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ACL Reconstruction Recovery

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the stabilizing ligament for the knee. If you tear this ligament and want to maintain a physically active life, your doctor will likely recommend ACL reconstructive surgery, which will usually involve using a piece of your patellar tendon to replace the torn ligament. Recovery from this surgery will be long, and sometimes painful, but your knee should be close to 100 percent after six to nine months.

  1. Presurgery

    • Your doctor will want to make sure the muscles around the knee are as strong as possible, so you will be doing exercises to strengthen your quadriceps and hamstrings. This will help you in the rehabilitation process.

    First Month

    • There will be significant swelling and pain in the knee. You will wear a brace to protect the knee. Simple quad-strengthening exercises will begin.

    Second Month

    • Patient will be able to swim and do light jogging in a pool. Emphasis will be placed on stretching to prevent scar tissue buildup and regain full range of motion.

    Third Month

    • Cycling can begin to strengthen the quads and regain endurance. You may walk vigorously on a hard surface.

    Fourth and Fifth Months

    • A therapist will introduce more aggressive weight training, including leg presses, curls, and leg extensions (but not full extension). Slow running on a hard surface can begin.

    Six Months to a Year

    • A variety of running programs involving stopping, cutting and turning quickly will be implemented. Strength training should bring the surgically repaired knee to about the same strength as your other knee. Once your doctor determines that your knee is stable and as strong as your opposite knee, you will be cleared to return to sports.

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