ACL Rehab Live Patient Case Series Part 5: Jumping
Into Return to Participation

Presented by Phil Plisky and Kyle Matsel

12-Month Subscription

Unlimited access to:

  • Thousands of CE Courses
  • Patient Education
  • Home Exercise Program
  • And more
Video Runtime: 64 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 42 Minutes

This course is the fifth in a series that documents the real-world progress of an athlete as he journeys through ACL reconstruction rehabilitation. This advanced course provides rehabilitation professionals with the specialized knowledge and practical skills needed to effectively enhance explosive power using plyometrics programming in ACL reconstruction rehabilitation programs. The course emphasizes the importance of implementing evidence-based injury prevention programming and introduces the criteria and discussion related to return to participation for an actual patient.

Actual footage from the athlete’s treatment session will offer practical application, insights, and real-time problem-solving into the successful integration of these techniques.

Learning Objectives
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of various plyometric exercises in enhancing power and strength post ACL reconstruction
  • Design comprehensive injury prevention programs that integrate plyometrics to reduce the risk of future ACL injuries
  • Synthesize evidence-based research to develop protocols for safe and effective return to participation following ACL reconstruction
  • Formulate individualized return-to-participation plans that address the unique needs and goals of athletes post ACL reconstruction
  • Implement advanced plyometric training techniques to optimize functional recovery and athletic performance post ACL reconstruction
  • Integrate multidisciplinary approaches, including strength training, plyometrics, and neuromuscular training, into injury prevention programs

Meet your instructors

Phil Plisky

Dr. Phil Plisky is a professor in the University of Evansville’s Doctor of Physical Therapy and PhD in Health Professions Education programs. He is the host of the Medbridge Rehab and Performance Lab podcast and founder of the Coaches Club at

Read full bio

Kyle Matsel

Dr. Matsel is a tenured associate professor at the University of Evansville, where he teaches in the musculoskeletal content areas of the Doctor of Physical Therapy curriculum. He received his doctor of physical therapy degree from the University of Evansville in 2011 and his PhD in rehabilitation sciences from the University…

Read full bio

Chapters & learning objectives

Phase VI (12–24 Weeks): Testing Power Generation

1. Phase VI (12–24 Weeks): Testing Power Generation

This chapter focuses on the methodologies and significance of testing explosiveness and impact control in patients who are recovering from ACL reconstruction. By the end of this chapter, the learner will be equipped with the expertise to accurately perform hop testing and interpret the results to guide a safe and effective return to high-level physical activity.

Phase VII (6–9 Months): Return to Participation

2. Phase VII (6–9 Months): Return to Participation

In this chapter, guidelines for beginning to return to sport participation following ACL reconstruction are discussed. Learners will discover how to navigate return-to-participation conversations based on multiple factors from various stakeholders and witness the importance of continuing monitoring during the transition.

Plyometrics for Power

3. Plyometrics for Power

In this chapter, Drs. Plisky and Matsel provide insight into the role plyometric exercises play in rebuilding and enhancing power in patients recovering from ACL reconstruction.