The recovery for an ACL reconstruction generally has several key phases including, recovery after surgery, improving muscle activation and strength, functional development, return to sport and long term prevention and knee health.
Immediately after ACL reconstruction there is an expectation to have limited activity for several weeks, although this depends on the surgery type and surgeon orders there are some common grounds.
- It is likely a form of bracing or aids will be required for 1-2 weeks, this could be a knee brace or crutches.
- Reduced activity and mobility is needed, and often several weeks off work is likely
- General surgery effects such as swelling, numbness and stiffness is quite normal and expected
The initial phase after surgery will focus on swelling control, improving knee range of motion, maintaining and activating key muscles. This should gradually improve over the ensuing months and rehabilitation will become more detailed and focused on improving good movement technique, strength and control.
Generally the major milestones are beginning running around 3 months, commencing limited sport related activities at 6 months and return to competitive sport at 12 months. These are general timeframes and can change on quality of rehabilitation, surgeon guidance and other post surgery factors.
Video link – Menzel? Athlete / story summary of the process