In sports, injuries happen. For Hope, a varsity cheerleader at St. Hubert’s Catholic High School, tearing her right ACL was a major setback. As a two-time UCA National Champion and First Team All-Catholic cheerleader, Hope knew the hard work it would take to get back on the mat — and she was ready for it despite her ACL injury.
Starting the Recovery
Hope’s recovery began with exercises to restore her knee’s range of motion and retrain her muscles. These early sessions were crucial to ensure her knee functioned properly. Once her mobility improved, we focused on strength and stability exercises to support her injured leg.
Building Strength
When she reached a point where her knee felt stronger, we tested her progress using a dynamometer, comparing the strength of her injured leg with her healthy one. Our goal was to get her injured leg within 15% of the other, a key milestone in her rehab. Achieving this step gave her the confidence she needed to move forward.
Preparing for Cheerleading
With her strength restored, Hope began advanced training that included plyometric drills — important for rebuilding her explosive movements. We also used VALD force plates to track her jumps and landings, ensuring she was ready for the demands of cheerleading.
Back to Cheer
As her therapy progressed, Hope worked on cheer-specific routines, including jumps and aerobic drills. This stage helped her regain her skills while rebuilding endurance and confidence, preparing her for a full return to the mat.
A Stronger Return
Hope’s recovery wasn’t just about healing; it was about coming back better. Through consistent effort and focus, she overcame the challenges of her injury and is now back doing what she loves. We’re proud to have been part of her journey and excited to see what she’ll achieve next.
Hope’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience required in ACL injury recovery. With determination, patience, and the right support, she overcame the physical and mental challenges to regain her strength and confidence. Reach out to our team today to learn how we can help you through your own journey to healing, just like Hope did. Let’s get you back to doing what you love!