Alisdair ACL Surgery

by Alisdair Burgess
(Dubai)

I had my ACL reconstruction 4 weeks ago. It was the Bone Tendon Bone graft. The operation was a success from what I was told. I couldnt wear the full leg brace from more than a couple of days as it kept cutting of the circulation to calve. Plenty of swelling and bruising as can be expected. I have had no physio as I have not been told to!!! So I try and work as much as I can at home. I am 5'10" tall and weigh in at 118 kgs (not sure in lbs) but heavy anyway. So to date I have been able to walk with only one crutch. I am still limping and the crutch gives me that extra confidence to walk further. I still get some swelling round the knee if I have been on my feet for quite some time.

Anyway, as far as movement is concerned, I can do all the rotating of the ankle (sure this is done early for most people) If i sit down I can have my knee bent the same as the other, although after some time when I go to move my knee gets a bit painful right on the knee cap. I don't have any pain in my knee and never did since the operation, however when i lie on my stomach and try and bend my knee (leg curl) I can only go to probably 45 degrees until I get restriction and pain to the shin on the inside of the leg and also the knee, This is becoming very frustrating as the more I want to keep the knee working I find that it still too difficult.

Any ideas if I should still be getting a sharp pain in the knee and just below? I wouldnt dare try and do a squat yet as I just dont think it would hold. I have started training in the water. Simple walking forwards, backwards, side etc.

If anyone can gauge how I am doing please fell free to give me some advice.

Thanks and to good health and Knees