Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) repair is a common surgical procedure for individuals who have suffered an ACL tear, often during sports or physical activities. Proper rehabilitation is essential for a successful recovery and return to activity. This blog will guide you through the rehabilitation process after ACL repair.
Understanding ACL Repair: The ACL is a key ligament in the knee that helps stabilise the joint. An ACL tear often requires surgical repair to restore stability and function. The surgery typically involves reconstructing the ligament using a graft from your own tissue or a donor.
Post-Surgery Care:
Hospital Stay: You may stay in the hospital for a day or two for monitoring and initial recovery.
Pain Management: Pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs will be prescribed to manage postoperative pain.
Wound Care: Instructions on caring for the surgical wound to prevent infection.
Knee Brace: You may need to wear a knee brace to protect the repair and support the knee during the initial healing phase.
Rehabilitation Goals: Rehabilitation after ACL repair focuses on reducing pain and swelling, restoring range of motion, and strengthening the knee.
Acute Phase:
Rest and Ice: Use ice packs to reduce swelling and pain.
Compression and Elevation: Apply a compression bandage and keep the knee elevated to minimise swelling.
Gentle Exercises: Begin with gentle range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness, such as heel slides and quad sets.
Subacute Phase:
Strengthening Exercises: Introduce exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, including quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles.
Balance and Proprioception: Exercises such as single-leg stands and balance boards to improve knee stability and proprioception.
Advanced Rehabilitation:
Functional Training: Progress to more functional activities.
Sport-Specific Drills: If you’re an athlete, incorporate sport-specific drills to ensure you’re ready to return to your activity.
Preventing Future Injuries:
Proper Warm-Up: Always warm up before engaging in physical activity.
Strength and Flexibility Training: Regularly perform exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility.
Safe Techniques: Use proper techniques during exercise and sports to reduce the risk of injury.
Rehabilitation after ACL repair is crucial for a successful recovery and return to activity. By following a structured rehab program that includes gentle exercises, strengthening routines, and functional training, you can ensure a smooth recovery and prevent future injuries. If you’ve undergone ACL repair, working closely with a physiotherapist will help you achieve the best possible outcomes and return to your normal activities safely and effectively.
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