The goal for all forms of ACL rehabilitation after surgery is returning the patient to a normal and fully complete level of function in as short a time as possible without compromising the knee surgery. Therapy is broken down into phases of activity. Here is a standard four-phase protocol:
Expected Recovery Time After ACL Surgery
Phase I – First two weeks post surgery
· Control of knee inflammation
· Range of motion is full extension and 90 degrees knee flexion
· Achievement of patient quadriceps control
· Patient rehabilitation education
· Crutches for comfort are used 7 to 10 days post surgery
· Patellar Mobilization is begun to prevent any patellar tendon shortening, contraction, and patient’s knee motion loss, all of which would lengthen expected recovery time after ACL surgery.
Phase II – two to six weeks after surgery
· Strengthening by using light weights and sports cords
· Full range of motion accomplished
· Continued protection of graft from stresses
· Improvement of patient’s endurance and proprioception by use of treadmill, step machine, and elliptical trainer will shorten expected recovery time after ACL surgery.
Phase III – six weeks to three to four months after surgery
· Improve patient’s knee confidence
· Progression in patient’s strength, power, and proprioception; preparing for return to all activities
· Jogging is typically allowed at three months
· Straight ahead running exercise
Phase IV – four to six months after surgery
· Possible return to full activities depending on type of graft
· Full pain free range of motion should be present now
· Sufficient strength and proprioception should be present now
· Patient is instructed to initiate more advanced lifting exercises
· Phase is customized to fit the patient’s activity level
Phase V – Completes Rehab – usually at six months
· No soft tissue or range of motion complaints
· Physician must clear the patient to resume full activities
· Education of patient about possible limitations in future
· Maintenance of strength, endurance, and proprioception
Dr. Howard Marans is a highly respected authority for surgical reconstruction of shoulders, ankles, wrists, hands, elbows, and knees for those in law enforcement and for those in the sports profession. His mission has always been to provide every patient with a pain free life and a cure for incapacitating issues.
Will I need a brace?
Bracing after ACL surgery is really dependent on patient and surgeon preference. However, no long-term benefits have been found for knee laxity, range of motion, or function after ACL surgery. If you feel more comfortable in a brace, then one will be ordered for you by Dr. Marans.
When will I have follow up with Dr. Marans?
Your expected recovery time after ACL surgery includes follow up visits. You will be seen at:
- first week,
- two weeks,
- six weeks,
- three months and
- six to eight months.
During follow up exams, Dr. Marans will evaluate:
- The presence of continued pain and swelling
- Laxity of graft
- Strength of leg
- Range of motion of knee
- Knee function in daily living
Trying to move through pain can only make both the pain itself and the cause for the symptom worse. If you are suffering any type of joint limitation, swelling, or pain, you should contact Dr. Howard Marans for an immediate evaluation.
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