The Cross Bracing Protocol
The Cross Bracing Protocol is a week by week treatment schedule developed by Drs Merv and Tom Cross. It can be selecting as being appropriate for patients based on the ACL treatment decision framework.
The Cross Bracing Protocol includes:
- The bracing strategy
- Aims of the treatment
- Rehabilitation detail
A summary of this schedule is available to practitioners free of charge below. This can also be downloaded if you are registered.
A detailed program is available here. This provides a weekly detailed guide for patient treatment, with the more detail on the points above. Registration enables us to provide updates as required.
The Cross Bracing Protocol Summary
Log in as a practitioner to view and download this content for offline use
A detailed weekly program can be downloaded here
WEEK | SUMMARY ACTION |
|---|---|
1-4 | Brace locked at 90 degreesCommence anticoagulation medication |
5 | Brace 60 to 90 degrees |
6 | Brace 45 to 90 degrees |
7 | Brace 30 to 120 degreesWeight bear as tolerated with crutches |
8 | Brace 20 to 120 degreesWeight bear without crutches if ableStop anticoagulation medication |
9 | Brace 10 to 120 degrees |
10 | Unrestricted braceTake brace off to sleep |
11 | Unrestricted brace |
12 | End of week – brace removedFollow up MRI and Doctor review |
16-17 | Start straight-line running |
20+ | Re-commence training (dependent on initial type of ACL injury and rehabilitation progress) |
9-12 months | Follow up MRI and Doctor reviewReturn to sport testing |