“How is the recovery for ACL tear surgery?”
I am a 17 year old male. I tore my ACL last night playing with friends. How is the recovery for ACL tear surgery?
7 Answers
After ACL surgery, there is a period of crutches. Usually 6 weeks. Then physical therapy for 3-4 months. Return to sport is usually 6-9 months.
A fully torn ACL needs to be surgically reconstructed. Average return to play is 9-12 months, and the rehab is pretty challenging, but worth it. Don't wait too long because it will cause other injuries to your knee that could affect it permanently.
Out for the season with regard to sports. 4-6 months recovery which includes your post-operative rehabilitation / therapy.
The ACL is a major knee ligament which is commonly torn in athletic activities. In most active young individuals surgery to reconstruct the ACL is commonly performed. This is a major knee surgery. The rehabilitation after surgery is also just as important. Most surgeons have a specific protocol that they follow for ACL Rehabilitation after surgery. It commonly starts within the first few days of surgery and takes 6 to 9 months to fully recover and return to sports. Your orthopedic surgeon will work closely with a physical therapist and athletic trainer to maximize your recovery. The good news is that treatment of ACL tears today is very successful. Good luck.
The surgical solution for an ACL tear is usually an ACL reconstruction. Almost all patients go home on the same day in a brace and with crutches. The brace and crutches are discontinued between 4-6 weeks based on recovery. Pain meds are usually discontinued by day 5. PT starts after 3-5 days and continues for at least 6 months. You can expect to be jogging by month 4, running by month 5, and starting a sports progression program by month 6.
Danyal H. Nawabi, MD
Danyal H. Nawabi, MD
Hello,
Coming from someone who just had ACL surgery with Southeast Orthopedic Specialists, the recovery is not bad if you keep a strict physical therapy regimen and follow the post-op protocols. You are in a locked brace for the first two weeks post surgery and then (pending your physical therapist’s approval) you are able to be more mobile. Please consult your physician before making your decision about your treatment options.
Audrey Amerson
Coming from someone who just had ACL surgery with Southeast Orthopedic Specialists, the recovery is not bad if you keep a strict physical therapy regimen and follow the post-op protocols. You are in a locked brace for the first two weeks post surgery and then (pending your physical therapist’s approval) you are able to be more mobile. Please consult your physician before making your decision about your treatment options.
Audrey Amerson
Outpatient surgery. 4-5 months to heal ACL reconstruction surgery. Return to sports is usually 8-12 months. Physical therapy starts within 1 week of surgery and progresses over several months.
Mark Burt, M.D.
Mark Burt, M.D.
