ACL Reconstruction

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For athletes and active individuals who enjoy maintaining an adventurous spirit, an ACL tear can be devastating. We are here to help you with your ACL rehab. Understanding the recovery process is the best way to prepare for a successful rehabilitation journey.

ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) reconstruction is a surgical procedure to repair a torn ACL, a key ligament that stabilizes the knee. While this surgery can significantly improve stability and function, recovery requires a commitment to rehabilitation and an understanding of what to expect.

At Active Life, we emphasize an Active Treatment approach during ACL rehab. Our goal is to help you regain strength, improve mobility, and return to your daily activities as efficiently and safely as possible.

What to Expect With ACL Rehab

Please note that recovery timelines and protocols may vary depending on the surgeon's specific approach and your individual circumstances, including any additional repairs (such as meniscus repair). Always follow your surgeon’s guidance for the most accurate expectations.

Phase 0: Before The Surgery

  • Engaging in physical therapy before surgery can help optimize your recovery.

  • Focus on maintaining strength and range of motion in the knee and surrounding muscles.
  • This proactive approach prepares your body for surgery and may lead to better outcomes.

  • Depending on your specific surgery, you may be required to be non-weight bearing if other structures, like the meniscus, were repaired.

  • Focus on managing pain and swelling.
  • Begin gentle range-of-motion exercises and light quadriceps activation exercises as tolerated.

  • Gradual increase in weight-bearing activity as permitted by your physician.

  • Focus on improving range of motion and initiating strengthening exercises, including isometric quadriceps and hamstring exercises.
  • Many individuals begin to notice improvements in mobility and decreased pain during this phase.

  • Continued emphasis on strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving functional movements.

  • Progression to more dynamic activities as tolerated.
  • Many individuals can expect significant advancements in their recovery during this phase.

  • Focus on returning to normal activities, including functional training and higher-level exercises.

  • Continued strengthening to enhance stability and mobility.
  • While some individuals may start to return to light sports activities during this phase, it is crucial to follow your physician's guidelines.

  • This phase focuses on sport-specific training and ensuring the knee is prepared for the demands of your activity.
  • Starting a return-to-running program around 12 weeks can help transition you back to running safely.

Return to Sport Considerations

A return to sport may take up to a year or more, depending on your individual progress and any additional repairs performed.

Engaging in rigorous return-to-sport testing is essential to minimize the risk of re-injury and ensure that your knee can handle the physical demands of your chosen sport.

Red Flags In Recovery

During your recovery, it's important to be aware of potential complications. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately:

Signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

A sudden increase in pain or a significant decrease in the ability to move your knee could signal Swelling, warmth, or tenderness in the calf or thigh. This can be a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention..

Signs of Infection

Increased redness, swelling, or drainage at the surgical site, fever, or chills. These may indicate an infection that needs to be treated.

For any questions regarding these symptoms, please consult your physician.

Medication

Take any medications prescribed by your physician as directed. This includes pain management medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, and antibiotics if prescribed. Adhering to your medication regimen can help ensure a smoother recovery.

physical therapy medication
Active Life Physical Therapy outdoor shot

How To Choose Active Life For Your Recovery

You have the freedom to choose where you want to receive your physical therapy.

If you would like to come to Active Life, please ask your doctor to send a referral to us. Alternatively, you can request a script from your physician to bring to your appointment or send to us directly.

If you are preparing for or recovering from a total ACL Reconstruction, our expert team is here to guide you through each phase of rehabilitation.

Contact us today to schedule your initial evaluation and take the first step toward a pain-free, active lifestyle!

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