Peak Sports Physio Hakuba: Your Local Experts in ACL Injury Assessment, Treatment & Travel Support
Suffered a knee injury on the slopes? This guide covers how Peak Sports Physio Hakuba diagnoses ACL injuries, manages pain and swelling, and supports your recovery and journey home.
ACL Injuries in Skiing: What You Need to Know
Skiing is one of the most common sports associated with ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injuries, and the statistics speak for themselves:
15–20% of all skiing injuries involve the ACL
65% of ACL injuries are complete ruptures
Women are 1.6× more likely to experience an ACL injury than men
Your risk increases significantly if you’ve had a previous ACL injury or have a family history of ligament injuries
With Hakuba’s high incidence of ski-related knee injuries, Peak Sports Physio Hakuba has become a trusted leader in ACL injury assessment, acute management, and rehabilitation planning.
Expert ACL Injury Assessment in Hakuba
Our physiotherapists are internationally trained (Australia & UK) and highly experienced in identifying and managing acute knee injuries, including:
ACL, MCL, LCL and PCL injuries
Meniscus tears
Bone bruising and associated trauma
Using recognised orthopaedic testing, your physio will assess the integrity of your knee and determine the likelihood of ligament damage. When required, we can arrange rapid MRI referrals through our partner radiology clinics in nearby Nagano or other Japanese centres.
Immediate ACL Injury Care: Bracing, Crutches & Pain Management
Once an ACL injury is confirmed or strongly suspected, our priority is:
Stabilising your knee with premium knee braces suitable for snow conditions
Providing crutches designed for winter terrain
Supporting mobility and pain reduction so you can safely continue your holiday or prepare for travel home
Managing Swelling & Reducing DVT Risk Before Flying
Because most of our clients must fly home after injury, we take special precautions to reduce the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)—a known complication after leg injuries and long-haul travel.
Your therapist will guide you through essential swelling-management strategies, including:
Compression garments
Leg elevation and rest protocols
Cryotherapy and intermittent compression using our advanced GameReady system
We also collaborate with medical providers across Hakuba and Tokyo, and can help arrange medical consultations for anti-coagulant medication when clinically appropriate.
Starting Your ACL Recovery Early
Modern ACL injury management offers three primary recovery pathways:
ACL Reconstruction Surgery
Non-operative Rehabilitation
The Cross Bracing Protocol – an innovative option that promotes natural ACL healing without surgery
Your rehabilitation can begin immediately, regardless of which pathway you ultimately pursue. Early-stage rehab is crucial for long-term success, reducing pain and swelling while restoring movement and muscle activation.
Want to learn more about each recovery pathway?
Click HERE to explore your options.
Travel Support & Insurance Assistance
When it’s time to return home, your Peak Sports Physio Hakuba therapist will assist with travel insurance communication to help arrange:
Direct transfers to the airport (so you’re not carrying luggage through public transport)
Business-class seat upgrades where eligible, to allow leg elevation and reduce the risk of complications
Documentation detailing your injury, treatment, and required travel accommodations
Please note that coverage varies significantly between insurance providers and policies.
Why Choose Peak Sports Physio Hakuba for ACL Injuries?
Internationally trained physiotherapists
Same-day assessment for ski injuries
Access to MRI referrals and medical networks across Japan
Advanced bracing, cryotherapy and DVT-prevention strategies
Expertise in ACL rehabilitation pathways, including the Cross Bracing Protocol
Guidance with travel arrangements and insurance requirements
Whether you're managing a mild sprain or a complete rupture, our team is here to help you recover safely, quickly, and confidently.