Osteopathy • Sports Chiropractic • Exercise Physiology • Exercise Rehab
ACL Injury Recovery & Rehabilitation in Melbourne’s West
Serving Newport • Ascot Vale • Bacchus Marsh
Trusted Care for ACL Injuries
An ACL injury can be one of the most frustrating setbacks in sport — but with the right team behind you, you can return to peak performance safely and confidently.
At Alpha Sports Medicine, our experienced Osteopaths, Sports Chiropractors, and Exercise Physiologists work together to provide a complete, evidence-based rehabilitation program tailored to your needs.
Osteopath, Sports Chiro, Exercise Physio & Exercise Rehab
Understanding Your ACL Injury
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a key stabilising ligament in your knee. Injuries can occur during sports that involve sudden stops, hyperextensions, pivots, or changes of direction — such as football, netball, soccer, and basketball.
ACL injuries can range from mild sprains to complete tears, and often require a structured rehabilitation program to restore stability, strength, and confidence.
Common Symptoms of ACL Rupture can include:
A popping sound at the time of injury – many people report hearing or feeling a “pop” in the knee.
Immediate pain – often severe enough to stop activity right away.
Rapid swelling – usually within the first few hours after injury.
Knee instability – a feeling of the knee “giving way” during movement or when bearing weight.
Loss of range of motion – difficulty straightening or bending the knee fully.
Difficulty walking or continuing sport – particularly with pivoting, twisting, or sudden changes in direction.

Common Causes of ACL Injury
ACL Injury can arise from various factors, including:
Sports involving rapid pivoting, twisting, or cutting movements such as football, netball, and soccer, can place significant stress on the ACL, leading to injury.
Jumping and landing awkwardly, particularly with poor knee alignment or insufficient control, is a frequent cause of ACL tears.
Collisions or tackles that apply force to the knee may overstretch or rupture the ligament.
Hyperextending the knee joint during sport or high-impact activity can strain or tear the ACL.
Weakness or imbalance in the surrounding muscles may increase the risk of ACL injury, especially during demanding activities.

Alpha Sports Medicine
Our Multidisciplinary ACL Recovery Approach
We believe in a whole-team, whole-body approach to ACL injury care:
Our team will assess your knee function, identify the severity of the injury, and help coordinate imaging or surgical referrals if needed. We work with great surgeons all over Victoria to help you find the right fit.
Hands-on treatment to address pain, swelling, joint mobility, and compensatory movement patterns that develop after injury.
Progressive, structured programs to rebuild knee strength, improve proprioception, and prepare your body for safe return to sport.
Individualised plans for both non-surgical and post-surgical ACL rehabilitation.Objective strength and movement assessments to ensure you’re physically ready for the demands of your sport.
ACL Injury Treatment
We Understand Athletes at Alpha Sports Medicine
- Extensive Sports Experience – We’ve worked on-field with high-level sporting clubs across Melbourne, giving us unique insight into return-to-play demands.
- Team-Based Care – You’ll have access to Osteopathy, Sports Chiropractic, Exercise Physiology, and Exercise Rehab — all under one roof. We also work closely with your surgical team to ensure your optimum recovery.
- Convenient Locations – Our clinics in Newport, Ascot Vale, and Bacchus Marsh are easily accessible for athletes across Melbourne’s west.
Your Recovery Timeline
- Early Stage: Reduce swelling, restore range of motion, activate surrounding muscles.
- Mid Stage: Build knee stability, balance, and functional strength.
- Final Stage: Sport-specific drills, agility training, and return-to-play clearance.

Read More About Neck Pain
If you’re experiencing an ACL Injury, whether from sport, training, or everyday activity, our ALPHA team is here to support your recovery.
Book with Alpha Sports Medicine today at our Newport, Ascot Vale, or Bacchus Marsh clinic and take the first step towards a strong, confident return to sport.
Learn More About ACL Injury
What causes neck pain, and how does osteopathy treat it?
Neck pain can result from factors such as poor posture, muscle strain, whiplash injuries, or degenerative changes in the cervical spine. Osteopathy treats neck pain by using manual therapy techniques to release muscle tension, mobilize stiff joints, and restore optimal function to the neck and surrounding structures.
How can osteopaths help with chronic neck pain?
Osteopaths for neck pain can help by addressing underlying musculoskeletal dysfunctions, improving spinal mobility, reducing pain sensitivity, and restoring overall physical function. Osteopathic treatment aims to break the pain cycle, promote tissue healing, and enhance the body’s self-healing mechanisms.
Can osteopathy be used as a preventive measure for neck pain?
Yes, osteopathy can be used as a preventive measure for neck pain by addressing underlying musculoskeletal imbalances, promoting proper posture and body mechanics, and providing education on ergonomic principles and self-care strategies.
Can stress and tension contribute to neck pain?
Yes, stress and tension can contribute to neck pain by causing muscle tightness, stiffness, and discomfort. Osteopathy can help reduce stress-related tension in the neck and shoulders by releasing muscle tension, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation through manual therapy techniques and stress management strategies.
How long does it typically take to see improvement in neck-related headaches or migraines with osteopathic treatment?
Osteopathic treatment for neck-related headaches and migraines can vary depending on factors like severity of symptoms, the underlying cause of the headaches, and individual response to treatment. Some people may experience significant relief after just a few sessions, while others may require more extensive treatment over time.