A blow to the side of your knee, a quick change of direction or hyperextending your knee are possible causes of an ACL injury. Your ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, provides rotational stability to your knee and is often repaired surgically if torn, according to Medline Plus. ACL reconstruction may require up to six months of recovery time and will include physical therapy to help you return to full mobility.
ACL Reconstruction
ACL reconstruction includes replacing your damaged knee ligament with a new ligament. The two most common places to get tissue to replace your injured ligament are from another tendon in your knee or from your hamstring. Your orthopedic surgeon will remove your damaged ligament and fasten your new ligament in place using screws or other devices. You will probably be able to return home following your ACL reconstruction procedure. Physical therapy begins soon after.
Physical Therapy
The goals of physical therapy are to restore full mobility and range of motion to your knee. The initial stages of physical therapy typically include ice and elevation treatment to reduce swelling and non-weight-bearing exercises, including exercises to help you regain full extension and flexion of your knee. As your ligament heals and gets stronger, more exercises will be incorporated into your physical therapy program. University of Minnesota Orthopaedics reports that approximately 12 weeks after your reconstructive surgery, some patients are able to return to jogging activities.
Exercises
Lying flat on your back with your legs extended and slowly bending your knee as far as possible without increasing your pain is a commonly prescribed exercise to improve your knee flexion. Other exercises included as part of your physical therapy include static exercises, or exercises that strengthen your muscles with little movement of your joint, reports Physio Advisor. For example, you can strengthen your quadriceps muscles by sitting on a table with your injured leg extended with a towel under your knee. Contract your quadriceps by pushing your knee down into the towel.
Considerations
Follow your doctor and physical therapist's instructions as you participate in your physical therapy program. The success of your ACL reconstruction depends on your ability to stick with your physical therapy instructions. While an ACL injury used to be a severe injury that ended the careers of many athletes, most people now fully recover and are able to return to full sports and physical activity.
