Pregnancy abdominal training and ACL non-surgical approach

In our first blog of the year, we are covering two exciting topics; ACL tear conservative management and abdominal training while pregnant.

1. The ACL Revolution: Is Surgery Always Necessary?

For a long time, having an ACL tear meant surgery. But new research, led by researchers like Associate Professor Stephanie Filbay, is proving that the ACL has a remarkable ability to heal itself.

Studies now show that rehabilitation alone can offer outcomes just as good as surgery. In fact, about 50% of people who try rehab first find they don't need surgery at all.

Conservative ACL tear management: The Cross Bracing Protocol (CBP)

The CBP is a specific, non-surgical method designed to help the ligament ends bridge back together.

• The knee is immobilized at a 90-degree angle for four weeks to bring the torn ends closer together, followed by a gradual increase in movement until the brace comes off at week 12.

• They’re staggering. 90% of patients showed signs of ACL healing on MRIs at the 3-month mark.

• For those whose ligaments healed "thick and taut," the return-to-sport rate was 92%.

While only 37% of physios currently discuss this as a primary option, the data is clear—healing without the knife is becoming a reality for many.

2. Pregnancy Myths: To Crunch or Not to Crunch?

If you've ever been told to avoid abdominal exercises (like crunches) during pregnancy to prevent "separation," you’ve been following outdated advice.

New research from Alana Leandro Cabral is finally giving pregnant women the green light to keep their core strong.

What the Science Says:

• Crunches are Safe: Targeted abdominal exercises—including rectus abdominis (crunch-style) movements—did not worsen abdominal separation (diastasis recti).

• Pelvic Floor Safety: These exercises were found to be safe for the pelvic floor, though they aren't a replacement for specific pelvic floor training.

You don’t have to wrap yourself in bubble wrap. Maintaining core strength through supervised exercise is safe and encouraged for a healthy pregnancy.