Recovering From A Torn ACL
Recovering From A Torn ACL
Your anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is an essential ligament that provides stability to the knee joint. This ligament is one of the most commonly injured areas of the knee, so proper care and precautions are vital for maintenance. Regardless of how you sustained a tear in your ACL, our team at Island Sports Physical Therapy will be there for you throughout the recovery process. We offer personalized treatment plans for a variety of sports-related injuries and other conditions. Contact us when you need Physical Therapy in East Meadow that you can count on.
ACL Surgery:
Most commonly, an ACL tear requires surgery. For example, if your knee buckles when putting weight on it or if you are an athlete, your doctor will most likely determine that surgery is necessary for proper treatment. During the procedure, the surgeon will remove the ligament and use a graft as a replacement. This graft will be comprised of tendon taken from another part of the body, usually the knee or hamstring. In most cases, you will be able to return home later that day, depending upon the severity and the preferences of yourself and the surgeon. Once the surgery has been completed, the next steps towards recovery will be to partake in physical therapy in East Meadow.
Length Of Recovery:
Depending on the severity of the injury, recovery time will vary from patient to patient. For some, the typical recovery period is six to nine months after surgery. For others, it may take between eight months and a full year to make a complete recovery. At Island Sports Physical Therapy, you can undergo physical therapy in East Meadow to help expedite your recovery time and get you back to doing what you love.
Treatment – Physical Therapy in East Meadow:
Taking part in physical therapy after surgery will help to restore strength and stability in the knee. The goals of physical therapy in East Meadow are divided into four phases, which are outlined below:
1. Helping To Heal the Knee: Phase one is all about protection and healing. The main goals are to start the process of restoring range of motion and regaining correct usage of your quadriceps muscles. You will learn to walk properly with your crutches and may even receive neuromuscular electrical stimulation to improve your ability to gently contract your knee.
2. Tossing the Crutches: The goal of this phase is to limit the use of crutches while still protecting the knee. During this phase, exercises to improve control of your quadriceps and increase the strength of your hips and hamstrings will be incorporated into your routine. Hopefully, performing these exercises will allow you to begin walking normally again.
3. Getting Stronger: During this phase, the goal is to build up enough strength to begin walking or even lightly jogging. This will be the time where your physical therapist will test the integrity of the repaired knee. If you are pain-free and it is determined that your knee is stable, you may be allowed to begin jogging.
4. Almost Back To Normal: In this final phase of physical therapy, running and normal physical activity can slowly be incorporated back into your life. However, it is important to remember not to overdo this, as pushing too hard can often reverse any progress you have made.
Island Sports Physical Therapy in East Meadow:
Throughout the rehabilitation and recovery process, it is important to listen to your body. Some patients may be ahead of schedule while recovering, while for others it may take longer than usual. At Island Sports Physical Therapy, our team will work to develop the perfect recovery plan to get you back on your feet. We can help you reach your recovery goals within a safe and appropriate timeframe. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us to begin your journey to recovery today!