Don’t Underestimate The Mental Side Of ACL Rehab

ACL rehab is not ONLY a physical journey. ACL rehab is as much a metal battle as it is a physical battle.

It’s vital in ACL rehab to acknowledge the mental side of the journey. Often ACL rehab is described as a marathon not a sprint. I’ve personally never done a full marathon but I’ve done a half marathon and I think the mental battle is actually more difficult than the physical component.

There are many ups and downs in ACL rehab. There are real mountain top moments of joy and accomplishment and then there are difficult moments filled with frustration and fears. This is very normal and to be expected in ACL rehab.

Whether you’re preparing for surgery, in the first few weeks after surgery, or about to return to training and sport there are unique challenges to be faced in each phase of your rehab. Wherever you are in the journey you will have good days and bad days. That is why it is vital to have a supportive network to help you through the difficult parts and celebrate with you as you journey through them.

End of the day the ACL rehab Journey requires some serious mental grit. I took a lot about athletes coming back better post injury. This is not only physically but also mentally. When done properly ACL rehab will help you develop mental toughness and a host of other really valuable skills.

What matters if what you do with the negative feelings you will inevitably experience along the journey. Let me encourage to pause and reflect on the progress you have made and remind yourself why you’re working so hard to return to the sport or activity you love.