acl reconstruction recovery
ACL Reconstruction Recovery
If you have scheduled a procedure to repair a torn ACL, you’re probably wondering, “How long will I be out of my normal routine?” Although this is an important question, there is much more to ACL surgery recovery than just getting back on your feet. Even after you’re able to walk without crutches or other assistive devices, your body is still healing, and the recovery process continues. For most people, it takes 2-9 months to fully recover from ACL surgery.1 A 2016 study of 80 amateur athletes found that on average, athletes returned to their sport after eight months.
Your doctor can provide specific recommendations based on your unique situation, but in general, the following tips may help you recover as quickly and safely as possible from ACL surgery.
Recovery from ACL Surgery
After anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery, move your ankles up and down an average of 10 times every 10 minutes. Continue this exercise for two to three days to help blood circulation and to prevent blood clots from forming in your legs. If you develop acute pain in the back of your calf, tell your doctor. This could be an early sign of clots.
Elevate leg
Keep your operated leg elevated at a minimum of a 45-degree angle. Prop your leg on cushions or pillows so your knee is at least 12 inches above your heart for the first three to five days after surgery. Keep your leg elevated if your knee swells or throbs when you are up and about on crutches. Don't put pillows behind your knee because this limits motion of the knee. Place pillows under your heel and calf.
Take pain medication
Expected pain and discomfort for the first few days. Take pain medications as your doctor advises. These could be over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or stronger narcotic drugs.
Bend knee
Slowly begin bending your knee. Straighten your leg and bend your knee. If necessary, place your hands behind your knee for assistance bending your knee. The goal is to achieve a range of motion of 0 to 90 degrees by the time you return for your first post-operative visit a week after surgery.
Monitor for fever
A low-grade fever – up to 101 degrees Fahrenheit or 38.3 Celsius – is common for four or five days after surgery. If your temperature is higher or lasts longer, tell your doctor. Your temperature should go down with acetaminophen.
Remove bandage
The dressing on your knee is usually removed the day after surgery. There may be some minor fluid drainage for two days. Sterile dressings or bandages may be used during this time. After surgery, keep the wound clean and dry. Take sponge baths until the sutures are removed.
Rehabilitation
Your rehabilitation program to restore range of motion to your knee begins the moment you wake up in the recovery room. During the first week after surgery, most patients are encouraged to lift their legs without assistance while lying on their backs. These are called straight leg raises. By the end of the second or third week, patients usually walk without crutches.
Sessions with a physical therapist usually begin seven to 14 days after surgery. During physical therapy, weight bearing is allowed if you did not have a meniscus repair.
A range of motion of 0 to 140 degrees is a good goal for the first two months.
Don't work your quadriceps early on because this can stretch the ACL graft. Stationary bike riding or lightweight leg presses are recommended during the first three months after surgery. These exercises strengthen the quadriceps while using the hamstrings to protect the ACL graft.
Don't swim or run for five months. You can swim with your arms, without paddling your feet, at about two to three months after surgery.
About Iranian Surgery
Iranian surgery is an online medical tourism platform where you can find the best orthopedic surgeons in Iran. The price of ACL Surgery in Iran can vary according to each individual’s case and will be determined by an in-person assessment with the doctor.
For more information about the cost of ACL Surgery in Iran and to schedule an appointment in advance, you can contact Iranian Surgery consultants via WhatsApp number 0098 901 929 0946. This service is completely free.
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