Weekend Badminton Player with ACL Injury

Presenting Complaint

Hafiz sustained an ACL tear in his left knee during a competitive badminton game when he landed awkwardly from a jump smash. He heard a popping sound and experienced immediate swelling and instability. After MRI confirmation and orthopaedic consultation, he underwent ACL reconstruction using a hamstring graft and was referred for post-surgical physiotherapy.

Assessment Findings

Post-operative assessment at week 2 showed significant quadriceps inhibition and atrophy. Knee range of motion was limited to 0-70 degrees. Moderate effusion was present. Gait was antalgic with crutch dependence. Hamstring strength was reduced bilaterally. Proprioception and balance were significantly impaired on the affected side.

Treatment Plan

• Phase 1 (Weeks 1-4): Swelling management, quad activation, ROM restoration to 90 degrees, patellar mobilisation
• Phase 2 (Weeks 5-8): Progressive strengthening, stationary cycling, full ROM restoration, gait normalisation
• Phase 3 (Weeks 9-16): Functional strengthening, single-leg exercises, proprioceptive training, light jogging introduction
• Phase 4 (Weeks 17-24): Sport-specific drills, agility training, plyometrics, return-to-sport testing
• Cryotherapy and elevation post-exercise throughout rehabilitation
• Home exercise program updated at each phase transition

Outcome

After 6 months of structured rehabilitation, Hafiz successfully returned to recreational badminton. He achieved quadriceps strength symmetry above 90% and passed all return-to-sport functional tests. He continues maintenance exercises and wears a supportive knee brace during badminton sessions as a precaution.