TECAR Therapy for ACL Injuries: Accelerating Rehabilitation
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is an intra-articular fibrous structure that extends from the medial tibial plateau to the lateral femoral condyle, playing a crucial role in stabilising the knee. The ACL, alongside other supporting structures, is primarily responsible for maintaining anterior stability of the tibia relative to the femur and providing rotational stability to prevent excessive displacement.
Causes and Severity of ACL Injuries
The majority of ACL injuries (approximately 80%) result from non-contact mechanisms (such as sudden directional changes, pivoting, or landing awkwardly), while around 20% are due to direct contact (traumatic incidents). ACL injuries can range from partial to complete tears, with surgical reconstruction often recommended, particularly for active athletes.
ACL injuries may occur in isolation or alongside damage to the medial meniscus or collateral ligaments, most commonly the medial collateral ligament (MCL). When these three structures are injured simultaneously, it is referred to as the ‘unhappy triad’ or O’Donoghue’s triad.
A torn ACL is one of the most challenging injuries among athletes and healthcare professionals due to its long recovery period. A study by Waldén et al. (2016), which followed professional footballers over 15 years and analysed more than 150 cases, found that the average recovery time after surgical ACL reconstruction was 6.6 months to return to training and 7.4 months to resume competition.
Rehabilitation Guidelines Following ACL Surgery
Extensive research has been conducted on effective rehabilitation strategies post-ACL surgery. At Midtown Wellness Covent Garden, our physiotherapy team follows evidence-based protocols to guide patients through each phase of recovery, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Integrating Physiotherapy with TECAR Therapy
To enhance the rehabilitation process, we incorporate TECAR therapy (Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive)during physiotherapy sessions. TECAR therapy is an advanced modality that uses high-frequency electromagnetic energy to stimulate tissue repair, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and accelerate recovery. This treatment is covered by most health insurance plans, providing accessible and effective support for our patients.
Benefits of TECAR Therapy During ACL Rehabilitation:
Pain and Inflammation Management: In the early post-surgical phase, controlling pain and reducing inflammation is critical for initiating knee mobilisation. Using CET (Capacitive Energy Transfer) and RET (Resistive Energy Transfer) at low to moderate intensities helps decrease swelling, alleviate discomfort, and enhance tissue elasticity.
Improved Mobility and Tissue Healing: During passive and active mobility exercises, TECAR therapy, combined with manual physiotherapy techniques, promotes faster recovery. Accessories like FixPads 2.0 allow for hands-free application, enabling simultaneous manual therapy to optimise joint mobility and neuromuscular control.
Collaborative Care with Knee Specialists
At Midtown Wellness Covent Garden, our physiotherapists work closely with leading knee specialists to provide comprehensive care. If necessary, we can facilitate referrals for advanced diagnostic imaging, such as MRI and X-rays, to gain a deeper understanding of your knee injury. This collaborative approach ensures that you receive accurate diagnoses and targeted treatment plans for the best possible recovery outcomes.
Insurance Coverage
At Midtown Wellness Clinic, we are proud to offer TECAR therapy as part of our physiotherapy sessions, covered by major health insurers, including BUPA, BUPA Global, AXA, AXA International, Cigna Global, WPA, Aviva, Healix,and Vitality. For other insurance providers, please check your policy to confirm coverage. This broad insurance acceptance makes it easier for our patients to access high-quality care without financial barriers.
By integrating TECAR therapy into physiotherapy sessions at Midtown Wellness, patients experience more efficient rehabilitation with improved pain relief, faster tissue healing, and enhanced functional recovery. This comprehensive approach supports a safe and effective return to sport, work, and daily activities.
