Return to training from ACL reco (patellar)

[Chode]

You will forgive me Mark, I have used the search function for hours trying to find previously posted info on this but with no definitive answers. Probably my fault and not Google.

Before you read the rest know that I purchased the third edition last week, I'm hoping it has crossed the pacific by now.

I'm about 8 weeks out from my ACL reconstruction (patellar) and I know from what I have read you had the same operation at 38(?) and returned to training quite quickly. I have returned to the gym and have no problems with squat depth or form, I have kept it light (~100 lbs) and high reps with no patellar tendon trouble, but I want to start ramping it up. I'm just looking for information from your personal experience regarding returning to training and anyone else you may have helped through rehab.

My physio is useless when it comes to asking him these things After our discussion on returning to full squats last week I doubt I'll be giving him any more of my money. I just don't want to be a pussy about my rehab. I'm aware the correctly performed squat is ACL/PCL neutral event. I just don't want to be crippled by patellar tendonitis in a couple of weeks.

[Mark Rippetoe]

If you're concerned about patellar tendinitis, quite doing the high reps. They are famous for producing overuse injuries. I didn't do high reps for my knee rehab. Get back on a straight novice-type linear progression and don't go up too fast. You're not rehabbing now, you're returning to strength.

[steelerfan]

I had the same surgery roughly 14 years ago and I wish I would of knew of Rip and SS back then, then maybe my knee wouldn't be so jacked up.. I don't know if the doc. screwed up but I never have been able to get full range of motion in the extension of my leg .. However before doing low bar squats I had trouble just squating down to line up a putt on the course, the knee just wouldn't bend that far. Now it's much better from doing squats and I hit a new personal PR last Sat. on intesnity day with a 375x5 ... So a big thanks to Rip and his program and I wish th OP good luck with getting back to full strength & beyond .. I really don't think you can use a better tool for that, I wish I had knowledge of it way back then ...