An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is a major injury that usually occurs during sports that involve sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction.
This type of injury is common in sports like soccer and basketball. The ACL is a vital ligament in the knee that helps stabilize it, so if it tears, immediate medical attention is needed. According to the Mayo Clinic, ACL tear surgery is usually recommended to athletes who want to continue with their sport.
This article will walk you through the timeline and process of recovering from ACL tear surgery.
Symptoms of an ACL Tear
An ACL tear is an injury to the ligament in the center of the knee. The following are the symptoms of an ACL tear:
- Sudden, Severe Pain: Intense pain occurs immediately at the time of injury.
- Swelling: Swelling develops within a few hours due to bleeding into the knee joint.
- Instability: The knee may feel unstable or give way, especially during activities that involve cutting or pivoting.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty fully straightening the knee and restricted movement.
- Popping Sensation: A popping sound or feeling at the time of injury, though this isn’t always present.
Understanding the Surgical Process for ACL Reconstruction
ACL tear surgery is also known as ACL reconstruction. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, an ACL repair restores stability to the knee and protects the articular cartilage from damage.
The surgery involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft, a tendon from another part of your body. This surgery is usually performed arthroscopically, meaning it uses small incisions and a camera to guide the orthopedic surgeon.
The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours. After the surgery, you’ll spend some time in the recovery room before going home.
Immediate Post-Surgery Recovery: Days 1-7
The first week after ACL tear surgery is critical. During this time, you’ll focus on managing pain and swelling. Your knee will be bandaged, and you will have a brace to keep it stable. Ice packs and elevation can help reduce swelling.
You’ll likely start physical therapy almost immediately. The initial exercises will be very gentle, focusing on regaining motion in your knee and activating your quadriceps muscles. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s and physical therapist’s instructions closely during this phase.
Early Rehabilitation: Weeks 1-6
In the first six weeks, you’ll gradually start putting weight on your leg. Physical therapy will intensify, including exercises to improve your range of motion, strength, and balance. You might use crutches initially but should be able to walk without them by the end of this phase.
Your therapist will introduce new exercises as you progress. These might include stationary biking, leg presses, and gentle stretches. Consistency is key, so make sure to attend all your therapy sessions and do your home exercises as directed.
Mid-Stage Recovery: Weeks 6-12
By this point, you will be getting stronger and more mobile. Physical therapy will continue to ramp up, focusing on rebuilding your muscle strength and improving your knee’s stability. Exercises will become more dynamic, including plyometric drills and light jogging.
Listening to your body is crucial during this stage. While it’s normal to feel some discomfort, sharp pain could indicate that you’re overdoing it. Communicate openly with your physical therapist who can make adjustments to your exercises.
Return to Play: Months 3-6
Returning to your sport will depend on your progress and your doctor’s advice. Most athletes can start sport-specific training around the three-month mark. This phase will include more intense exercises and drills that mimic the movements of your sport.
It’s important to maintain a balance between pushing yourself and not rushing back too soon. Gradual reintroduction to sports helps prevent re-injury. Stay patient and trust the process.
Long-Term Rehabilitation and Preventing Re-injury
Even after you return to your sport, rehabilitation doesn’t stop. Long-term strength and conditioning exercises are essential to keep your knee strong and prevent future injuries. Incorporate exercises that focus on agility, balance, and flexibility into your routine.
Preventing re-injury also involves listening to your body and avoiding overtraining. Check in regularly with your physical therapist for guidance.
Recovering from an ACL tear surgery is a challenging but achievable goal. By learning the timeline of recovery and sticking to your rehabilitation program, you can return to your sport soon. Remember, patience and consistency are your best allies on this journey.
ACL Tear Surgery in Maryland
The orthopedic professionals at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division are experts at treating ACL tears. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons have advanced training in sports medicine and regularly treat athletes with knee ligament injuries.
We are committed to optimizing your outcomes from treatment. Physical therapy services are available in the same facility where our orthopedic doctors see patients. We have locations in Bethesda, Germantown, and Rockville.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Raffo, Dr. Gardiner, or Dr. Christoforetti, call our office today at (301) 515-0900. You can also schedule an appointment online.
