Post ACL Reconstruction Instructions
Immediately after surgery you can expect some pain and swelling. Everyone is different as is each surgery, so
don't compare your recovery with others. You need to keep ice on the knee as much as possible (at least 30-
40minutesevery two hours) or use the cryo-cuff continuously. Ice is most important over the first 24-48 hours,
but should be continued for several days longer. Make sure that you feel the cooling effect. If your hamstrings
were used for the graft, you can expect to have some pain in the inner portion and back of your thigh. It is not
unusual to develop swelling and bruising on the inner thigh and calf.
- ACTIVITY
Although the incisions ate small, your knee has undergone quite a bit of surgery. During the initial several
days WALKING SHOULD BE LIMITED to that which is necessary and reasonably comfortable. Try to
keep the leg elevated as much as possible and avoid long periods of time with the leg down. Increased pain
and swelling indicates that you should reduce your activity level. Placing weight on the leg and walking is of
no harm unless specifically indicated by us. Crutches should be used for as long as you need them for
comfort and balance. Don't give the crutches up until you can walk without a limp (usually at least 2
weeks). Begin the exercises as instructed on the last page. The ankle pumps are important to start immediately. The other exercises may be phased in over the first two weeks. It is sometimes difficult to get your
knee fully straight after ACL surges We, therefore, encourage you to try and straighten your knee as soon
as possible after the surges Avoid keeping pillows directly behind the knee. It is better to place the pillow
under the calf.
- MEDICATIONS
You may have been given a pain killed anti-inflammatory to take the night before your surgery (Ibuprofen).
Continue this for the first week after the surgery. You will also be given a prescription for a strong
pain killer. Use only as necessary and never more than prescribed. We also recommend that you do not
drive while on this medication. After the first week: Tylenol, Advil, or Ibuprofen should provide you with
enough pain relief and we encourage you to try and transition to these alternative pain medications as soon
as you are able. We also recommend that you take one aspirin tablet each day unless you are allergic to
aspirin or have a history of ulcer disease or gastritis. This will help prevent blood clot formation in your leg.
- DRESSING AND SHOWER INSTRUCTIONS
Change the bandage daily after post-op day 2. You may use gauze bandages or band aids. Reapply ace
bandage to knee. Don't apply too tightly. You should not shower or get the incision wet until after
the fourth day as long as there is no continued drainage from the incision site. If there is any drainage under
the bandage, cover the incision and try again the next day.
Questions:
When can I drive?
You can drive when you can easily get into and out of the car without difficulty, when you have enough control
of your leg that you can feel safe and confident behind the wheel and you are no longer taking pain medications.
This is usually about 2 - 3 weeks for the left knee and 3 - 4 weeks for the right knee.
When can I return to work or school?
This really depends upon the demands of your job. Plan to take at least 7 - 10 days off of work or school.
More physically demanding jobs may take 3 - 4 months to return to.
When can I run?
Running is allowed after full range of motion, good strength and proprioception (balance) is attained. The
earliest you can begin running straight ahead on a level surface is 8 to I0 weeks but often it takes 3 - 4 months.
Your physical therapist will help guide you.
Do I need a Brace?
We usually do not prescribe a brace immediately following your surgery
but do recommend a functional derotation brace during “at risk”
activities as you return to sports. This will be prescribed around 3 to
4 months postoperatively if you do not already have one. We recommend
you use this brace for these activities for at least the first two years.
When can I return to sports?
You may return to “at risk” sports, those which require cutting
and twisting (ie. Soccer, basketball) or are unpredictable (ie. Skiing,
football) only after you have regained your full range of motion, strength
and balance. This is usually takes about 6 months but never less than
4 months.
POTENTIAL PROBLEMS:
A range of surgical procedures done arthroscopically makes
the recovery course and improvement times variable. You should not compare
your course with that of other individuals. There are certain potential
“deviations” from the routine course that you should be aware
of.
- BLEEDING OR DRAINAGE
Drainage is expected. A large amount of fluid is used during the procedure
and this will drain out of the incisions. If the dressing becomes
saturated, apply another one. If drainage continues after 24 hours
or you think the drainage is excessive…….Call the office.
- FEVER
If you have a temperature greater than 101 degrees on more than one
reading 48 hours or more after surgery……..Call the office.
- SWELLING
Swelling, numbness, coldness and tingling are not uncommon. It may
be an indication that the ace bandage is too tight. Loosen it and
elevate your leg. If you feel that you are having increasing swelling
in the calf or foot……..Call the office.
- DISCOLORATION
You can expect discoloration (black and blue changes) in the back
of your thigh and calf, especially if the hamstrings were used for
you graft. Continue to ice and stretch. Don’t worry about discoloration,
but call if there is pain in the calf that is getting worse instead
of better.
- UNRELENTING PAIN
If pain remains severe 48 hours after surgery……..Call
the office.
If you have not yet made your follow up appointment, please call the
office and do so.
|