Things I Wish I Knew Before ACL Surgery: A Guide to ACL Recovery
It is a life-altering experience to suffer an ACL injury that requires surgery. I recently went through this process, and there are some things that could have been known or done better in preparation. To help you in preparing more effectively for your own ACL surgery and recovery journey, here’s a comprehensive guide covering very important aspects of the process.
1. Pre-Surgery Preparation is Key
Preparation before surgery is key, both physically and mentally. The key things involved in the process include:
Prehabilitation: These involve strengthening and mobility exercises that will make your knee musculature as strong as can be. It will always help aid in the healing process after surgery.
Mental Preparation: Recovery from an ACL may tend to be long and frustrating. Thus, one needs to prepare mentally for what is ahead.
- Diet: Take plenty of proteins and anti-inflammatory diets since they help heal the body faster.
2. The First Few Days Are the Worst
It is also very challenging during the first few days following surgery:
- Pain and Discomfort: Pain within the first 48-72 hours following ACL surgery can be quite unbearable, so take your prescribed medicines on time and keep the leg in a raised position.
- Mobility Problems: You will most likely be on crutches, so something as simple as going to the bathroom or even cooking becomes rather inconvenient. You will definitely need assistance for at least one week.
- Ice, Ice, and More Ice: Swelling could be quite nasty within those first three days; that’s why icing of the knee is done repeatedly every couple of hours to help combat swelling.
3. Rehabilitation Will Be a Long Process
Recovery from ACL surgery does not occur overnight. Several phases you will go through:
- Physical Therapy (PT): ACL recovery in a nutshell. PT is going to get you back to your strength, balance, and mobility around your knee. So, on point on those exercises.
- Small Wins Matter: You will celebrate your small wins -the moment you can bend your knee a little further or take the crutches away for a cane. It is those small wins that keep you going.
4. Patience is Key
The recovery of the ACL can take anywhere between 6 to 12 months or even longer depending on your condition and goals. You must keep being patient at all times:
- Do not compare to others: Every body/condition is different. Just because a person is doing better than you does not mean he or she is recovering faster.
Setbacks Occur: Expect minor setbacks during the course of treatment; minuscule flare-ups of pain or swelling after increasing the activity level. Stay the course and stick to the plan.
5. It’s Not Just Physical Recovery – It’s Mental Too
Actually, mental recovery is also equally as challenging as the physical recovery pertaining to ACL surgery. Here’s a look at some of the mental aspects:
There could be numerous reasons due to which someone might be frustrated with his or her situation. They miss the feeling of doing what they have normally done, and frustration arises. Keep occupied in reading, hobbies, and in contact with friends.
This may make an individual afraid of re-injuring. Let your healthcare team and you be comfortable in taking time for recovery. Let this process be done gradually. You may begin with minor activities, then make your way to more serious issues, not just sports.
However, nutrition plays a big role in the healing process.
What you take in may accelerate or decelerate your recuperation:
Protein and Collagen
Proteins and collagens are essential nutrients to rebuild tissues. Ensure that you have proteins in your diet like chicken, fish, and eggs, supplemented if needed.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Consumption of fruits, vegetables, and anti-inflammatory-rich foods like that of Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and recover fast.
7. Scar Care and Mobility
At first glance, post-operative scars just don’t seem like something you need to pay much attention to, but actually taking care of them improves the long-term movement of patients:
Massage and Moisturize: Once your wound has closed, massaging the scar will help loosen up tissue so your limbs can move more.
Stretching: Don’t forget to stretch as your muscles and scar tissue can become tight and limit movement.
8. You May Need Some Support from Other People
Recovery is hard, and you will need to draw on the strength of friends, family, and even professionals for support:
- Emotional Support: Surround yourself with a positive network of people who can help you through tough times.
- Practical Help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help with household chores, errands, or even driving to get to PT appointments.
9. You’ll Appreciate Progress More Than Ever
Though ACL recovery is challenging, it can also be very rewarding:
Small victories. The first time you walk without crutches or for the first time you go up stairs will be tremendous accomplishments.
Patience, resilience, and a newfound appreciation for your body’s ability to heal.
10. Prevention of Further Injuries
Once healed, protecting your knee from future injuries has to be taken seriously:
- Strength Training: Strengthen your legs, but also support the muscles in your core and hips. Stronger basic roots can help reduce the pressure on your knee.
- Techniques: Your well-being is well taken care of with proper techniques for any sport or day to day exercise, thereby reducing the pressure on your joints.
Conclusion
ACL surgery and recovery can be tough and truly be an emotional rollercoaster, but by being prepared, you’ll face the challenges head-on with confidence. Knowing what to expect and how best to care for your body after surgery will be the difference between a successful recovery and getting back to the things you enjoy in life. Patience, persistence, and support all pay off!
