How to Recover an ACL Reconstruction Autograph

When it comes to repairing a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), doctors have two different methods repair the ligament: the allograft and autograft methods. With the allograft, doctors harvest tissue from a cadaver. With the autograft method, doctors harvest the tissue from the patient. A doctor then grafts it in place of the injured ligament. The autrograft method is the most common method. When recovering from an ACL autograft procedure, follow your doctor's orders to rehabilitate the knee and surrounding muscles through physical therapy. Depending on the patient, physical therapy can last between two and 12 weeks after the surgery.

Things You'll Need

• Crutches
• Ice packs
• Exercise equipment

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Instructions

• 1

  During the first two weeks after having reconstructive knee surgery, rest and stay off of your feet as much as possible. When you have to be up and about, use crutches. This period will vary depending on the rehabilitation plan your doctor believes best for you.

• 2

  Getting your range of motion back is very important. You can accomplish this by doing exercises that focus on getting this motion back, like knee extensions or heel slides.

• 3

  Apply ice to your knee and surrounding area. This helps get rid of the swelling. Keep you leg elevated while someone applies ice.

• 4

  Once your doctor gives you the go-ahead, you can start working to regain the strength in your surgically repaired knee. This calls for strength training. Completing exercises such as hamstring curls and leg presses with light weights can help build up your strength.

• 5

  Participating in sports or your profession will be at your doctor's discretion. Depending on the severity of the knee surgery, recuperation can take from six to 12 weeks.