Different shoes that could be potentially recommended to a person depending on the source
Different shoes that could be potentially recommended to a person depending on the source
Different shoes that could be potentially recommended to a person depending on the source

What to Expect Before ACL Surgery: The Prehab Phase Explained

Photo of Dr. Michael Maker

By

Dr. Michael Makher

Jun 2, 2025

Get your knee ready for ACL surgery with a focused prehab program. At Pain & Performance Coach LLC, we help patients across Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland regain strength, motion, and control before surgery for a faster recovery after.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It should not be seen as medical advice. Every case and person is unique, so treatment and prevention should be customized by a licensed professional.

Why Prehab is Your ACL Surgery Power-Up

ACL prehabilitation (“prehab”) gives your knee a head start on recovery. At Pain & Performance Coach LLC, we guide clients in Hillsboro, Beaverton, Portland, and surrounding communities like Cornelius, Forest Grove, Banks, and North Plains through this vital phase.

Disclaimer: this information is for your education and should not be considered medical advice regarding diagnosis or treatment recommendations. 


3 Prehab Goals You Should Hit

  1. Eliminate Swelling

Use compression, elevation, and strategic activity to reduce inflammation.

  1. Regain Full Knee Range of Motion

Full extension and at least 125° flexion are your targets.

  1. Restore as much Quad & Hamstring Strength as possible

Compared to your non-injured leg using measured testing (via a dynamometer).

Sample Prehab Activities

  • Stationary biking (pain-free range)

  • Quad sets & straight-leg raises

  • Hamstring curls

  • Heel slides

  • Balance work


Local Care That Delivers Results

Whether you’re in unincorporated Portland or out in Banks or Forest Grove, our personalized prehab plans are based on a number of proven protocols from around the world the Melbourne ACL Rehab Guide, Ohio State University ACL Guidelines, and Aspetar ACL Clinical Practice Guidelines. 

Ready to Get Ahead Before Surgery?

📞 Call Pain & Performance Coach at 971-364-0909 to book an initial evaluation

Don’t Miss Out

Join our newsletter to get latest research insights.

Share this Research

Share this Research

Get your knee ready for ACL surgery with a focused prehab program. At Pain & Performance Coach LLC, we help patients across Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland regain strength, motion, and control before surgery for a faster recovery after.