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Peptide Therapy: For ACL Rehab

Peptide Therapy: For ACL Rehab

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Recovering from an ACL injury can be challenging, but with the right tools and strategies, you can improve your outcomes. Peptide Therapy: For ACL Rehab is a comprehensive guide that combines evidence-based practices with the latest in peptide therapy to support recovery and long-term health.

Written by Dr. Brandon Vaughn, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, this guide provides clear, actionable protocols tailored to each stage of recovery.

What’s Inside:

  • Phase-Specific Recovery Protocols: Step-by-step guidance for using peptides like BPC-157, TB-500, CJC-1295, and IGF-1 LR3 during each stage of ACL rehab.
  • Nutritional Support: Practical recommendations for optimizing recovery through diet and supplementation.
  • Case Studies: Real-world examples showing how peptides can accelerate healing and reduce downtime.
  • Safety Guidelines: Tips for sourcing, reconstituting, and administering peptides responsibly.

Who Is This For?

  • Physical Therapists: Gain insights into incorporating peptide therapy into your practice.
  • ACL Patients: Learn how to actively support your recovery with targeted strategies.
  • Athletes and Enthusiasts: Reduce injury risk and improve recovery with peptide-based solutions.

Why This Guide?

Brandon Vaughn shares over 15 years of clinical experience, combining innovative therapies with practical recovery advice. This guide is designed to provide a balanced and evidence-based approach to ACL rehabilitation.

Stay Updated:

Follow Brandon on Instagram for the latest updates on peptide therapy and recovery tips: @bvthept.

Start improving your recovery today. Download Peptide Therapy: For ACL Rehab and explore how peptides can make a difference in your healing process.

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Patellar Tendinopathy: A Pitfall of ACL Reconstruction Rehab

ACL reconstruction is a common surgical procedure that aims to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee. While the surgery is successful in restoring knee stability, it often leads to a long and challenging rehabilitation period. One of the complications that can arise during ACL reconstruction rehab is patellar tendinopathy, a condition that affects the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for patellar tendinopathy during ACL reconstruction rehab.

Causes:
Patellar tendinopathy can develop due to several reasons, including overuse, repetitive stress, and biomechanical imbalances. In the case of ACL reconstruction rehab, it can occur due to the following reasons:

  1. Increased stress on the patellar tendon due to altered biomechanics after surgery.
  2. Overuse of the patellar tendon during the rehabilitation exercises.
  3. Early return to sports or physical activities before the patellar tendon has fully healed.

Symptoms:
The most common symptom of patellar tendinopathy is pain in the knee, particularly in the area just below the kneecap. The pain can be sharp or dull, and it may worsen with activities that involve bending the knee, such as squatting or jumping. Other symptoms may include:

  1. Swelling and stiffness in the knee.
  2. Tenderness in the area just below the kneecap.
  3. Limited range of motion in the knee.

Treatment:
The primary goal of treating patellar tendinopathy during ACL reconstruction rehab is to reduce pain and inflammation while promoting healing of the tendon. Here are some treatment options that may be recommended:

  1. Rest and activity modification: Resting the knee and avoiding activities that exacerbate pain can help reduce stress on the patellar tendon. Your physical therapist may recommend modifying your activity level to avoid aggravating the tendon.
  2. Heavy slow resistance training: Research has shown that heavy slow resistance (HSR) training can be an effective treatment for patellar tendinopathy. HSR involves lifting weights slowly and under high tension, which can stimulate tendon healing and promote strength gains. Your physical therapist can design an HSR program tailored to your needs and goals.
  3. Eccentric exercise: Eccentric exercises involve lengthening the muscle while under tension, which can help strengthen the tendon and improve its ability to absorb force. Your physical therapist may incorporate eccentric exercises into your rehabilitation program.
  4. Manual therapy: Soft tissue mobilization, massage, and joint mobilization can be useful for reducing pain and improving mobility around the knee.
  5. Biomechanical correction: Your physical therapist may evaluate your movement patterns and identify any biomechanical imbalances that could be contributing to your patellar tendinopathy. Correcting these imbalances with targeted exercises or modifications to your movement patterns can reduce stress on the tendon.

Patellar tendinopathy during ACL reconstruction rehab can be a challenging condition, but with the right treatment, most people can recover and return to their previous level of activity. Treatment options for patellar tendinopathy during ACL reconstruction rehab focus on reducing pain and inflammation while promoting healing of the tendon through exercise and manual therapy. If you experience any symptoms of patellar tendinopathy during ACL reconstruction rehab, it’s essential to seek the help of a qualified physical therapist to develop an appropriate treatment plan.

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Factors for Optimal ACL Surgery Outcome

As a patient of Vertex, you may be considering or have already undergone ACL surgery. Understanding the evidence-based factors that can determine your optimal long-term outcome after surgery is important for your recovery and rehabilitation process.

One of the most important factors to consider is the choice of graft material for ACL reconstruction. Autografts such as hamstring tendons, bone-patellar tendon-bone, and quadriceps tendon have been shown to have better outcomes compared to allografts. Additionally, a well-structured rehabilitation protocol that focuses on regaining range of motion, strength, proprioception, and neuromuscular control is crucial for optimal long-term outcomes. Your physical therapist at Vertex can work with you to create a personalized rehabilitation plan that suits your needs.

Age, knee extension (hyperextension is optimal), cross-sectional size of the graft, associated injuries, surgical technique, and rehabilitation protocol are also important factors to consider. It is essential to have an open and honest conversation with your surgeon about these factors and how they may impact your long-term outcome.

When it comes to finding information online, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the sea of information available. At Vertex, we prioritize evidence-based practice and aim to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information. References used in this blog post include:

By staying informed and actively participating in your recovery process, you can increase your chances of achieving an optimal long-term outcome after ACL surgery. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and support throughout your recovery journey.

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What Is the Revascularization Phase After ACL Surgery? | Columbia SC Physical Therapy

If you’ve recently had ACL reconstruction surgery, your knee is now going through several phases of healing—and one of the most critical (but least talked about) is the revascularization phase.

At Vertex PT Specialists, we help patients across Columbia, Cayce, and Irmo, SC safely navigate this crucial stage so they can get back to sport, training, or everyday life without setbacks.

What Is the Revascularization Phase?

After ACL reconstruction, your surgeon typically uses a graft—often a patellar tendon, hamstring tendon, or quadriceps tendon—to replace the damaged ligament. That graft is initially avascular, meaning it doesn’t have its own blood supply.

Over the next several weeks, your body begins a process called revascularization, in which new blood vessels form within the graft. This helps deliver oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells to the healing tissue, and sets the foundation for long-term graft integration.

Timeline: When Does Revascularization Happen?

  • Starts: Around week 4 post-op
  • Peaks: Between weeks 6–12
  • Clinical significance: This is the time when the graft is biologically weakest, even if you feel stronger

This is one of the most dangerous times to do too much too soon.

⚠️ Why You Shouldn’t Rush ACL Rehab During This Phase

Even if the swelling has gone down and your range of motion is improving, the graft is still structurally vulnerable. This is when a misstep—like trying to jog early, jump, or pivot—can lead to a re-tear or failed reconstruction.

Our Columbia-based ACL physical therapists often tell patients:

“This is when you feel good—but the graft isn’t ready yet.”

✅ What You Should Focus On Instead

During this phase of ACL rehab, your physical therapist will progress you through targeted exercises that promote healing without overstressing the graft. These may include:

  • Active and assisted range of motion to maintain mobility
  • Early quadriceps and hamstring activation, including isometrics and light band work
  • Swelling and inflammation control to support tissue healing
  • Progressive weight-bearing as tolerated, focusing on quality of movement
  • Foundational glute, trunk, and hip stability exercises to prepare for loading phases

As your knee tolerates more, your therapist will begin layering in low-load strength work and neuromuscular control drills that build toward return-to-sport milestones. The goal during revascularization is steady, structured progression—not stagnation or aggressive timelines.

Clinical Insight from Vertex PT

At Vertex PT Specialists, we see a high volume of ACL reconstructions, especially among athletes, tactical professionals, and active adults in the Midlands region of South Carolina. Our experience has shown that:

  • Skipping ahead during the revascularization phase increases the risk of graft failure
  • Adherence to evidence-based protocols yields faster return-to-sport timelines and lower reinjury rates

Every rehab plan is individualized, based on graft type, sport demands, and tissue healing.

ACL Physical Therapy in Columbia, SC

If you’re looking for ACL rehabilitation near Columbia, SC, you’re in the right place.

At Vertex PT, we help patients through every stage of the ACL recovery process—including the often-overlooked revascularization phase. With clinic locations in Cayce, Irmo, and Downtown Columbia, we’re trusted by orthopedic surgeons, coaches, and athletes alike.

Ready to Start Rehab or Reassess Your Current Plan?

Whether you’re 4 days or 4 weeks post-op, we’ll build a program that meets you where you are.

Contact Us Today

Reference

Sawyer GA, Anderson BC, Christiansen BA. The Revascularization Phase of Tendon and Ligament Healing and its Relationship with Fibrosis. Curr Rheumatol Rep. 2021 Feb 10;23(3):16. doi: 10.1007/s11926-021-00972-y.

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Not All ACL Injuries Require Surgery: Understanding Your OptionsPictured above is the iconic statue of Mickey Mantle outside of Oklahoma City’s Bricktown Ballpark. Mantle, the legendary New York Yankees outfielder, started his rookie year in 1951. In Game 2 of the World Series that same year, he sustained a right ACL injury that was never reconstructed or repaired. Despite this, Mantle went on to win 3 MVP awards and a Triple Crown in 1956—all without a functional ACL. What does this tell us? Mantle was what we call a “Coper”—someone who can function at a high level despite having a torn ACL. The ACL: Why It Matters The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the main stabilizers of the knee joint. Its role is to: Prevent the shin bone (tibia) from sliding forward on the thigh bone (femur) Provide stability for cutting, pivoting, and side-to-side movements ACL tears are common, especially in athletes. One study cites an incidence of 68.6 per 100,000 people. Contact injuries: when another player collides with your knee in a way that ruptures the ligament Non-contact injuries: more common, often from planting and turning, or a hyperextension moment Research suggests up to 75% of ACL ruptures are non-contact. Female athletes are at higher risk due to anatomical, hormonal, and neuromuscular differences. The “Rule of Thirds” After an ACL Tear Recovery after an ACL tear doesn’t look the same for everyone. Experts often use the rule of thirds: One-third can resume normal activities without limitations (copers) One-third require modifications to improve stability One-third need an ACL reconstruction to return to their desired activities Do You Really Need ACL Surgery? The answer depends on your activity goals: Weekend warrior runners: Surgery may or may not be needed, depending on knee stability after rehab. Active parents: If your goal is walking, light exercise, or playing with your kids, you may not need surgery. Competitive athletes: For those who cut, pivot, and jump in high-demand sports, surgery is often required. Why Pre-Hab Matters Pre-habilitation (pre-hab) before surgery—or instead of surgery—is key for better outcomes. Pre-hab focuses on: Reducing swelling Restoring muscle activation and firing Improving movement patterns Setting realistic expectations Many patients find that after pre-hab, they can do everything they want without surgery—meaning they may be a coper. Why See a Physical Therapist First? When an ACL injury happens, your first step should be a consult with a physical therapist. Here’s why: PTs can assess whether you may function without surgery PTs see many post-surgical patients and can recommend trusted orthopedic surgeons if needed PTs can start your recovery immediately, restoring range of motion and function faster PT gives you the best chance at returning to activity—with or without surgery The Bottom Line Not every ACL tear needs surgery. Some people thrive with rehab alone, while others require reconstruction to achieve their goals. Your activity demands, goals, and response to pre-hab should guide the decision. Start with a physical therapist—you’ll get clear guidance, an individualized plan, and a faster path to recovery. References Plutnicki, K. (2014, May 4). Mantle’s Knee Injury Was Just the Start. NY Times Kaplan, Y. Identifying Individuals With an Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Deficient Knee as Copers and Noncopers: A Narrative Literature Review. Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy, 2011; 41(10), 758–766. Boden, B., Sheehan, F., Torg, J., Hewett, T. Non-contact ACL Injuries: Mechanisms and Risk Factors. J Am Acad Orthop Surg, 2010; 18(9): 520–527.

Pictured above is the iconic statue of Mickey Mantle outside of Oklahoma City’s Bricktown Ballpark. Mantle, the legendary New York Yankees outfielder, started his rookie year in 1951. In Game 2 of the World Series that same year, he sustained a right ACL injury that was never reconstructed or repaired.

Despite this, Mantle went on to win 3 MVP awards and a Triple Crown in 1956—all without a functional ACL. What does this tell us? Mantle was what we call a “Coper”—someone who can function at a high level despite having a torn ACL.

The ACL: Why It Matters

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the main stabilizers of the knee joint. Its role is to:

  • Prevent the shin bone (tibia) from sliding forward on the thigh bone (femur)
  • Provide stability for cutting, pivoting, and side-to-side movements

ACL tears are common, especially in athletes. One study cites an incidence of 68.6 per 100,000 people.

  • Contact injuries: when another player collides with your knee in a way that ruptures the ligament
  • Non-contact injuries: more common, often from planting and turning, or a hyperextension moment

Research suggests up to 75% of ACL ruptures are non-contact. Female athletes are at higher risk due to anatomical, hormonal, and neuromuscular differences.

The “Rule of Thirds” After an ACL Tear

Recovery after an ACL tear doesn’t look the same for everyone. Experts often use the rule of thirds:

  • One-third can resume normal activities without limitations (copers)
  • One-third require modifications to improve stability
  • One-third need an ACL reconstruction to return to their desired activities

Do You Really Need ACL Surgery?

The answer depends on your activity goals:

  • Weekend warrior runners: Surgery may or may not be needed, depending on knee stability after rehab.
  • Active parents: If your goal is walking, light exercise, or playing with your kids, you may not need surgery.
  • Competitive athletes: For those who cut, pivot, and jump in high-demand sports, surgery is often required.

Why Pre-Hab Matters

Pre-habilitation (pre-hab) before surgery—or instead of surgery—is key for better outcomes. Pre-hab focuses on:

  • Reducing swelling
  • Restoring muscle activation and firing
  • Improving movement patterns
  • Setting realistic expectations

Many patients find that after pre-hab, they can do everything they want without surgery—meaning they may be a coper.

Why See a Physical Therapist First?

When an ACL injury happens, your first step should be a consult with a physical therapist. Here’s why:

  • PTs can assess whether you may function without surgery
  • PTs see many post-surgical patients and can recommend trusted orthopedic surgeons if needed
  • PTs can start your recovery immediately, restoring range of motion and function faster
  • PT gives you the best chance at returning to activity—with or without surgery

The Bottom Line

Not every ACL tear needs surgery. Some people thrive with rehab alone, while others require reconstruction to achieve their goals. Your activity demands, goals, and response to pre-hab should guide the decision.

Start with a physical therapist—you’ll get clear guidance, an individualized plan, and a faster path to recovery.

References

  • Plutnicki, K. (2014, May 4). Mantle’s Knee Injury Was Just the Start. NY Times

  • Kaplan, Y. Identifying Individuals With an Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Deficient Knee as Copers and Noncopers: A Narrative Literature Review. Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy, 2011; 41(10), 758–766.

  • Boden, B., Sheehan, F., Torg, J., Hewett, T. Non-contact ACL Injuries: Mechanisms and Risk Factors. J Am Acad Orthop Surg, 2010; 18(9): 520–527.

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