If you have ACL surgery, it is helpful to go in with an idea of what to expect. Each case is different, and your doctor can give you more detailed information that takes into account your unique case. Below, we will take a look at the expected ACL recovery timeline.
How ACL Surgery Works
Most ACL repairs can be performed arthroscopically. During this minimally invasive procedure, the doctor makes two or more small incisions along the knee. Through one incision, the doctor inserts a camera, or arthroscope, which provides an image of what is going on inside the knee. Through the other incisions, the physician inserts the necessary tools and repairs the ACL tear.
Expected ACL Recovery Timeline
Here’s what most patients experience in terms of an ACL recovery timeline:
- The day of surgery – If the surgery is performed arthroscopically, you should be able to return home the same day as the procedure. Because sedation is used, you will not be able to drive during that day. You will rest for most of the day, and may be instructed to elevate and ice your knee. It is important to walk around for at least a few minutes that day.
- The first few days – For the first few days after surgery, your activities will be limited, and you may require a prescription medication to control pain. However, you should be able to do a little more each day, and walking for a few minutes will remain important.
- After a week – After a week, you will feel up to most of your everyday activities, such as walking or driving. Many patients begin physical therapy at this point, if not sooner. Most people with desk jobs can return to work within a week.
- After 6 weeks – At this point, most patients are able to return to a wider range of activities that use the knee, and people with physically active jobs may be able to return to work.
- In several months – Within several months to a year, the majority of patients will make a complete recovery. After a complete recovery is made and the leg’s full strength is returned, the physician may give the go-ahead to resume very physically strenuous activities, such as athletic training at an elite level.
Ways to Minimize Recovery Time
You can take a number of steps to minimize your recovery time after surgery, including:
- Following your doctor’s instructions regarding how much or how little you should be moving
- Monitoring yourself for signs of infection and other complications, and calling your doctor if such signs arise
- Refraining from smoking
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting plenty of sleep
Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your knee health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.