Repairing a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) may only require a short time in the hospital or health care facility. In fact, most ACL surgery patients return home the same day of the procedure.
The ACL recovery timeline is a longer process. Listening to the doctor’s after-care procedures and expectations is vital for an optimal outcome. Depending on medical history, each person may have a different ACL recovery timeline.
First Two Weeks
During the first two weeks of the ACL recovery timeline, rest is the main priority to help in the healing process.
- Use crutches to help keep the pressure and full weight off from the newly repaired area.
- Keep leg elevated with the use of a pillow.
- Follow the doctor’s recommendations for exercises to help reduce the chances of blood clots or other negative issues.
- Use either over the counter or prescribed medication to help reduce pain and swelling.
The first two weeks are critical to the healing process. Keeping the entire incision area clean and dry will aid in fighting off infections or other serious health issues. Knowing when to call a health care professional after surgery is a must.
- Bleeding from the incisions will not cease and the bandages cannot contain the flow.
- A red streak or line appears around the incision
- The incision area is producing a discharge.
- The inflammation and swelling proceed down the leg into the calf area.
- The patient has a high fever.
- The pain does not subside with the prescribed medication.
If anything looks out of the ordinary, asking a health care professional will give a patient peace of mind and prevent any harmful consequences. Do not be afraid to ask questions concerning aftercare procedures for ACL reconstruction surgery.
Two to Six Weeks
After the initial resting period in the ACL recovery timeline, the next step is to slowly begin strengthening the area to restore full range of movement.
- Crutches should be no longer in use unless directed by the health care professional.
- Beginning to put full weight on the knee
- Slowly working toward full extension of the knee
- A knee brace may be prescribed to help restrict movement
- If comfortable, driving may be allowed.
- Physical therapy begins
Six Weeks to Six Months
After six weeks in the ACL recovery timeline, the patient will move toward returning to normal activities at a slow progression. By continuing to exercise and develop strength in the knee area, a full range of movement may be achieved.
- The area should be pain-free prior to returning to sports or an exercise routine.
- The orthopedic surgery will need to clear the patient prior to engaging in strenuous activities. Beginning too soon will damage the repair area.
- A brace may be suggested to help keep the knee safe.
ACL Surgery Recovery Timeline and Expectations
For premium results during the ACL surgery recovery timeline, listening to a top rated orthopedic specialist is critical. From the initial consultation through the entire recovery process, Dr. Howard Marans will guide each patient through the steps of the ACL recovery timeline to achieve each level of expectations in the healing process. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.