Are you thinking about undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery? Maybe you sustained a complete ligament tear. Or perhaps your ligament only partially tore, but conservative treatments have failed to provide sufficient relief. Either way, one of your top concerns is likely how long it will take you to recover from the procedure. We have the answers you need below.

What Does ACL Reconstruction Surgery Involve?

Before discussing the recovery timeline for an ACL reconstruction, it may be helpful to explain exactly what occurs during this procedure. During an ACL reconstruction, the surgeon replaces the damaged ligament with grafted tissue, which may be donated or taken from the patient’s own body (usually from their hamstring, patellar tendon, or quadriceps).

How Long Does It Take to Recover From ACL Reconstruction Surgery?

The recovery timeline for an ACL reconstruction will vary from one patient to another depending on factors such as their overall health and the type of surgery performed (e.g., open surgery versus a minimally invasive procedure). That’s why it’s so important to follow the personalized instructions provided by your surgeon. Generally speaking, though, many people are able to resume most of their regular activities within a few weeks, and they typically regain full use of their knee within several months to a year.

While you shouldn’t try to rush your recovery, there are certain steps you can take to shorten the recovery period and improve your chances of having a successful outcome. For example, if your surgeon says it’s alright to do so, you should:

• Use the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) to reduce swelling.
• Take pain medication as instructed, since excessive pain could prevent you from completing the other steps needed to ensure a successful recovery.
• Stay active to prevent muscular atrophy, but take care to avoid overexerting yourself.
• Rest as needed and be sure to get enough sleep.

One of the best things you can do to speed up your recovery from an ACL reconstruction is attend physical therapy/rehabilitation sessions as instructed by your surgeon. During those sessions, a therapist can guide you through exercises designed to improve your strength, stability, and range of motion. It’s also important to follow your therapist’s directions for an at-home exercise regimen.

Performing ACL Reconstructions in Tampa Bay

If you’ve been told that you need an ACL reconstruction—or if you suspect that you might be a good candidate for the procedure—you can entrust your care to the skilled team at Tampa Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Group, a division of Florida Medical Clinic. We’ve been treating patients since 1949—in fact, we’re the oldest orthopaedic center and sports injury clinic in Tampa, Florida—and we have extensive experience performing ACL reconstructions.

To learn more about our practice and the ACL reconstructions we offer for patients in this area, contact Tampa Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Group today. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and arrange a time for you to attend a consultation at our Tampa, FL, office.