Most anterior cruciate ligament or ACL tears require reconstructive knee surgery, but people with only partial tears without knee instability might avoid surgery, says the American Academy of Orthpaedic Surgeons. If you are willing to give up high-impact sports and adhere to a progressive physical therapy program, non-surgical rehabilitation might provide effective treatment. Pilates exercise plays a key role in this type of therapeutic program.
Time Frame
Pain, swelling and loss of range of motion characterize the immediate post-injury period. Your doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatory and strong pain medications, which cause drowsiness and interfere with your level of concentration. Concentration is one of the basic Pilates principles, so its best to avoid Pilates workouts during this time frame. Start your Pilates program when you no longer require pain medication and when the swelling in your knee subsides. In the meantime, perform flexion and extension exercises that help you regain full range of motion.
Contraindicated Pilates Exercises
A contraindicated exercise is one that is inadvisable for certain physical conditions. While most Pilates exercises are not contraindicated for anyone with a torn ACL, some may cause considerable discomfort. Exercises performed in the kneeling position, or on all fours, might put excessive strain on your kneecap. Doctors and physical therapists encourage weight-bearing exercises, but an entire hour of standing up and working against resistance might trigger pain during the early stages of rehabilitation. Choose classes that offer Pilates exercises in all body positions.
Abdominal and Leg Exercises
The extensive abdominal workouts that characterize Pilates classes indirectly benefit your torn ACL. Most exercises use a supine position, and many keep both legs elevated for an extended time period. This extended leg elevation period might bring down any residual swelling in your injured knee. Many of the Pilates abdominal exercises use bending and straightening movements, which help you regain your range of motion. The Pilates method also features an extensive prone, supine and side-lying series for your leg muscles. These exercises target your inner and outer thighs, which play an important role in knee stabilization.
Pilates Equipment
Many physical therapy clinics have a Pilates Reformer, a machine that has a moving platform, a foot-bar, a set of resistance springs and a set of cables. The Pilates Reformer foot bar keeps your feet in a fixed position. This facilitates closed chain exercises, which enhance knee-joint stability. The Pilates Chair, which features a platform and a spring-controlled foot pedal, provides a series of effective standing exercises, which help you regain balance while strengthening your leg muscles.
