A Guide to ACL Reconstruction Recovery

Overview

If you tear the anterior cruciate ligament in your knee while playing sports, then your doctor may recommend anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery. Here we’ve discussed the anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction recovery period and all the things you need to do during that time after surgery.

What is an ACL injury and how will this affect your daily activities?

The ACL is a tough band of tissue that connects the thigh and shin bones at the knee joint.

It runs diagonally through the inside of the knee and provides stability to the joint. It also aids in the control of the lower leg's back-and-forth movement.

And to fix such injuries, ACL reconstruction surgery is necessary.

Also, Read - ACL Reconstruction For Ligament Tear: When Do You Need It?

Do’s and Don'ts after ACL reconstruction surgery:

• Treatment aims to alleviate pain and swelling while also preparing you for more advanced stages of recovery. For a few days, you'll feel pain and discomfort. So you could take an over-the-counter pain reliever like Advil (ibuprofen) or a prescription narcotic. Take any of these medications only as directed by your doctor.
• A low-grade fever (98.7 to 100.4°F) can last 4 to 5 days and is usually relieved by acetaminophen. However, if your fever continues or worsens, consult your doctor.
• Move your ankles on a regular basis to improve circulation and prevent leg clots. If you have calf pain, see your doctor right away because it could be caused by a blood clot.
• Applying heat to the injured area is not advised.
• Progressive physical therapy helps to strengthen the muscles around your knee and improve flexibility after ACL surgery. A physical therapist will show you how to perform exercises that you will do either under supervision or at home.

Following the rehabilitation plan is important for proper healing and the best possible results.

• Avoid putting too much strain on your knee too soon.
• Don't ice your knee too much. Surprisingly, excessive icing can harm your nerves. Icing should be limited to 20 minutes three to four times per day.
• Avoid sleeping with your knee bent. Sleeping with a bent knee can cause scar tissue to form over time, preventing you from fully extending your knee.

Also, Read - Hip Resurfacing Vs Hip Replacement: Which One Is Best For Your Knee?

Recovery time after ACL reconstruction:

Depending on the level of competition and the type of activity, it usually takes six to nine months for a patient to return to sports after an ACL reconstruction.

On the day of surgery, patients can walk with crutches and a leg brace. The patient begins a rehabilitation program soon after surgery to restore knee strength, stability, and range of motion.

In comparison to open surgery, which was previously used for ACL reconstruction, arthroscopic surgical techniques have made recovery times shorter and easier. However, in order to achieve a successful outcome, the patient must undergo rehabilitation under the supervision of a qualified physical therapist, as well as attend follow-up appointments.

Also, Read - Knee Arthroscopy or Chronic Pain - Cost, Surgery, Procedure

How can we help with the treatment?

If you are in search of ACL reconstruction in India, we will serve as your guide throughout your medical treatment and will be physically present with you even before your treatment begins. The following will be provided to you:

• Opinions of expert physicians and surgeons
• Transparent communication
• Coordinated care
• Prior appointment with specialists
• Assistance with hospital formalities
• 24*7 availability
• Arrangements for travel
• Assistance for accommodation and healthy recovery
• Assistance in emergencies

Our team is dedicated to offering the highest quality health trip and services to our patients. We have a team of highly qualified and devoted health professionals that will be by your side from the beginning of your journey.