Post-Surgical Rehab in Preparation for RTS Success: A Criterion-Based Guideline

Post-surgical rehabilitation is an ever-evolving process in preparation for a successful return to sport (RTS). With advances in surgical techniques and rehabilitation protocols, we are still faced with variable recurrence rates following the initial injury despite best efforts to prepare these individuals for the demands of sport. This evolution has directed post-operative progression from just a biological healing timeline to consider the “functional” healing timeline as well. Through clinical practice and research, we have been able to quantify and qualify specific metrics and biomechanical alterations seen during rehabilitation following knee joint surgery that can help guide the medical team to improve these deficits before unrestricted RTS. However, current literature regarding a criterion-based rehabilitation model still lacks consistency in the progression toward clinical milestones, specific interventions, and ultimately returning to sports testing. This chapter aims to outline a criterion-based rehabilitation protocol that discusses these metrics for subsequent phase progression in preparation for successful RTS.