How to Recover from ACL Reconstruction

So, you injured your knee, had an MRI and found out you tore your ACL. Once the initial shock of the injury is over, it's time to formulate a game plan so you can return to your everyday activities. Use the steps below as a guide to return you to 100% 6 months after surgery. Typically, 6 months is the benchmark for a full recovery time to return to sports / activities. Keep in mind, every surgery is different, and the results can vary. These are the steps I followed in 2002 and 2005 when I rehabbed my injured knees. Though I had the same surgery, using the same surgeon and physical therapist, the results were different. The first surgery had a much quicker rehab time up front, but took longer overall to return to normal. The second surgery was exactly the opposite. Hopefully, these steps will help you on your road to recovery.

Schedule pre-operative rehab

If your insurance allows it, schedule time with a physical therapist prior to surgery. Once the initial swelling is down, it's important to regain range of motion and be able to straighten your leg. The stronger you go into surgery, the stronger you will come out, and the quicker you will recover. I went into both surgeries with very little inflammation and full range of motion, and I know that helped me after surgery.

Watch what you eat

You will not be as mobile as usual, and it's very easy to pack on some quick pounds. Adjust your diet so this won't happen. It is much easier to return to athletic shape if you are only worried about working on your knees. If you gain weight, you will have to rehab the knee and work harder to get the rest of your body back in shape.

Find out what you can do at home

There are some simple exercises you should be able to start right away at home. Typically, your first physical therapy appointment won't be for a few days after surgery. Don't waste this time. Ask your surgeon or physical therapist what you can do at home. You should at least be able to do some quad sets and attempt some straight leg raises. If you do straight leg raises, concentrate more on form than on quantity. The exercise only benefits you if you keep your leg straight.

Listen to your physical therapist