Home  About  Our Physios  Contact
   Facebook Instagram
Fitness Physio – Sports and Spinal Injury specialists focusing on evidenced based treatments plus blogs, comments, and research updates. Learn more at Fitness Physio.

Book Now

>

ACL Cross Bracing Protocol

If you’ve suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, you may be exploring your treatment options. While surgery is a common route, an innovative alternative called the Cross Bracing Protocol for ACL injuries provides a non-surgical option for suitable candidates. If you're in Newcastle and want to explore this cutting-edge approach, book an assessment with our expert physiotherapists to see if you qualify.

What is the Cross Bracing Protocol for ACL Injuries?

The Cross Bracing Protocol is currently being researched (click here for link to the latest update)  and is a rehabilitation method designed to facilitate the natural healing of a ruptured ACL. By keeping the knee in a controlled, braced position, this protocol supports ligament recovery while you undergo structured rehabilitation under expert guidance. This non-surgical approach has shown promising results for select ACL injury cases.

The treatment begins with strict 90-degree knee flexion in a specialized brace for 2–6 weeks depending on the degree of injury, keeping the torn ACL ends close together to encourage reattachment. This phase is followed by another 4–6 weeks of gradual knee extension, slowly increasing the range of motion while maintaining stability in the brace.

Reassessment with our team and an MRI is performed 12 weeks after the knee has been braced.

Early intervention is critical—ideal candidates must begin treatment within days to weeks of injury and meet specific criteria, such as a clean, proximal ACL tear with good tissue quality. Rehabilitation starts immediately in the first week, incorporating muscle activation, weight-bearing exercises, and neuromuscular training to prevent atrophy and maintain joint function. Over the following months, the program progresses through strength, stability, and sport-specific drills, with many patients achieving a full return to activity in around 6-12 months—without invasive surgery. However, success depends on strict adherence to the bracing protocol and close supervision by a qualified specialist. 

Who is Eligible for Cross Bracing for ACL Injuries in Newcastle?

Not all ACL injuries are the same, and eligibility for Cross Bracing for ACL recovery depends on multiple factors, such as:

  • Timing of injury – Early assessment is essential for the best chance of success.

  • Location and severity of the ACL rupture.

  • Presence of additional knee injuries or complications.

  • Age, activity level, and personal recovery goals.

Why Choose Cross Bracing for ACL Recovery in Newcastle?

One key point of difference in our approach is that we directly collaborate with Dr.Tom Cross, a leading researcher in the Cross Bracing Protocol,  Dr. Ewen Bradbury, a sports medicine specialist and Dr. Luke Dan, a GP currently training to become a sports physician. This collaboration ensures that our patients receive the most up-to-date, research-backed treatment plans, guided by experts at the forefront of ACL rehabilitation.

Additionally, we provide same or next-day access to MRI scans. If you meet the Medicare criteria, your MRI may be gap-free, or you can access scans at a discounted rate if you do not qualify. This ensures a quick and accurate diagnosis, allowing you to start your recovery journey without unnecessary delays.

Booking an assessment with our Newcastle-based physiotherapists ensures a thorough evaluation of your ACL injury. During your consultation, we will:

  • Perform a detailed assessment of your ACL rupture.

  • Discuss your lifestyle, recovery goals, and preferred treatment options.

  • Determine if the Cross Bracing Protocol for ACL injuries is a viable option for your recovery.

  • Provide expert guidance on your next steps toward healing and rehabilitation.

Act Quickly – Early Intervention is Key

The sooner you seek an assessment for Cross Bracing for ACL injuries in Newcastle, the better your chances of benefiting from this non-surgical treatment. Delaying evaluation can reduce the effectiveness of the protocol and limit your treatment options.

Book Your ACL Cross Bracing Assessment in Newcastle Today

Don’t let an ACL injury dictate your mobility and future activity levels. If you’ve recently suffered an ACL rupture and want to explore non-surgical recovery options, contact us today to book your comprehensive assessment.

Find out if Cross Bracing for ACL injuries in Newcastle is the right choice for you and take control of your recovery with our expert physiotherapists.