How Long is the Recovery Time for ACL Surgery

Tears to the knee’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are among the most common sports injuries, especially among football players, basketball players, and other sports that involve rapid turns and stops. In many cases, surgery is required to treat the torn ligament. Although patients can return to work relatively quickly after ACL surgery, it can take much longer for the knee to fully heal.  

About ACL Tears

The knee has a relatively narrow range of motion, capable of moving only in one direction. It is the largest joint in the body, and one of the most complex joints. The ACL is one of four ligaments responsible for holding the knee in place. The ACL usually tears as a result of sudden twisting or force to the knee, as can happen during sports. Older adults are also prone to ACL tears.

ACL tears are classified based on their severity:

• Grade I – The ligament stretches or sustains a very minor tear. Symptoms are usually relatively mild and confined to pain. Several weeks of rest and care can give this type of tear time to heal.
• Grade II – The ligament tears significantly but is still intact. Symptoms are more pronounced and may include both pain and instability. Athletes often require surgery for this type of tear, but non-surgical treatment may be preferred for older, less active individuals.
• Grade III – The ligament is completely severed. Pain and instability of the knee may be severe. This type of tear almost always requires surgery, especially among athletes.

ACL Surgery Basics

ACL surgery is usually performed arthroscopically, which means that the doctor accesses the joint by making small incisions on the knee. Through these incisions the doctor inserts a camera and the tools used to operate.

Arthrocopic knee surgery is typically performed in an outpatient setting, so patients can return home the same day. Usually, only local anesthesia and sedation are required.

Recovery From ACL Surgery 

For the first few days after ACL surgery, activity is quite restricted. Patients are instructed to get up for a few minutes every day, but will not be up to much more than that. Pain is often managed with prescription medication for the first few days. Each successive day after surgery, pain is more manageable and the patient feels up to doing more.

Many patients feel up to returning to work at a desk job within a week of surgery. Other normal activities can also be resumed. It is around this time that physical therapy usually begins.  

It takes longer for the knee to make a full recovery. For athletes, it usually takes several months until the knee is strong enough to perform at the required level (if such a complete recovery is possible). This means that for most athletes, a torn ACL means an end to the season.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your knee injury. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.