When Can I Return To Work After ACL Surgery

ACL Surgery

Tears of the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, are a common type of knee injury, especially among athletes. ACL surgery can normally be performed using arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure. The amount of time away from work depends on the nature of the patient’s job, as well as how quickly they heal.

ACL Surgery Basics

ACL surgery is performed arthroscopically. This means that small incisions are created in the knee, about the size of a pin. Through one incision, a camera is inserted, which allows the doctor to see the inside of the knee without opening it up. Through the other incisions, small tools are inserted. The tear is repaired, usually using a graft from another ligament or tendon.

ACL surgery can be done on an outpatient basis, meaning that patients are treated in an ambulatory surgery center. Normally, only local anesthesia and sedation are required. After several hours of observation, patients can return home that day.

Returning to Work and Activities

For the first few days, patients will not be up to much. Although they should walk around for a few minutes a day, overexertion should be avoided. Each successive day after surgery, the condition improves and the patient is able to be more active.

Doctors make their recommendations about returning to work on a case-by-case basis, but there are some general guidelines on what to expect. Here’s what to expect in terms of returning to work and activities:

• Desk jobs – Most patients can return to their desk job in as little as a week.
• Standing jobs – If the job involves standing for most of the day, patients can expect to return within four to six weeks.
• Physically strenuous jobs – For jobs that involve a lot of lifting or climbing, time away from work may be up to two to four months. Patients may return to work with limited duties if possible.
• Jogging – At four months out, most patients can start jogging again.
• Running – At five months out, patients can usually return to cycling and running.
• Full recovery – At six to eight months out, the majority of patients have made a full recovery and can return to all physically strenuous activities, although the use of a brace may still be recommended.

Minimizing Downtime

Patients can minimize their downtime by following their physicians’ recommendations regarding activities before and after surgery. These recommendations are designed to minimize the risk of side effects. Important steps include:

• Refraining from smoking several weeks before and after surgery
• Eating a healthy diet with plenty of protein and nutrients
• Monitoring for fever and other signs of infection
• Refraining from over-exertion
• Being active as recommended
• Participating in physical therapy and following the therapist’s recommendations for home exercises

If you have an ACL tear or experience knee pain, ACL surgery may be right for you. Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your knee injury. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.