If you’ve just had ACL reconstruction surgery or you’re preparing for it, you probably have a lot of questions about what comes next. With proper care and some lifestyle adjustments, you can recover and return to doing the things you enjoy. Here’s all you need to know.
The First Few Days: Rest, Recovery, and Pain Management
The first few days after ACL reconstruction surgery are crucial for getting your body settled and preparing for a smooth recovery. You’ll likely wear a knee brace to keep your joint stable and use crutches to get around. Icing the knee regularly, keeping it elevated, and taking your prescribed medication will help reduce pain and swelling.
Before surgery, it’s wise to prepare your home. Clear pathways, set up a recovery area near the bathroom, and place essentials within easy reach. You’ll likely need help with tasks such as getting in and out of bed, showering, or even using the toilet for the first few days.
Most people start walking short distances with crutches within a day or two, just around the house.
The Rehab Journey: What to Expect Week by Week
Physiotherapy is the backbone of your recovery. It’s not always easy, but it’s what gets you moving again. Here’s a rough breakdown of how the rehab journey usually goes:
- Weeks 1–2: Focus on reducing swelling and gently working on knee extension and flexion. Small movements, but big impact.
- Weeks 3–6: You’ll start weight-bearing exercises and work on range of motion.
- Weeks 6–12: Strength training begins in earnest, along with balance and stability work.
- 3–6 months: More dynamic activities, possibly including jogging or low-impact sports drills—if your doctor gives the green light.
Some days will feel slow. Progress might come in waves. That’s normal. The key is consistency, sticking to your exercises and trusting the recovery process, even when it feels tough.
Returning to Sports and Physical Activity
If you’re active or play sports, you’re probably wondering when you can return to your favourite activities. There’s no exact timeline, but here’s what to know:
- Low-impact sports: Patients are usually able to return to activities like swimming or cycling 3–4 months in.
- High-impact or pivoting sports: For high-intensity activities like soccer, basketball, or skiing, most doctors recommend waiting 9–12 months.
Staying Active and Protecting Your Knee Long-Term
Just because you’ve been cleared to run again doesn’t mean rehab is over; it’s the start of a long-term relationship with your body. Even after recovery, your knee needs care and attention. Here’s how to stay active while keeping it safe:
- Warm up before the activity. Cold muscles and joints are more vulnerable to injury.
- Cross-train with low-impact activities to build strength without placing constant stress on your knees.
- Strengthen your whole body, especially your hips and core.
- Listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
When to Speak to Your Doctor
Some symptoms are common in recovery. But others might signal a problem. Reach out to your doctor if you notice:
- Persistent swelling or sharp pain that doesn’t ease with rest
- A feeling of instability or “giving way”
- Trouble fully straightening or bending the knee
Don’t wait your pain out. Early intervention can prevent bigger issues later on. Also, be sure to keep up with your scheduled follow-ups. They’re a chance to track your progress and make sure your recovery is on course.
Realistic Expectations and Mental Recovery
It’s easy to focus only on the physical side of recovery, but the emotional journey is just as important. You might feel frustrated, impatient, or even scared. You might question if you’ll ever feel “normal” again. Those feelings are normal.
Talking to someone about it, whether it’s a physiotherapist, a mental health professional, or even a friend who has been through ACL reconstruction surgery, can make a difference.
You’ll also rebuild your confidence step by step. Each milestone, no matter how small, brings you closer to the life you want.
Choose ALPS Orthopaedic for ACL Reconstruction Recovery
At ALPS Orthopaedic, we help patients heal and thrive. We have years of experience in ACL reconstruction and post-op care. Our treatment approach is built around you, your goals, your pace and your priorities.
Book a consultation with us to learn more about ACL reconstruction surgery and the recovery process.
