ACL exercises can typically be broken into stages. During each stage you must take care to follow your physician's specific directions and guidelines. Also, never assume that an activity or exercise is safe just because it doesn't cause pain. Obtain your physician's or health care provider's approval prior to initiating your exercise program.
Week One
Quadricep contractions may be initiated on the day of surgery. Tighten the top of your leg and hold for three to five seconds. You can do this either seated or lying down. Add straight leg raises as you are able. Lie on your back with your opposite leg bent. Contract your quad and lift your leg until your upper thighs are parallel. Hold three to five seconds and lower. Initiate heel and wall slides to improve knee bending or flexion. Lying on your back, with your leg up against the wall, slide your heel down toward the floor.
Weeks Two to Six
While continuing with your initial exercise program, you may increase your exercises, as long as you are not experiencing increased pain and swelling. You may also try biking without resistance for increased range of motion. A stationary bike allows for no resistance and complete control. Try adding wall squats within a pain-free range. Lateral or side steps can be added with a low step. Begin proprioceptive or balance training. Walking in the water during this time period may increase your ability to walk properly.
Weeks Six to Twelve
Continue working on range of motion exercises. Strengthening exercises may include calf raises, mini or partial squats ( 0 to 45 degrees), Swimming with straight leg kicking and walking can be included in your exercise program at this time. Begin jumping rope and add lunges as tolerated. Maintain control and proper technique for all exercises.
Thirteen Weeks and Beyond
Continue your exercise program as above, increasing resistance and difficulty levels as tolerated. If you aren't limping, you can try jogging. At four months, with your doctor's approval, you may begin to add cutting-type running patterns with agility and sports drills.
Caution
Because of the nature of the healing process, it is imperative that you avoid causing stress to the ligament during the healing process. Always follow the recommendations of your health care provider.
References
- "Journal Of American Physical Therapy Association": Open Versus Closed Kinetic Chain Exercise: Issues in Rehabilitation After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstructive Surgery; C. Kelley Fitzgerald; Dec. 1997
- Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine and Athletic Trauma: Orthopedic Sports Medicine Corner: Guidelines for the 1st Week after ACL Reconstruction
- ACL Soluions: Rehabilitation
