Is walking good for recovery after ACL injury?

An ACL injury, often known as a torn ACL or rupture, is the ripping of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). To maintain the stability of the knee joint, the ACL is essential. It is vital to optimal knee movement and stability that the ACL joins the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). 

This type of injury is quite common among athletes, particularly in sports that require rapid stops, pivots, changes in direction, or jumping. Acute cruciate ligament injuries are common among athletes who participate in sports like football, rugby, and hockey.

The following signs are likely to manifest themselves in you if you have injured your ACL during a knee ligament injury.

The injury was followed by a loud “pop” sound.
Severe knee pain, inability to continue exercising.
Sudden swelling of the knee
A sense of instability or “giving way” when weight-bearing
Reduced range of motion

Physical therapy is a crucial aspect of rehabilitating an ACL injury, whether before or after surgery. A practice that is founded on evidence is something that we at GM Physiotherapy emphasise during the rehabilitation exercises. Our team is aware of the toll that an accident of this nature can take on a person both physically and psychologically. Our expert group of physiotherapists will take the time to assess, plan, and provide you with an explanation of the rehabilitation plan that has been developed for your condition. GM Physiotherapy is committed to offering a rehabilitation program tailored specifically to your needs.

What is an ACL reconstruction surgery?

Not all ACL injuries need surgery, but when they do, it’s important to plan your recovery in advance. Good post-surgery rehabilitation is essential to make a full recovery. ACL surgery, also known as anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, is a popular knee procedure that involves repairing or replacing a ruptured knee ligament. The ACL is essential for knee stability, particularly in motions that include pivoting, jumping, or rapid changes in direction. ACL surgery is a serious yet common operation for treating ACL injuries, particularly among active individuals and athletes, as it allows them to return to active lifestyles after injury.

When should you begin ACL rehabilitation?

Beginning physiotherapy as soon as possible after ACL surgery is essential for rehabilitation and to promote the healing process and improve recovery time. Most patients are surprised to learn that physical therapy begins within a week of surgery. 

0 to 1 week (just after surgery): Physiotherapy often begins within a few days after the surgery. The primary goals at this stage are to minimise swelling, manage pain, and prevent blood clots. Gentle range-of-motion exercises are included, coupled with modest hamstring and quadriceps activities.

1–4 Weeks (Early Rehab): This stage focuses on increasing knee movement, reducing swelling, and gradually adding weight-bearing exercises based on the patient’s comfort. To help patients progress in their recovery after ACL surgery, therapists may use hands-on treatments, guided exercises, and therapy equipment.

1–3 Months (Intermediate Stage): Rehabilitation now concentrates on improving strength, flexibility, and adding more functional activities according to the patient’s lifestyle or sport.

3–6+ Months (Advanced Rehab): The last stage is intended to restore complete strength, stability, and coordination. Training progresses to prepare the patient for daily activities or returning to sports.

When can you walk following ACL surgery?

For athletes or others who enjoy sports, the thought of having to spend any time away from their feet is a nightmare. After surgery on the ACL, the amount of time it takes to start walking again might vary greatly based on several different factors. Walking is encouraged at an early stage in your recovery program, which is the good news. 

0–2 Weeks (Just After Surgery): Immediately after surgery, you may start walking with the assistance of crutches. This allows you to safely apply weight to your operated leg while protecting the healing graft. It depends on the amount of pain you are experiencing as well as the recommendations given to you by your surgeon.

2–4 Weeks (Early Recovery): If your knee is stable and the discomfort is under control, you can start putting greater weight on your leg. While others may be able to walk short distances without the assistance of crutches, some may need only one crutch or a cane to move.

4–6 Weeks (Intermediate Stage): At this stage, many patients can walk normally without assistance. The primary objective is to walk for longer distances and longer periods while maintaining a steady and supported knee position.

6–12 Weeks and Beyond (Later Recovery): Most people are now able to walk comfortably and independently. Therapy focuses on walking naturally, ensuring that the knee straightens properly, and eliminating any remaining pain or swelling.

Conclusion

Following knee surgery or a tear of the ACL, walking is an essential component of your ACL rehab program. Walking helps relieve discomfort and swelling, encourages blood flow, and begins to strengthen the muscles around the knee when it is introduced safely and gradually. It is an essential stage in the rehabilitation of your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), particularly when you are being instructed by a competent physical therapist.

Restoring stability, improving movement, and building long-term strength can be accomplished through the use of walking in conjunction with a specialised rehabilitation program. This is true regardless of whether you are recuperating from an ACL repair or just starting on your path after surgery.

GM Physiotherapy offers evidence-based rehabilitation programs that are tailored to fit your needs at each and every stage of the process. From the moment you start walking again to the moment you return to your sport or everyday routine, our team is here to support you during every stage of your recovery process.

Take the Next Step in Your ACL Recovery

Are you ready to strengthen your knee after an ACL tear or surgery?

Call us today at 0478 941 638. Let our experienced physical therapists manage your post-surgery recovery with a personalised rehabilitation program that reduces pain and swelling, restores mobility, and gets you back to doing what you love.