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What Not to Do After ACL Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide

The journey to recovery after an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) surgery is a complex one, and knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. This article provides a comprehensive guide for the recovery process, focusing on the common mistakes to avoid.

Understanding ACL & MCL Tears

Before delving into the recovery process, it’s crucial to understand the nature of ACL and Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) tears, which are among the most common knee injuries, especially among active individuals or those playing sports.

The ACL diagonally bisects the knee, offering rotational stability and controlling backward and forward motions. Conversely, the MCL connects the femur (thighbone) to the tibia (shin bone), controlling the sideways movement of the knee. Together with the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) and the Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL), the ACL and MCL provide vital stability to the knee joint.

Recovery Timeline for ACL and MCL Tears

Recovery from ACL and MCL tears can be a long journey, often characterized by physical therapy and, in some cases, surgical procedures. The torn MCL recovery time can differ significantly from that of a torn ACL. While most MCL tears can be managed with physical therapy, a torn ACL often requires surgery for effective recovery.

ACL Surgery and Recovery Time

The recovery time from an ACL surgery is dependent on various factors such as the success of the surgery, the adherence to post-surgical care instructions, and the individual’s overall health status. Generally, a full recovery can take anywhere from six months to two years.

The Importance of Post-Surgery Rehabilitation

A good rehabilitation program following ACL surgery is crucial to hasten recovery. Patients are advised to strictly adhere to the instructions from their doctors and physical therapists. The path to recovery can be challenging, but with patience and determination, it’s a battle that can be won.

What Not to Do After ACL Surgery: Key Points

Do Not Bend Your Knee Immediately After Surgery

For the first few weeks, it is essential to keep the knee joint completely straight after surgery. This gives the joint ample time to heal properly without straining the newly repaired ligament. Moving the joint too early after surgery can result in extreme pain during the healing process.

Avoid Weight Bearing on the Operated Knee

Patients should refrain from putting weight on the operated knee immediately after the surgery. The use of crutches or a wheelchair is often recommended until the orthopedic surgeon gives the green light for light pressure on the knee.

Do Not Neglect Your Knee Brace

Knee braces, although uncomfortable, play a crucial role in protecting and stabilizing the knee while speeding up recovery. Patients are advised to wear it consistently.

Do Not Engage in Physical Activities Until Cleared

Patients should avoid physical activities such as walking, playing sports, swimming, cycling, and knee bending until they receive clearance from their doctors. Overexertion can lead to complications and prolong the recovery period.

Do Not Skip Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process. It might be challenging and sometimes painful, but it’s crucial for strengthening the knee and enhancing mobility. Follow your doctor’s recommendations during acl rehabilitation to make sure you regain your full range of motion without knee pain.

Do Not Miss Scheduled Follow-ups

Regular follow-ups with your knee surgeon are necessary for monitoring your recovery progress. The sooner you get cleared, the sooner you can return to your regular activities.

Walking After ACL Surgery

Patients are often encouraged to start walking immediately after the ACL surgery, with the help of crutches. The crutches should be used until the patient feels comfortable enough to walk without them. However, care should be taken not to overexert the knee.

Weight Bearing After Surgery

Full weight bearing should be introduced gradually during the recovery process. It’s important for patients to listen to their bodies and only bear as much weight as is comfortable.

The Role of Prehabilitation Exercises

Prehabilitation exercises, performed before surgery, can help to improve the outcomes of the surgery. These exercises mainly focus on strengthening the muscles around the knee joint to provide structural support to the ACL as it recovers.

Importance of Post-Surgery Restrictions

Patients must adhere to certain restrictions following ACL surgery. These include limited physical activity, taking prescribed medication, attending physiotherapy sessions, and regular follow-ups with the doctor.

When to Consult the Doctor

Patients should consult their doctors if they experience new or increased swelling in the knee, warmth, redness, pain at the surgical site, or recurrent instability in the knee joint.

In conclusion, recovering from ACL surgery requires patience, perseverance, and adherence to the advice of medical professionals. Avoiding the activities and actions mentioned in this article can significantly improve the recovery process. If you have more questions or need comprehensive orthopedic care, contact Victoria Orthopedic Center. Our team of experts is ready to assist you on your journey to recovery.

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Victoria Orthopedic Center

Dr. Followwill has been practicing orthopedic surgery for over 30 years and was the first in the Crossroads to be fellowship trained in Sports Medicine.

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