ACL Physio Melbourne
Are you looking for an ACL Physio in Melbourne? Well, much like 1998’s Sliding Doors with Gwyneth Paltrow there are so many thoughts running through your mind, and options that can change your future.
Do you undergo ACL surgery, or not? What type of ACL surgery is best? Who should I see? (we have a list of great surgeons in Melbourne here), how much does it cost? Can I hit a music gig with my new knee, and many more questions will fill your mind. (we’ve got a FAQ down the bottom here if you scroll down)
Lucky enough, we’re not a standard clinic with its AI-generated speels about ACL injuries, “comprehensive this”, “system that”. We just generally want to help you, and we love rehabilitating patients through the process of ACL Rehabilitation because it’s literally our jam. Not like the Black & Gold fruit chutney mix, the kind Nonna makes when the garden blooms. You know when keeps handing you bags of countless fruit when you visit, and she jams it—the good stuff.
In 2024 and 2025 so far, we’ve seen at least 40 ACL tears come through the clinic and sporting clubs we’ve been involved with – so we know our stuff and we’re keen to help you.
Much love,
Want to talk or Whatsapp a Physio about your ACL Injury?
We’re trying to make it easier and smoother for you to understand how we can help. So you’re welcome to whatsapp message us on +61430436531 and we will get a Physio to respond to you or call you back and chat about how we can help you.
Otherwise email us here, and we can contact you back.
Choose your ACL Physiotherapist
Andy
(Tuesday and Thursday arvo’s)
Andy is a smooth operator, smart, a quick learner and someone who has huge amounts of experience with all types of knee surgeries, specifically ACL Injuries. He is so damn passionate about Physio and rehab it’s incredible. It’s going to be hard to choose out of this three!
Phill Danzi
(On Saturdays only)
There are good ACL Physio’s then there in Phill. He was born with an ACL book in his hand and has worked with many AFLW players especially from the mighty bulldogs. He loves treating and rehabilitating people either Conservatively or Surgically and can help guide you through making a decision
Catya
(Tuesday and Thursday arvo’s)
Catya is our new prodigy, smart, sophisticated and talented. She currently is the Carlton FC talent academy physio, and is so damn passionate about ACL Rehab and Physiotherapy that she’ll spend her weekends away thinking of how she can help you and your knee.
you should be looked after. You should be treated like an individual. You should come to a cool clinic not just a white sterile doctors office with no music.
It’s going to be a tough journey back from your ACL injury and rehabilitation. But here at Evolutio, we’ve got you, we’ll always be here to help look after you.
How to Book in for your ACL Injury
Read below to find out how to book in to see a ACL physio in Melbourne. We’ll help navigate you out of the depths of despair.
How to Book an Initial ACL Physio Session
Book an Online face to face 45-minute session with a ACL Physio at our incredible Physiotherapy clinic. Your experienced ACL Physiotherapist will talk to you, ask you questions, look at your knee, do some initial testing, quickly discuss the sun levels, palpate and feel around the knee, give hands-on initial treatment, if they believe it will help. They’ll also help guide you through the process of what to do, where to do it, how long it will take ect.
Availability and Prices
You can book here or using the button below. We have ACL Physio’s working at varying hours. We are popular so sometimes you will have to book in advance, but if you’re in severe pain, give us a call at (03) 9100 3798, and we will try to fit you in. Or whatsapp message +61430436531.
We also have some packages and easy ways that you we can take care of the whole thing for you. Talk to us to find out.
FAQs about ACL Injuries and Surgery
If I injured my ACL, do I need to have surgery?
Not necessarily! Whether you need surgery for an ACL injury depends on several factors, including the severity of the tear, your activity level, and your goals.
When ACL Surgery Might Be Needed:
Complete Tear & Instability: If your ACL is fully torn and your knee is giving way during daily activities or sports, surgery might be the best option.
High Activity Level: If you play pivoting sports like soccer, basketball, or CrossFit, an ACL reconstruction is often recommended to restore stability.
Multiple Ligament Injuries: If other knee structures (MCL, meniscus) are also damaged, surgery might be necessary.
When Non-Surgical ACL Rehab Can Work:
Partial Tear: If the ACL is partially torn and the knee remains stable, rehab and strengthening may be enough.
Low-Demand Lifestyle: If you don’t play high-impact sports, a structured physio program focusing on strength, neuromuscular control, and stability can help you return to daily activities without surgery.
Does Health Insurance in Australia cover ACL Surgery?
Yes, health cover in Australia can support ACL surgery, but it depends on whether you have public healthcare (Medicare) or private health insurance.
Public System (Medicare)
ACL surgery is covered under Medicare if you go through the public hospital system.
However, waiting times can be long—sometimes 6 to 12 months or more, depending on the hospital and urgency.
You'll usually have minimal out-of-pocket costs, but rehab and physio may not be fully covered.
Private Health Insurance
If you have private hospital cover (usually under policies that include joint reconstructions), your insurance can cover a significant portion of the surgery costs.
You’ll need to check:
Waiting periods (often 12 months for pre-existing conditions).
Out-of-pocket costs (surgeon, anesthetist, hospital fees, etc.).
Extras cover for physio and rehab, which are crucial for recovery.
The benefit? Shorter waiting times and more choice of surgeon & hospital compared to the public system.
How Much does ACL Surgery Cost?
The cost of ACL surgery in Australia varies depending on whether you go through the public or private healthcare system. ACL surgery in Australia can be accessed through the public or private health system, each with varying costs and wait times. The public system (Medicare) offers low to no out-of-pocket expenses but typically involves a 6–12 month or longer wait. Going private without insurance means paying around $13,000–$18,000+ for surgery, imaging, and 12 months of Physiotherapy rehabilitation. With private health insurance that includes joint reconstructions, most hospital and theatre costs are covered, though you may still face out-of-pocket fees for the surgeon, anaesthetist, and physiotherapy if not included in your extras cover.
Public System (Medicare)
Cost: Low to no out-of-pocket expenses if you go through a public hospital.
Waiting Time: 6–12 months or longer, depending on urgency and location.
Private System (Without Insurance)
If you pay out-of-pocket in a private hospital, expect costs for your ACL Surgery and Rehabilitation around:
Surgeon’s fees: $4,000 – $7,000
Anaesthetist: $1,000 – $2,000
Hospital fees: $3,000 – $6,000 (day surgery) or more if staying overnight
MRI & other imaging: $300 – $500
Physio rehab: $4,000 – $6,000 over 9–12 months
Total estimated cost for ACL Surgery without insurance: $13,000 – $18,000+
Private Health Insurance (With Cover)
If you have private hospital cover (with joint reconstructions included), your insurer will cover most of the hospital & theatre fees for your ACL Surgery as above.
You may still have out-of-pocket costs for:
Surgeon gap fees ($500 – $3,000, depending on the doctor).
Anaesthetist gap fees ($500 – $1,500).
Physio & rehab (if not included in extras cover).
Key Considerations
Choosing the Right Surgeon & Insurance Policy can reduce costs significantly.
Rehab & Physio is a major expense after surgery—some insurance covers this, but many don’t.
Other ACL Frequently Asked Questions
Can you travel Australia with an ACL injury?
Yes, you can travel around Australia with an ACL injury, but it depends on the severity of your injury and the type of activities you plan to do. If your ACL is partially torn or you’ve already begun rehab and built up strength around the knee, you’ll likely be able to manage day-to-day travel with the help of a knee brace or crutches. Sightseeing, road trips, and more relaxed travel are generally manageable as long as you avoid high-impact activities. Having access to physiotherapy or medical support along your route can also make a big difference in staying comfortable and safe while on the move.
However, there are some important considerations. Long flights or car rides can cause swelling or discomfort in the knee, and uneven terrain or sudden movements can increase the risk of further injury if your knee isn't stable. It’s best to avoid strenuous hikes, water sports, or anything that could put your knee at risk. If you're heading to remote areas, make sure you have a plan for medical support just in case. Also, be sure to inform your travel insurer of your ACL injury, as some policies won’t cover pre-existing conditions unless declared. With a bit of planning and care, travelling with an ACL injury can still be a safe and enjoyable experience.
How to sleep after ACL surgery
Sleeping after ACL surgery can be challenging, especially in the first couple of weeks when pain, swelling, and limited mobility are at their peak. The best position is usually on your back with your leg slightly elevated using pillows or a foam wedge under your calf and heel—this helps reduce swelling and keeps your leg in a supported, neutral position. If you're a side sleeper, lying on your non-operated side with a pillow between your knees can also work, as long as you keep your leg stable and avoid twisting. It's best to avoid sleeping on your stomach, as this can put unnecessary strain on both your knee and lower back.
To improve your sleep quality, consider taking pain medication about 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime to stay comfortable. Icing your knee for 15–20 minutes before sleep can also help manage inflammation. If your surgeon recommends it, wearing your brace while sleeping may help protect the joint from accidental movement during the night. Try to elevate your entire leg—not just the knee—to avoid placing pressure behind the knee and to help fluid drain more effectively. Keep essentials like water, medication, and crutches within reach so you’re not moving around too much during the night. Sleep tends to improve as healing progresses, so be patient and adjust your setup as needed.
How long is ACL Reconstruction surgery?
ACL reconstruction surgery typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional repairs, like to the meniscus or cartilage, are needed. The type of graft used—such as hamstring tendon, patellar tendon, or a donor graft—can also affect the length of the surgery. While the operation itself is relatively short, you’ll spend several hours at the hospital in total, including time for pre-op preparation and post-op recovery. Most patients go home the same day unless complications arise or further procedures are required.
Why Should I See an ACL Physiotherapist in Melbourne?
Seeing an ACLphysiotherapist in Melbourne is essential for several compelling reasons. Firstly, ACL injuries are complex and can vary in severity, so consulting with a specialised ACL physiotherapist ensures you receive a tailored treatment plan. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of knee anatomy and ACL-specific rehabilitation techniques, enabling them to assess your injury accurately and design a personalised program for your recovery.
Secondly, Melbourne boasts a rich sports culture, and many individuals are passionate about staying active. Whether you're an athlete or enjoy an active lifestyle, an ACL physiotherapist in Melbourne can help you regain mobility and strength after an ACL injury. They will guide you through exercises and rehabilitation protocols to get you back to your desired activity level safely and efficiently.
Lastly, ACL physiotherapists also play a vital role in injury prevention. They can educate you on techniques to minimise the risk of future ACL injuries, especially if you're involved in sports or activities that put stress on the knee joint. By seeking the expertise of an ACL Rehab program and ACL physio in Melbourne, you address your current injury and gain valuable knowledge and tools to protect your knee health in the long run, ensuring a more active and pain-free life.
