263 | Quad Size Still Smaller? The Science Behind Persistent Quad Atrophy after ACLR

The ACL Athlete Podcast · Feb 12, 2026 · 35m · transcript

In this episode, we tackle one of the most frustrating and under-discussed parts of ACL rehab: your quad is still smaller months later, and you’re wondering if something is wrong. I break down what the research actually shows about quadriceps muscle mass before surgery, immediately after, and even years down the road. We walk through why atrophy starts earlier than most people realize, why surgery creates a second drop, and why full visual symmetry is not guaranteed within 9–12 months. You’ll also hear real-world examples from elite athletes, and why even world-class pros with top-tier…