VALDCAST Dr Roula Kotsifaki - Revolutionizing ACL Recovery
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May 21, 2025 Dr Roula Kotsifaki, physiotherapist and head of Aspetar’s assessment unit with a PhD in computer modeling, discusses modern ACL recovery research. She covers shifts in return timelines, why tissue healing and MRI are not the whole story, the value of objective performance metrics like vertical jumps, accessible testing tech, and how rehab progression strongly predicts return to pivoting sports.
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Timelines Aren't The Whole Answer
- ACL return-to-play timelines have swung between 6 months, 9 months and 2 years as evidence evolved.
- Roula Kotsifaki argues timelines alone are insufficient and research must guide changing practice.
Use MRI As A Minimum, Not A Gate
- Do not treat imaging (MRI) as the primary return-to-sport criterion; treat the athlete.
- Use tissue-healing timelines as minimum constraints but progress based on objective functional criteria.
Set Thresholds, Then Personalize Goals
- Set objective thresholds to align clinicians and track progress, but personalize goals by sport and position.
- Restore strength, motor control and complete sport-specific training before discharge.