ACL Rehabilitation: Leg PressMan sitting in exercise machine with one foot on platform for leg presses.

Once you can bear weight on your leg without pain, start adding advanced exercises to your workout. Using gym equipment can be a good way to improve overall knee function. Before you begin, talk with a physical therapist or certified athletic trainer. Learn how to use the equipment the right way. Start slowly, and rest between each set. As you feel stronger, increase the number of sets.

CAUTION: Ask your healthcare provider if you’re ready to do this exercise. If you do too much too soon, you could create new knee problems, or even re-injure your knee.

  • Sit with your head and back lined up. Set the machine to the lightest weight. Put your foot on the plate with your knee slightly bent.

  • Push until your leg is almost completely straight. Then slowly and steadily return your leg to its original position.

  • Do 2 sets of 10 repetitions.

  • As your knee gets stronger, begin this exercise with your knee bent at 90 degrees.

Note: Ask your health care provider if you should use one or both legs for this exercise.

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