ACL Hot Topics: Knee Extension ROM and Open-Chain
Strengthening (Recorded Webinar)

Presented by Phil Plisky and Kyle Matsel

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Video Runtime: 58 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 2 Minutes

This course is a recording of a previously hosted live webinar event. Polling and question submission features are not available for this recording. Format and structure may differ from those of standard MedBridge courses.

Two of the most debated topics related to ACL reconstruction rehabilitation are obtaining full knee extension ROM and open-kinetic-chain strengthening. While there is tradition in rehabilitation of how this should be managed, there is solid evidence on the importance of incorporating specific treatments with detailed parameters in order to optimize outcomes for our patients. This webinar will enable physical therapy and athletic training professionals to apply the current best evidence with these two complicated topics to their patients.

Join us for this webinar that examines these hot topics in ACL reconstruction rehabilitation. Learn from leading experts in the field, gain practical insights, and acquire strategies that you can use immediately in the clinic.

Learning Objectives

Apply the evidence regarding the complications from not achieving full knee extension ROM after ACLR
Determine strategies for clinically improving full knee extension ROM
Examine the evidence for and against early open-kinetic-chain strengthening after ACLR
Implement a systematic approach to prescribing open-kinetic-chain strengthening after ACLR

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

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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…

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Chapters & learning objectives

1. Getting Full Knee Hyperextension

Knee hyperextension is frequently thought of as pathological, but in reality, researchers have found that restoring full knee extension equal to the opposite knee is essential to prevent complications and achieve high-level performance. This chapter will cover the research regarding how much knee extension is enough in different cases.

2. Strategies and Tactics for Restoring Full Knee Extension

Since full knee extension is important for outcomes, we need clear strategies and tactics to ensure full knee function. Additionally, this chapter will discuss identification of knee extension ROM complications that might require intervention beyond rehabilitation.

3. Open-Kinetic-Chain Strengthening

Open-chain strengthening can increase strength in the quadriceps, but does it increase laxity in the reconstructed ligament? This chapter will explore the research on the topic as well as detail practical strategies for implementing open-kinetic-chain strengthening in rehabilitation.

4. Question and Answer Session

This chapter is a viewer-submitted question and answer session, facilitated by Phil Plisky and Kyle Matsel.

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