Elena 10 days since surgery

by Elena
(Katoomba, Australia)

I am 52 and have 3 teens and run a business. Whilst I played a lot of sport when I was younger and like to think I am active I am probably out of condition. I have been playing social basketball for the last few years in a mixed team with friends and kids. I fell sideways and landed on my knee. After a few months of denial and improper diagnosis I eventually had an MRI and 10 days ago had the ACL (using my hamstring) surgery.

Unlike a lot of the stories here (which causes me to worry a bit) I was out of hospital four hours after the op. My surgeon had advised I take crutches with me for the hospital's benefit but did not believe I would need to use them. I did a little that afternoon but was walking by the evening. I needed to take one painkiller that night and since then I take panadol from time to time. The knee is a pain centre for sure but I am pretty well completely mobile. I spent much of the 3 days after the op in bed and doing the exercises recommended by the hospital. I went to my first physio the day after surgery and was back at work on the 4th day.

At a follow up appointment with the surgeon's assistant one week after the op I was told I could do as much as I felt I could manage but to avoid jogging as the repetitive effect would be bad (fine by me).

Everyone on this site seems to have a knee brace - should I have one too (or is that I am older and not envisioning a 'sporting' life). I am desperate to get back to the social basketball but also very nervous - would hate to have this happen again.

Elena