Patients and physicians have long looked to physical therapists to help determine an athlete’s readiness to return to sport (RTS) following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). This is a complex decision that must take into account biological healing, joint stability, functional performance, and psychological readiness. Considering that the vast majority of medical professionals use time as the sole determinant of an athlete’s readiness, and few are using performance-based criteria, it appears as though our profession is failing to capture the necessary information to make this weighty recommendation. The time is now to take a hard look at current practice patterns with RTS testing and push the envelope forward. The purpose of this clinical commentary is challenge our failing status quo by disseminating a robust model for RTS testing that incorporates temporal and criterion-based factors, as well as intrinsic and extrinsic data. Level of Evidence 5

Runners and clinicians have long sought to enhance distance running performance and reduce the occurrence of running-related injuries. Footwear selection often comes to the forefront in such pursuits, yet remains a common source of controversy in the literature and practice. In particular, the utilization of minimalist footwear has fluctuated in popularity over the last several decades, with some proponents suggesting that it can promote improvements in running economy and reduce injury rates. However, a closer look at the literature shows anything but straightforward and consistent recommendations. The purpose of this article is to outline the effects of minimalist footwear on running performance and injury, with a focus on its associated impact on running mechanics. The authors also aim to identify who may be the ideal client to transition to minimalist running and how to minimize the risk of injury during the transition.