ACL Post-Operative Physiotherapy Program
ACL tears or injuries happen due to sports-related injuries, falls and accidents. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation is the first course of treatment for ACL injuries. When the conservative treatments are not enough to return patients to their pre-injury activity level, an operation to repair or reconstruct ACL is necessary. The success of an ACL reconstruction starts at the operation room but is guaranteed with proper rehabilitation and return to activity program offered by a sports physiotherapist. A successful outcome requires your commitment to an exercise program designed specifically for you to optimize your results and safely return you to your pre-injury activities.
Usually, after the ACL operation, the physiotherapist in the hospital will provide you with simple exercises to minimize complications such as chest infection or DVT’s and assist you with walking using crutches. Some early strengthening or range of motion exercises may also be included in your initial physiotherapy sessions. Once you are discharged, you’ll commonly require re-assessment and checking of your progress.
Click HERE to watch top 3 exercises for ACL Injury
After the operation, whether it be an ACL repair or ACL reconstruction, you will require an exercise regimen to fully regain your strength, flexibility, and function. A qualified and trained registered physiotherapist with experience in post-operative rehabilitation in Toronto is the best partner for you in your recovery.
At Physiomobility, our physiotherapists, massage therapists, and exercise therapists can assist you in restoring your mobility, strength, and function in your physiotherapy after an ACL repair or ACL reconstruction. We are familiar with protocols commonly advised after surgeries performed in Sunnybrook hospital and North York General Hospital. We’ll happily liaise with your surgeon to determine any specific requirements based on your individual surgery.
Will my knee return to normal after ACL repair or ACL reconstruction physiotherapy?
There will be some level of pain for the first 2-3 days. Frequent icing and elevation to control swelling are advisable. Commonly medication such as Tylenol and/or some narcotics and anti-inflammatory medication are prescribed to manage pain related to the surgery. Even with an ACL reconstructive procedure and completing a full rehabilitation program, expecting a completely normal knee might not be realistic. Such procedures increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the knee in the future. Majority of patients are able to return to their pre-injury level of activity or sports.
ACL post-operative rehabilitation program usually is 6-12 weeks in length.
ACL, Anterior Cruciate Ligament, is one of the most important knee ligaments that strengthen and stabilize your knee joint. Made of fibrous and tough material, the ACL control the motion of the knee by limiting the mobility of the knee joint. ACL tear is one of the most common injuries of the knee. If the ACL is injured or ruptured, it can cause an incapacitating knee ligament injury.
ACL is a non-contact injury common among sports players. Female players have a high risk of injuring their ACL while taking part in a competitive sport. It is suggested that hormones strength and biomechanical factors make women more prone to these injuries.
Some of the common symptoms of an injury to the ACL include
- A loud popping sensation or noise in the knee
- Loss of motion or reduction of range
- Swelling of the knee
- Severe pain in the knee that leads to the inability to continue the ongoing activity
The best way to treat ACL tears and prevent them from happening include balance retraining, functional enhancement, leg strengthening and agility exercises that your physiotherapist will recommend you. These exercises can prevent ACL tears from occurring again.
Common Treatment Options
- Physical Therapy & rehabilitation program
- Bracing
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- ACL surgery
How is ACL tears treated by physiotherapy?
At Physiomobility our team of physiotherapists and exercise therapists have extensive training and experience in rehabilitation protocols for many constructive operations related to sports or accident related injuries.
Click here to read more about how a sports physiotherapist at Physiomobility can help you regain your mobility & strength and get back to your normal life.
Author: Clarence Lau, Registered Physiotherapist at Physiomobility Don Mills
