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ACL Surgery Recovery–Setting Realistic Expectations
Many people expect to be back to normal in a few months, but ACL rehab takes time and a regiment of care. By taking recovery one step at a time, you set yourself up for a stronger, more stable knee in the long run.
Post-Surgery Care
The first few weeks after surgery are all about managing pain, reducing swelling, and protecting your knee. This stage sets the foundation for recovery, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Key steps include:
- Rest and Elevation: Keeping your leg elevated and using ice packs will help control swelling and minimise discomfort.
- Bracing and Crutches: Your doctor will likely recommend wearing a knee brace and using crutches to avoid putting weight on the healing joint.
- Pain Management: Prescription or over-the-counter pain medications may be necessary in the initial days.
- Gentle Range-of-Motion Exercises: You’ll begin light movements to prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
- Monitoring for Complications: Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or persistent swelling.
It’s normal to feel frustrated during this stage but remember—proper post-surgery care is crucial to a smooth recovery.
Rehabilitation Protocol
Regain Range of Motion
One of the first goals in rehab is regaining knee flexibility. Right after surgery, the knee may feel stiff and difficult to move. Physical therapists will guide you through gentle movements like:
- Heel slides to improve bending motion
- Passive stretching to reduce tightness
- Assisted leg raises to encourage mobility
Strengthen Muscles
As swelling subsides, rebuilding strength becomes the next priority. Since the quadriceps and hamstrings weaken significantly after ACL surgery, targeted exercises include:
- Quad sets to re-engage the front thigh muscles
- Hamstring curls to support knee stability
- Calf raises to strengthen the lower leg and improve balance
Improve Stability
With strength comes stability, which is essential for preventing future injuries. Exercises such as:
- Single-leg balancing on foam pads
- Step-ups and controlled lunges
- Proprioception drills (to enhance awareness of joint positioning)
Restore Function
The final stage focuses on restoring natural movement and function. This involves:
- Agility drills for quick reactions
- Sport-specific training (if applicable)
- Controlled impact exercises like jumping and pivoting
The goal isn’t just to regain mobility but to make sure your knee is strong enough to handle real-world movement confidently.
Phases of Rehabilitation
Early Phase (Weeks 1-6)
- Focus on pain management and reducing swelling
- Regain basic range of motion (goal: achieve full extension)
- Start light muscle activation exercises
- Continue to use crutches and a brace as needed
Intermediate Phase (Weeks 6-12)
- Increase lower body strength and balance
- Progress to bodyweight exercises like squats and lunges
- Start light stationary cycling for mobility
Advanced Phase (Months 3-6)
- Build endurance and coordination
- Begin controlled running and jumping drills
- Improve stability under dynamic movements
Return to Activity Phase (Months 6-12+)
- Transition back into full-impact activities
- Undergo sport-specific testing for clearance
- Continue strengthening to prevent reinjury
Timeline for Recovery
Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process. Your progress will depend on several factors, including age, fitness level, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Here’s a general timeline:
Walking Without Crutches: 4-6 Weeks
Most people can transition off crutches within a month, though walking may still feel awkward or slow at first.
Returning to Light Activities: 3-6 Months
By this stage, patients can typically begin cycling, swimming, and other low-impact exercises. However, high-impact sports are still off-limits.
Returning to Sports: 6-12 Months
A full return to high-impact activities like running, jumping, or contact sports usually requires at least six months of progressive training.
Potential Complications & Treatments
Although ACL surgery has a high success rate, complications can arise. Being aware of these risks can help you take action early if problems occur.
Infection
Though rare, infections can develop at the surgical site. Signs include:
- Increased swelling, warmth, or redness
- Persistent pain
- Drainage from the incision
- Fever
Treatment usually involves antibiotics, but severe cases may require additional intervention.
Graft Failure
The new ACL graft is vulnerable in the early months. Too much strain can cause it to fail. Patients should follow rehabilitation guidelines strictly to avoid this issue.
Stiffness
If the range of motion doesn’t improve as expected, your physical therapist may introduce more aggressive stretching techniques. In rare cases, a second surgery may be needed.
Blood Clots
Extended immobility increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). To reduce risk:
- Perform ankle pumps and simple leg movements regularly
- Wear compression socks
- Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sitting
Looking for a Doctor for ACL Surgery in Singapore?
Recovering from ACL surgery takes time, but the right care can make all the difference. At Spire Orthopaedic, we specialise in ACL surgery and post-surgical rehabilitation in Singapore, helping you return to your active lifestyle safely. Whether you’re an athlete looking for a tailored recovery plan or simply want to regain pain-free movement, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Don’t leave your recovery to chance—get expert guidance and a comprehensive rehabilitation plan tailored to you. Contact Spire Orthopaedic today and take the first step towards a full recovery.