253 | The Most Underrated Load Management Tool After ACL Surgery

In this episode, we break down one of the most underrated, yet most influential parts of ACL rehab: step count. While most athletes focus on rehab, graft types, or protocol milestones, the real day-to-day needle-mover early on is often the simplest: how much time you spend on your feet. I share the exact step-count framework I use with athletes, including how to set realistic baselines, manage swelling, avoid early setbacks, and apply the “dimmer switch” principle to rebuild tolerance week by week. From crutch progressions to real-life examples of how "short walks" and trips can derail an early-phase knee, this episode gives ACLers and clinicians a practical blueprint for keeping the knee quiet, happy, and ready for the bigger work ahead. If you’re in the first 6–12 weeks after injury or surgery, this might be the most important episode you listen to._________Want a clear plan for your ACL rehab?1 on 1 Remote ACL Coaching is for ACLers who are tired of guessing. Objective testing so you know you are actually ready, a custom + structured program built around your goals, and an expert ACL coach in your corner from anywhere in the world. You will always know where you are, where you are going, and what to do next.Start with a free consult call: www.theaclathlete.com/coaching_________Free weekly newsletterThe ACL Athlete VALUE Newsletter. ACL advice, go-to exercises, research breakdowns, and the frameworks we use._________More from The ACL AthleteWebsite: www.theaclathlete.comSubmit a topic or question for a future podcast episodeInstagram: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptEmail: [email protected]