Click on a phase number to learn more.

• 1

• 2

• 3

• 4

• 5

• 6

• • Pain Relief

    Reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation are common goals in this phase of recovery. Injury protection, elevation, appropriate medications, compression, and patient education are important.

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• • Introduce Movement

    Pain-free passive, manual therapy, active range of motion, and cardiorespiratory exercises, are indicated here. Education about pain and a positive attitude may help.

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• • Joint Protection

    Education on controlling joint motion during daily activities occurs with this key phase. Practicing proper postural alignment for common movement patterns is important for long term stability and pain relief.

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• • Strengthening

    Progressive loading of healing soft tissues, the reintroduction of low-stress neuromuscular reeducation, balance training, and basic functional activities are part of this rehabilitation phase.

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• • Functional Retraining

    Progressing strengthening exercises, improving flexibility, and advanced balance exercises are part of phase 4. Resuming functional movement (e.g. sports movements) occurs in this phase.

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• • Recovery & Prevention

    Functional movements are progressed, a controlled re-introduction to sports or challenging environments is initiated. Continued strengthening, flexibility, balance, endurance, and goal-specific training occurs during this phase. Education and future injury prevention are discussed.

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