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:

  1. ACL Reconstruction Surgery

  2. Non-operative Rehabilitation

  3. 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.

Book your knee assessment now
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