ACL Reconstruction Recovery Time: Walking, Running & Playing Sports

When You Need Joint Replacement Surgery

Approximately 1.25 million people in the USA each year have a form of joint replacement surgery. From walking and running to basketball and baseball, people tear ligaments in a swath of sporting activities. Doctors make small incisions to remove or repair problematic tissue when patients need to replace a joint. In the aftermath, countless patients often experience less pain and a better quality of life overall. To maximize the benefits of a new joint while minimizing the risk of re-injury, some physicians recommend several weeks of healing to ensure proper healing. Afterward, a daily low-impact exercise plan helps the joint heal, gradually building back muscle and range of motion. For a total recovery, no matter the sport, patients must prepare for surgery and plan for rehabilitation afterward.

What does the injury look like?

To first determine, then treat an ACL tear, clinicians use patient history, clinical assessments, and imaging technology. Often, anterior cruciate ligament injuries happen when another injury is present. Exercise isn’t a hard and fast requirement after surgery, but physical therapy can offer benefits such as less recovery time and minimal pain overall. According to 1 study, participants who completed physical therapy before surgery recovered in 34.2 weeks, compared to 42.5 weeks in the group that did not exercise before surgery. Making time for physical therapy before the procedure helps build up muscle in the impacted leg, maximizing mobility while minimizing the risk of re-injury after surgery.

The benefits of PT

Oftentimes, the initial injury is caused by immediate changes in direction while running, as found in soccer and basketball. To recover from a movement-based tendon injury as fast as possible, consistent, daily activity is key. To strengthen the quadriceps muscles, many doctors suggest using the stationary bike or elliptical in the gym. Cardiovascular exercises that strengthen the quads are key to expediting recovery time. Stable quads protect the new joint, minimizing the risk of re-injury.

Knee pushdowns

Exercises targeting the glutes are vital to ensure the legs have enough support and stability to heal. Knee-push downs help build muscle while improving the leg’s extension abilities. Begin by lying on the floor with a rolled-up towel positioned beneath the ankles. Press the knees toward the floor using the quads, hold for 5 seconds and repeat 20 times.

Running down the road to recovery

From spin class and hot yoga to walking the dog and playing basketball, ligament injuries come in all shapes and sizes. No matter the patient, many experts suggest managing a tear with surgical intervention followed by a comprehensive physical therapy plan. While a torn ACL can be painful and disruptive, countless patients find relief with proper treatment and support.