How Long Does It Take to Walk After ACL Injury?

Overview

An ACL tear is one of the most common fears for sports persons. However, this can be treated by ACL reconstruction or ACL repair. But you might have a question about how long it takes to walk after ACL surgery. If that is the answer you’re seeking, then you’re on the right page. Here we’ve discussed the same with our renowned orthopedic surgeon.

What is ACL?

One of four ligaments that connect the kneecap to the thigh and shin bones is the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and PCL (posterior cruciate ligament) are located on the inside of the knee joint.

The ligaments allow for back-and-forth movement, twisting, and stability. ACL tears are extremely painful and severely limit mobility.

Timeline for walking after ACL surgery:

Following ACL surgery, you will most likely experience swelling and soreness in your knee, limiting the amount of pressure you can apply to the injured leg. As a result, the majority of patients will require crutches to walk after ACL surgery in the beginning.

Most surgeons will advise you to begin walking on the first day following ACL surgery and to carry as much weight as you are comfortable with.

Use the crutches for as long as you believe you need them, which can range from a few days to a few weeks.

Importantly, try to walk normally while carrying as much weight as you feel comfortable with.

If there are no complications, ACL surgery can be performed as an outpatient procedure. Patients can walk 1-2 days after surgery, which is surprising. However, there is a catch. Patients can only walk for a few minutes per day. Standing and walking for a few minutes every day for the first two weeks helps to reduce swelling and regain muscle strength and flexibility.

Of course, moving requires the use of crutches. Walking is part of your orthopedic rehabilitation program.

Timeline for walking without any assistance:

The full recovery timeline is determined by several factors, including the severity of the injury, age, and weight, as well as the level of aftercare.

Patients can walk unassisted for short periods of time after 2-4 weeks. Expect brisk walking, light jogging, and even plyometric exercise after 10-12 weeks. With physical therapy, full recovery from ACL reconstruction takes 6-12 months.

How can you prevent further injury after ACL surgery?

Athletes who have gone through the arduous process of ACL reconstruction frequently should know how to avoid reinjury.

Warming up and stretching properly before exercising or participating in sports is one of the most important injury prevention strategies. Even after you've recovered, you should keep doing physical therapy exercises to keep your knee joint strong and stable. Squats, lunges, and balancing exercises are examples of these exercises.

Always listen to your body and take a step back if you are in pain. If the pain persists, consult a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.

How can we help with the treatment?

If you are in search of treatment for ACL injury in India, we will serve as your guide throughout your medical treatment and will be physically present with you even before it 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 care 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 medical travel to India.