Webinar Georgios Kakavas PhD: Periodization in ACL Rehabilitation

Understanding Periodization in ACL Rehabilitation with Dr. Georgios Kakavas

Each year, over 250,000 ACL injuries occur in the U.S., with 65% treated via reconstructive surgery. Effective rehabilitation post-ACL reconstruction is crucial for athletes aiming to regain their pre-injury performance levels. A structured approach using periodization can significantly enhance recovery outcomes, allowing athletes to achieve optimal knee function and return to sports.

What is Periodization in Rehabilitation?

Periodization, traditionally used in sports training, involves structured cycles that target specific recovery and performance goals. This concept is now applied in ACL rehabilitation, going beyond simple post-surgery protocols to a more comprehensive, cyclic approach. By segmenting rehabilitation into phases, physiotherapists can ensure a balanced recovery, reducing the risk of re-injury and promoting gradual improvement in strength, mobility, and psychological readiness.

Holistic ACL Injury Management

An ACL injury impacts more than just the knee. It involves a wide range of challenges, including neurological disruption, psychological trauma, and impaired sensorimotor functions. Addressing these multidimensional aspects of ACL injuries is crucial. Dr. Kakavas emphasizes that periodization allows physical therapists to design recovery strategies that accommodate these factors, ensuring a comprehensive rehabilitation process.

Accreditation & Learning Outcomes

This webinar, accredited by PQK and Kwaliteitshuis Fysiotherapie, provides critical insights for physiotherapists. Participants will learn to apply periodization to ACL rehab, manage both the physical and neurological effects of ACL injuries, and develop return-to-sport strategies that ensure athletes are physically and mentally prepared for competition.

Key Focus Keywords:

• Periodization in ACL rehabilitation
• ACL recovery strategies
• Multidimensional ACL injury management
• Return to sport after ACL injury

Learning goals

Understanding the Role of Periodization in ACL Rehabilitation: Participants will learn how to apply principles of periodization within the context of ACL rehabilitation, moving beyond traditional postoperative protocols to a more structured, cyclical approach that enhances recovery and performance outcomes.

Integrating Multidimensional Considerations in ACL Injury Management: Participants will gain insight into the holistic management of ACL injuries, addressing not only local mechanical dysfunctions but also the psychological, neurological, and sensorimotor disturbances that arise following injury and surgery.

Developing Strategies for Return-to-Sport Planning: Physiotherapists will learn to effectively plan and execute long-term rehabilitation strategies, aiming to return athletes to their desired level of sport, taking into account both physical and psychological readiness through structured rehabilitation periods.