to protect the graft while still permitting movement and loading. This combination supports early quadriceps activation, joint nutrition, and range of motion, while reducing the risk of excessive strain on the healing graft. In contrast, keeping weight bearing non-weight bearing for weeks or going full weight bearing without any protection both have drawbacks: the former can lead to stiffness and muscle atrophy, and the latter may risk graft stress. So the initial plan of weight bearing as tolerated with a functional brace best matches common post-ACL protocols.

After ACL reconstruction, the rehab approach often emphasizes loading the knee early but safely. Allowing weight bearing as tolerated means patients start putting weight on the leg as pain and swelling allow, rather than forcing a strict limit every day. A functional brace is used to protect the graft while still permitting movement and loading. This combination supports early quadriceps activation, joint nutrition, and range of motion, while reducing the risk of excessive strain on the healing graft. In contrast, keeping weight bearing non-weight bearing for weeks or going full weight bearing without any protection both have drawbacks: the former can lead to stiffness and muscle atrophy, and the latter may risk graft stress. So the initial plan of weight bearing as tolerated with a functional brace best matches common post-ACL protocols.