Question - ACL Recovery Timeline

by Gloria
(Casco, ME)

I had a patella graft ACL reocnstruction 4 weeks ago. I am 41 years old. My knee flexion is 105 degrees after 4 weeks, and my knee extension was good, but it has been getting worse this past week. I am doing all of my PT exercises.

This past week I started riging my road bike inside on my trainer. I had to put the seat and handlebars way up high, and it takes me 2nd or 3rd session to be able to peddle 360 degrees backwards. I have clip in pedals. I do not have my foot parallel to the pedal, I have it pointed downward throughout the pedal stroke, otherwise I cannot pedal the 360 degree rotation.

I feel like I am behind on the timeline.My PT guy does not know why. Do you have any input. I did stop taking Tylenol and ibuprofen in exchange for naproxen this past week. I have changed back to the Tylenol and ibuprofen. I have been doing some driving too. This may be irritating it, but I live 35 miles from my PT office and don't have family around to drive me. Friends drove me the first three weeks.

Comments for
Question - ACL Recovery Timeline

Average Rating starstarstarstarstar

Click here to add your own comments

Jul 23, 2008
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I wouldn't worry too much about the flexion
by: Bart - SII

It sounds like you are progressing well, even though it doesn't feel like it. Flexion of the knee will come with time - extension is the most important thing to work on. Being able to fully extend and lock the knee out is absolutely essential for normal walking and activities.

One thing you may try is massage around the scars and the front of the knee just below the patella. This area is notorious for a buildup of "gunk" for lack of a better term. Massage will help free up the tissue, cut down on excessive scarring, and will allow the knee to bend easier. It will also help with your extension.

You might also ask your PT to check your accessory motion, as you may be a candidate for joint mobilization at the tibio-femoral joint to help with your extension and flexion.

Hope this helps - comment back with other questions.

And hang in there!
Aug 01, 2008
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		6 WEEK UPDATE
by: gloria

I'm still having trouble sleeping through the night. Seems like an unusually slow recovery. The doctor said I have substantial scaring, so that is inhibiting my recovery.

I called the doctor's office today to request a sleep aid, but they gave me hydrocodone for pain. I am suppose to take one at bedtime and see how that works. Hopefully, it will work! I am tired of not sleeping. Last night I was up from 2:30am - 5:00 pm. I got to watch some silly movie about a love potient and then I watched Dallas. Eventually, I was tossing and turning again, trying to get comfortable enough to sleep. That didn't happen. Sleeping is torture!


I am still pedaling away on the bike. I lowered the seat back to its usual height. Working on a 360 degree pedal stroke, without flexing at the ankle.
Feb 11, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Slow Progress 8 Months Out
by: Anonymous

It's been 8 months since my surgery. I still do not have full extension or flexion.
Feb 16, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Dr.s problem or yours?
by: Reggie

I had Acl allograft and Meniscal repair in late Nov. 2008- I am at about 110 degrees movement, can't straighten my leg straight at all, and have nearly dead Peroneal nerve affecting my foot muscle movement besides.. I am dealing with my surgeon now on whether my struggles are due to his lack of knowledge or simply being my body is taking so long to progress.
Have you run into any problems with your recovery besides lack of flexion?
The more therapy I do the worse I feel- three weeks ago it was different but now I look like an 80 yr. old lady when I walk out instead of a barely limping 38 yr. old.
Apr 04, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar
by: Anonymous

Seems maybe the surgery didnt go well? i got mine done 12 days ago and i can straighten my leg all the way out and can bend it to about 90*.Maybe it has to do with age and how strong/weak your knee altogether is.Im 17 year old athlete so maybe that has somethng to do with it.
Apr 04, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		question:
by: Anonymous

Hi I am about 9 days post op and am having a lot of difficulty with flexion. I am doing well with extension (almost to 0*-about7?? ) and have just over 45* in extension-maybe to 50* but that is with great effort and quite a bit of pain(I was wimpering with tears rolling down my eyes the first time mt pt got me that far!)Is this normal? What do you think? I find that when I do my exercises, stretching my hamstring first, then doing heel slides gets me farther.Any advice?
Apr 17, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		3 Months Post-Op
by: Anonymous

First of all, for all of you that are 9 days, 12 days out, etc. I don't know if your surgeon told you or not but this is a really, really, slow recovery. You can't measure your progress day by day, it's more week by week. Any progress is progress and everybody is different. I had an ACL reconstruction and Lateral Meniscus repair 3 Months ago with a Patella tendon graft, I am 40 years old. Yes, it is painful and you'll actually have days you feel like you've gone backward. It's very frustrating and slow. I have extension of -2 and flexion of 114. Sometimes I can go for awhile without that changing. Just be patient and know it will get better but full recovery takes about a year.
Apr 23, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL repair...low flexibility
by: Anonymous

I had ACL reconstruction about 4 months ago. I'm a 31 year old PE Teacher so I'm on it all day long. Until about 1 month ago my recovery was going ok. Was running on it and using it well. The last month it seems to have completely seazed up. I only need to sit down for about 5 mins and I'm limping off like an old woman. My knee has terrible extension. It is nowhere near 0. My flexion is awful also and I cant sleep at night as i cant lay it straight. I also get alot of calf pain sometimes causing me to stop moving. The surgeon took a hamstring tendon to replace the ACL and I'm wondering if because my hamstrings have always been super unflexible, whether this has had an adverse affect on the movement capabilities.
Apr 23, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		10 Months Out, Still STIFF
by: Anonymous

Okay, it's been 10 months since my ACL reconstruction. I have 10 degrees of extension and about 100 degrees of flexion, without doing any PT exercises. I can get it to 2 degrees and 130 degrees with work. However, it does not stay there. It is SO frustrating! My surgeon said I have arthrofibrosis and that he may need to go in and scrape out the scar tissue. Any advice on this out there in internet land?
May 10, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Advice on Rehab
by: Heather

Hi, I live in Japan and had ACL replacment using the hamstring 5 months ago. I go to see a PT once a week but all they do is massage. Can`t complain but want to get back on the volleyball court ASAP. Was oked to bicycle just recently so trying my best to get to the gym two or three times a week. (three young children and work so...) Anyway, my question is...I have always been told when training on a three day schedule to do two sections of the body at a time. For example chest and bicept, back and tri etc. So, to get my legs strenghtened more, can I train them everytime I go in? I`m doing light leg press, ham curls and calf raises. BTW, I`m 40, injured myself for the first time when I was 21 and was told there is extensive damage to the bones of the knee. Minuscus (sp?) pretty much toast too! Any advice would be great!
May 11, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL recovery
by: Anonymous

I had ACL autograph with hamstring tendon + meniscus repair just over 5 weeks ago. While the first week was tough things improved pretty quickly. 10-days post op I was walking without crutches and at 125 degrees flexion, and able to ride the stationary bike. Full range of motion (145/0) was back by week 4. Even so, doc and PT say no running until 3 months post-op regardless of how it feels. The problems I've had are with sleeping...still have knee ache and stressed-out quad muscles that have kept me awake for hours. My PT is now focused on strengthing quads and calves. Hope to be playing soccer again by Sep or Oct. 47 / female (biffed skiing in early Mar)
May 16, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Extension
by: Anonymous

Hi. I sympathize with everybody here. I see how much hard work your recovery period takes. But don't get discouraged. Individual recovery will be different as we all know so keep at it. I do have some suggestions that I hope can help. To improve extension: 1. Put a heat pack (wrapped in 6-8 layers of hand towels, this seemed like a lot of towels but it gets REALLY HOT without you knowing it so BE CAREFUL!!!!)under your knee, mid thigh to mid calf for 10 mins. before you do your hams/calf stretching. This relaxes the muscles and makes it a little more "pliable" when you stretch. 2. Another way is to prop your heel on a rolled up bath towel or coffee can for abt. 5 mins.(you can put a hot pack under your knee again if you want). With the help of gravity this can assist with knee extension. 3. Lay on your stomach with your lower leg off the bed. Your knee should be off the bed as well (just above the knee). Put a rolled up towel just above your knee to prevent irritation of your surgical site). Try this for 5 mins then 10 as you get used to it.
May 16, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		RE: Advice on Rehab (by Heather)
by: Anonymous

Hi Heather. I wouldn't turn down massages either but there are so much more you can do to improve your knee. Light leg presses and calf raises are great (progress calf raise by doing singel leg calf raise), I wouldn't worry too much about your hamstring since it gets stronger a lot faster than the quads ( big muscle in front of the thigh) so I suggest that you add straight leg raises while on your back,elbow bent then elbow straight behind you as you get stronger. You can add quad sets (pressing the back of your knee down to the bed, do this frist before straight leg raise). Step ups: do this on the lowest step of the stair or whatever is available. Step up with your reconstructed knee then step off with the same knee/leg. Then turn and do this sideways.Mini squats (be sure that your knee does not go over your toes when you do this, you don't want to put too much pressure to your ACL right now). Weight shifting with toes/knee pointing forward NOT twisted, staggered your feet . Shift to the left-right-front-back. This add to the stability of the knee. IF YOU EXPERIENCED SEVERE PAIN, TOO MUCH INSTABILITY WITH ANY OF THESE EXERCISES, PLEASE DISCONTINUE AND SEE YOUR MD/PT. Goodluck.
May 16, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Rehab
by: Heather

Hi, Thanks. This is great advice. And I will add these into my workouts. But I guess my question is, how often a week can I do these? Everyday or just once or twice a week?

Thanks again.

Heather
May 17, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		RE: Rehab by Heather
by: Anonymous

We tell our patients to do these exercises 10reps, 2x a day, everyday. When you're doing quad sets (pressing your knee down to the bed, hold it for 10 secs, then relax). When it gets easier, add more reps. Control every motion. Don't just flop your legs down. Your leg presses, it's ok to do those everytime you go to your gym so don't worry that you don't get to do it everyday...hope this helped.
May 19, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Not yet ACL surgery
by: Anonymous

So I tore my ACL on my right knee on Apr 26 playing football.

My Ortho said I to wait until my knee gets full range of motion before scheduling surgery.

This is fine by me, actually it's now May 19, and my knee is getting better, but I know I want the surgery to return to sports.

What can I do pre-op to get my knee at the optimal position for surgery?

I've been slowly going back to the gym and doing bicycles and swimming, and walking in the water.

I won't be able to have my surgery until mid-July.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated
May 20, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		RE: Not yet ACL Sx
by: Anonymous

Hi! Swimming is a great low impact exercise. When you're doing the bike, have your seat higher and don't put too much resistance. Basic knee strengthening, quad sets (pushing your knee down to the bed, hold 5 secs then relax), SLR straight leg raise( lay on your back, affected leg straight then raise in front of you), heel slides (on your back again, bend knee then slide out)mini squats is good if it doesn't give you too much pain just make sure that when you squat, your knee doesn't go over your toes otherwise, you're just putting more stress to your ACL. Lay on your stomach, keep your leg straight and lift up, another version on your stomach still then bend your knee, lift up. 10 reps, 2x a day. When you're sore after, ice up your knee for no more than 20 mins. at a time. Goodluck.
May 20, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		11 Months Out
by: Anonymous

11 Months since my ACL surgery. My knee surgeon is recommending a second opinion, as I still have a stiff knee. Flexion seems to be getting a bit better. It maintains flexibility for longer periods of time. When I sit in a hard chair, it stiffens up more quickly. I have not gained much at all in the extension area. I still have about 8 degrees of bend in my knee. I'm between 110 and 8 degrees. I have started a strengthening routine at the gym, under the supervision of my physical therapist. I go three times a week. I can see my quads and hamstrings getting stronger, and it has only been 2 weeks. I have also started mountain biking on the road. I go relatively slow, since I bike with my dog attached to my waist. I look forward to my second opinion. Perhaps I will not require more surgery. I would prefer to improve through nonsurgical means.
May 28, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Didn't Heed Advice
by: Tammy

Female of 47 who snow skis. Torn ACL back in December and finally had surgery March 5th.Going on 12 weeks now since my ACL allograft surgery. Surgery went well and PT has been going great. I highly recommend twice a week with the same therapist to get full extension and flexion. My only challenge is to not over due since I am eager to get back to full recovery (hiking, biking, running). BEWARE! Last weekend I hiked up a mountain thinking my quads had gained enough strength to support my weight on the way down the hill. I made it down with support from my husband, however, my kneecap and tendon below my kneecap feels like crap. I have gone two steps backward. I just hope you heed some good advice and not challenge yourself. Or, if you do decide to climb a major hill you should wear a brace and possibly take a walking stick for support on the way down. If you experienced a similar situtation please write to me and tell me how long it took to recover from this stupid thing I did.
May 28, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		16 days out
by: Anonymous

My daughter is on her second acl recovery both using the patella tendon. Did the left one four years ago at age 15 and made a good recovery returning to her high school BB team in five months. She tore her right acl playing in college in April; had surgery 16 days ago and today had 118 degrees flexion and full extension to 0 degrees. She has 140 degrees flexion in her repaired left knee. Both had a little meniscus damage, that was trimmed out during surgery. The key is to stay with the program each and every day. Push yourself within the limits imposed by your doctor and PT. Do the exercises on your own. Continue to use Ice and Heat. And try to make a little progress every single day.
Jun 11, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL Hamstring Graft
by: Anonymous

Hi! I am 31 years old and I had my ACL reconstruction 3 weeks ago. I have been walking w/o crutches since day 1 of my surgery. I have full extension and can bend my knee just past 90 degrees. However, as a Kaiser patient I noticed that the PT is very quick 15 minutes/2 times a week...and sometimes less. You are really cranked through the system. It is really up to me to get my leg back in shape.

I have been struggling with my quad control, but leg lifts seem to be building up my strength. Anyone know of other exercises to build up quad control?

Also, I have a constant dull pain near my incision site. It pretty much cover the front of my upper shin. When will this go away?

Finally, the scar...has anyone tried Merderma cream for theirs? If so, are you please with the results? At $34 a pop I want to make certain it is worth it.

Good luck to everyone...and remember ice and exercise is our friend!
Jun 22, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL and menicus recovery
by: Anonymous

I'm going into my 5th week of recovery (I am 50 years old and very active) and have been very frustrated at the slow recovery from my surgery. After reading this site and seeing everyone else talking about the same issues, I'm feeling a little better as it seems my recovery is going pretty much like all the others.

I am going to therapy twice a week and doing a lot of home exercises as well daily. I almost have full extension straight and I'm up to 110 degrees bent which the PT says that's right on schedule. But I'm still having pain, swelling and stiffness....especially if I'm on my feet for too long or if I try walking too much. I am adviced to use one crutch still.

As far as the pain in the incision, my PT tells me to take and move the incision slowly back and forth and side to side to loosen up the scarring from the bone (being careful not to pull it apart, keep a little pressure on it to keep if from separating). The sooner it releases and moves freely it will help the pain go away.

It seems icing it helps a lot and you should continue doing this quite often. A bag of frozen vegatables works good for me for about 15 minutes on each knee (as my good knee is starting to hurt about as much as my surgery knee beings I'm using it for a lot of support these days).
Aug 03, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		13 Months Post-Op
by: Anonymous

I had arthroscopic surgery to remove my scar tissue. My knee is quite swollen, but I am less stiff now than I was before the surgery. I am hopeful that I will have a successful recovery. Ice, ice baby.
Aug 03, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		13 Months Post-Op
by: Anonymous

I had arthroscopic surgery to remove my scar tissue. My knee is quite swollen, but I am less stiff now than I was before the surgery. I am hopeful that I will have a successful recovery. Ice, ice baby.
Sep 13, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL Recovery
by: Sheryl

I'm a 48 year old woman, 2 weeks out tomorrow from patella graft acl reconstruction.Patience has never been my strong suit and I'm a little bummed at the length of the recovery timeline.Crutches are gone, full extension BUT I have tremendous pain in the back of my knee that prevents me from trying to bend my knee. I'm only at 90 degrees.Ice and meds help but I have this hard ball behind my knee, ouch!! Anyone else have this issue? Have'nt seen it on this site. Thanks-blessings to you all..
Sep 14, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		surgery
by: oliver

is getting surgery scary for a torn ACL?
Sep 14, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		GV reporting in
by: Anonymous

No, it is not scary getting the surgery. It is afterwards that's the pain in the ass. I am 15 months out from my initial surgery. I had scar tissue removed last month. My knee is still stiff. I don't think it will ever "normal" again. My body like to generate scar tissue, so scraping in out did not do too much to remedy the situation. I can walk without limping, most of the time. So, it is somewhat better, but not like I would want it to be. Yes, I did do all of my PT, and am still doing it.
Sep 23, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Timeline
by: Rosado

Tomorrow will be 4 weeks since my ACL surgery. My surgeon used my hamstring for repair. I feel pretty good and can walk fine without a limp and can go up and down stairs without much problems. I was off crutches 4-5 days and got on the excersice bike a week after surgery. As painful as it was my PT made me bike 10 min a day. The pain was from the swelling and fluid in the knee but the more I biked the better I felt. Doing stretches also helped. Bending my knee back 90 degrees every day helped alot too. Now I can bend my foot back almost all the way back to my butt.

I haven't told my PT but I've been doing some workouts that I maybe shouldnt. Ive been doing leg extensions and leg press with light weight. My PT says I wont be doing that till my 5th week but I went ahead and started it on my 3rd week and I think it has helped. Hope this helps
Sep 28, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		1 step forward and 2 steps back
by: Anonymous

ACL surgery June 23 using hamstring - therapy 3x's a week. Good extension and 125 degree bend, BUT a lot of pain the past 2 weeks and weakness in knee and feeling of stiffness - knee has given away 2x's in the past 4 days. Therapist thinks more testing needed, especially as pain is radiating both up and down leg starting at outer knee cap. Really getting down, seems as if it should be less painful at this stage even considering my age..61 but very active.
Sep 29, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Keep on truckn
by: Gdo

I am currently 3 weeks post op from acl repair. I have pretty good flexation. Knee is still a little swollen over the knee cap. I do utility contruction and planing to go back to work in a couple days. With a cane and a acl sports brace. I am 31yo and tore it playing semipro football. I have been riding a stationary bike for about a week now with hardly any resistance. I do get sore geting off the bike but I think you Just have to keep moving around to get rid of the soreness. I push myself pretty hard and let pain let me know when to quit. Then I rest. But I think moving around will keep a person from losing the flexation. That's my thought hopefully it helps someone.
Sep 30, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Hamstring ACL
by: Anonymous

Had hamstring ACL replacement. No miniscus tear, just straight ACL-

Going on week three, knee is doing great. Fully straight and at 105 at 1.5 weeks. I do not go back to P.T. until week 5 and he wants we close to walking as normal.

I do heel slides, quad tightening, leg lifts. I am starting to do my stationary bike, at 2 tension for 10 minutes, no pressure, just trying to get more movement. Off crutches, only use when I leave the house, just in case someone does not see me and runs in to me. Knee is still stiff and swollen, so ice a lot.
Oct 06, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL 4 weeks
by: Anonymous

I'm at 4 weeks and not doing very well. I'm only at 92 and still 9 to go to straighten it. The other day it felt as though I pulled something tying my shoe. I had a hamstring ACL reconstruct. Do you know if something as simple as tying your shoe? Maybe I just stretched it? I'm working very hard on the bending and straightening, but feels like it's never going to go further.. any advise?
Oct 28, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ahh the patella tendon graft
by: Anonymous

Have patience.
Keep riding your bike as I found it to be the best exercise to strengthen the knee itself. Before long you can be a tri girl or whatever you love but it takes time... stop thinking you're on a set timeline- your body will let you know when its ready and it might be longer than you're hearing....

Have faith!
Nov 29, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		MUST READ
by: I khan

Its a must read
hi to all friends

i ruptured my Acl on 31 0ct,1995 i showed it to many surgeons in peshawar but non of them were able to diagonse them,in 2004 in went to karachi for a job at there i visited agha khan hospital karachi and had my knee checkup one doctor naming pervez hashmi diagnosed it correctly by physical testing shortly speaking he was an an expert person later on i had an MRI which agreed with diagnosis.but since my family members were in peshawar so i decided to show my knee to a doctor in CMH pindi namend col sohail hafiz he alsoo diagnosed it without MRI scan i decided to have my knee reconstructed through him.he did a very good surgery but you can say say due to his meanness he did not referr me to a Physio therapist and by him self suggested me exercises i did what he advised but my recovery was very slow.on the other side he blamed me that i am not doing the exercises.anyhow the recover process was very slow but did not lose heart and did exercises regularly at present five years have passed i have almost 0 degree extension and about 110 degrtee flextion but i am still working hard one thing more i have done these exercises by my own because there are no expet phsiotherapist in pakistan and peshawar to guide me its my sincere advise for all my friends that before going for the surgery you must the following things.
1.check the competency of that doctor let your doctor diagnose the problem in your knee by the physical tests not just looking at the MRI scans.because doctors will put your knee under his knief just for money be sure that he is competent enough to do that surgery.
2.plz check thwe hospital records that how many Acl surgeries that doctor has performed.also meet those patients who have undrgone this surgery.ask them the problems they have faced.try to acquaint your self with all the procedures etc.
3.also search for an expert physio therapist who has done these sort of therapies dont go to quacks they will just [play with your knee.
4.wish you all the best te5kttak@yahoo.com
Dec 22, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL reconstruction and meniscus repair
by: Dinesh Pullat

I hear all of you and it's comforting. I had surgery 10 weeks back - ACL and both menisci repair.
I got upto 88 on flexion in 7 weeks, but then on it's been 2-3 deg each week. Currently, it's at 94 in the 11th week. Extension is at 0. I have no pain in the knee at all, just the frustration of not getting more flexion each day. The area that hurts is right at the back of the knee towards the calf - more like a nerve constriction, which ceases once I do the wall slide exercise. This works best for me. I walk each day for 20 min. and do PT twice a week with my home exercise set 3 times/day. I don't feel any pain in the knee nor do I have any major swelling. But with some tough scar tissue build up, it's really painful to push on the flexion. I'm hoping this is normal and I can soon get to 110-120 in 2-3 weeks.
Dec 28, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Post 5 month ACL Surgery
by: Anonymous

Male, 27 years old, "Very Active" Doing well.. Got full movement back.. Running two miles every couple of days!!
Dec 30, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL Surgery 3 Weeks Post Op
by: Anonymous

I had ACL surgery using a cadaver ligament and meniscus repair 3 weeks ago. I have been going to PT 3 times a week and I'm at a 125 degree bend with good extension. I have no pain just alittle stiff when I need to bend my knee. I'm still in the post op brace in lock mode. My knee still seems to be pretty swollen. I ice it as much as possible when I'm home and try to keep it elevated. Is anyone experiencing the same problem? Any suggestions on getting the swelling down?
Jan 09, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		patellar tendon graft
by: drew Oidtman

I tore both my acl and calf muscle in the beginning of October. I had surgery about 2 weeks back and everthing seems to be going great. I am down to 0 degrees extension and up to 115 degrees flexion. My quad muscle has been strengthened alot since the surgery but i still cannot walk without crutches. I was wondering if anyone had the same problems? I also have a rather large ball behind my knee and i am hoping that the ball is my calf muscle
Jan 12, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Tips for achieving knee extension?
by: Anonymous

I'm almost 4 weeks post op ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendons and a menisectomy (torn medial meniscus). Quite interested to see all the comments about gaining flexion...I'm at about 110-115degrees but I am struggling with extension. The movement is there and can be achieved passively- when I am relaxed and the physio aids but I cannot get my leg straight and still have lag. Does anyone have some good advice on how to achieve leg extension? I've been doing all the pt exercises and cycling everyday but very keen to gain full active range of movement.

One of the posts above about feeling the hammies pull, if you've had the hamstring graft this is quite normal for the first 6 weeks...it's just scar tissue releasing so you have to be a bit careful. Keeping the leg bent when tying shoes bending over etc helps.
Jan 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		10 days post-op. THANK YOU!
by: JP

I just wanted to say thank you to whoever started this site and also to whoever said they could not sleep through the night. My old lady thinks I just don't want to be up there to deal w/ the kids waking up, but there is just no way to explain that you wake up (in a night tremor might I add) at 1am and just lay there for hours! JP
Jan 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Rough surgery/ almost 4 weeks post op
by: Anonymous

I had my second ACL reconstruction with miniscus removal on my left leg on December 30, 2009. I had a very difficult surgery. The doc could not remove my original screws that were placed 15 years ago so he had to drill new tunnels next to the old ones. He opened my knee all the way up, like a full knee replacement. He then tried to get a good hold with the femur screw and ended up popping it all the way through my femur and lodging the screw in the back of my knee. It should dissolve in 6 months and we are hoping it will not give me any problems until then. I spent 3 days in the hospital instead of being outpatient. I am able to straighten to almost 0, but bending is a little harder I'm about 95 degrees now. I do water therapy 3 times a week in a swimex pool for an hour and then I do an hour on an e stem to help with circulation, swelling and the hole in my Femur. I am still on crutches and I am getting extremely frustrated with my quad strength. I do my exercises every single day until the muscle is fatigued, but I just don't seem to be getting stronger. I can take a few steps without the crutches, but not many. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to increase the quad strength? The pool just doesn't seem to be making it stronger. The pool helps with range of motion, but I need the quad to get strong so I can walk with just the brace. I live in Jackson WY and right now it is dumping snow and having to use crutches is terrifying when it is so slippery.
Jan 30, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Patience; Thanks
by: Richard in So CA

At 6 wks after ACL reconstruction (cadaver tendon) and cartilage/meniscus clean-up (second), I read all your comments and have great sympathy and . . . more patience now. I'm male, 52, healthy and active, anxious/unknowing about how long before I can return to demanding outdoor fun. You all helped me greatly and I thank you. Seems great benefit comes with patience and listening to our knees (swelling, warm to the touch, pain). The impatience, eagerness creates traps. Be careful to keep the steps backward to a minimum, lest we create problems on top of the rehab we already have in front of us (e.g., tendonitis, fluid/scar build-up).
The constant motion machine immediately after surgery (to just 40 degrees at start) and bike riding, started about week 4, seem the smartest things I did, besides trying to follow strictly the instruction from doctor and phys therapist.
I have significant pain in back/sides of knee and have to get the swelling down much as I can. I go a little backwards seems every time I try one of the newly assigned challenging exercises (last one balancing on new knee while bending forward).
Patience! Onward slowly but surely in hopes to be climbing, jumping, running, everything again better than ever. Right now, I just want to be able to walk down hill! Patience.
Jan 30, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		8 Weeks Post Op
by: Anonymous

I'm 8 weeks post op from ACL reconstruction using a cadaver ligament and meniscus repair. I have no pain and have full range of motion. Swelling is pretty much down. However, my doctor still has me in the post op brace in lock mode except when I'm at therapy. I go to therapy 3 days a week. My therapist has me cycling,walking on the treadmill at a pretty good incline and doing all kinds of strenthening exercises. My muscles are getting stronger but it seems like the brace is keeping me from advancing any further. Based on other comments that I have read, it seems like most people are out of the brace by 8 weeks. It seems like my doctor is being alittle cautious. I should mention that this is the second time that I have had ACL reconstruction on the same knee. I was 18 when I had my 1st surgery and I'm now 38. My 1st ACL reconstruction was done using one of my own tendons but it failed about 4 years after I had the surgery do to a slip in the snow. Waited all these years to have it fixed now because was locking up on me more frequently. I was just wondering if anyone had any comments about being in the brace so long?
Jan 31, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		8 Wks in Locking Brace
by: RCA

To 8 Weeks Post Op in the locking brace, I was into flexible brace at four weeks and doc says I'll be wearing brace for several months to avoid re-injury. I believe he's balancing how-much-I- can-be-trusted-to-not-re-injure with the-brace-is-not-absolutely-necessary. Maybe your doc has concern you'll push the limit and re-injure without the brace. I'd ask about going into the flexible brace at a minimum cause the locking brace is certainly taking a toll on the rest of your body, including your gait. Be patient.
Feb 03, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		book recommendations on internal of the knee?
by: Anonymous

I'm at 8 weeks post op, ACL reconstruction using my hamstring and a partial menisectomy (I'm 34 years old). I have 0 to about 135 flexion and can walk and do my PT exercises fine. I am still limping though which is frustrating. Soon after exercises or some light swimming my knee feels good and I can walk without a limp. But sitting in front of the computer or driving for a while the knee gets stiff/uncomfortable and I'm limping. I've been told to be patient - which I'm doing. Reading other stories makes me feel lucky my surgery went ok.

Does anyone have websites or good book recommendations? I'd like to read up about all the muscles/ligaments in my knee and how they work. Books on ACL rehab exercises would be nice also. My PT place is ok but I generally spend only 15 mins with the actual therapist and the rest of the time just doing my routine exercises with an aide.

I don't plan to go crazy with all sorts of new exercises I read up about - but it would help to be informed so I don't inadvertently push the knee too much and also feel like I'm doing all that I can to get back to normal.
Feb 03, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Post ACL
by: Anonymous

I'm at 5 months post op and still limping. I'm at 137 and 0 but I can't keep a 0 for long. My doc said they "maybe did the graft too tight". I had a ACL, MCL and both meniscus discs repaired. I was at 17 extention and 80 flextion before surgery so I was really bad. I'm still doing 5 hours of therapy a week. I'm getting very discouraged. I feel good when my knee is warm and I don't limp, but like you said.. sitting at a desk all day is torture when I get up. Anyone have good advise for us?
Feb 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		12 Days Post ACL (allograft) and Meniscus Repair
by: ACL/Meniscus Guy

First and foremost, this is a great site. I am a 30 year old male, 12 days post-ACL reconstruction (allograft) / meniscus repair. I took my first week off of work and returned to work on Day 7. I keep my leg elevated while at my desk, but not above my heart. It is parallel to the ground.

I have a question about exercises. I am in an full immobilizer brace and was told I'd be in this brace for 6 weeks. Both my surgeon and PT told me to do only ankle pumps, straight leg raises, and leg extensions for the first 2 weeks. Is this odd for my recovery? I have been reading around and most people are doing flexion exercises within the first week or so. Will my limited exercise during the first 2 weeks lead to scarring and limited flexion? Extension seems to be okay, I am around 0.

I am partial weight bearing, but cannot walk or limp around. I was told to expect to be on crutches for 6 weeks.

I injured my knee playing hoops. Pre-injury I was in good shape and played bball, football and softball, boxed and snowboarded.

BTW, the pain is unbearable at times. Cryocuff (the brand I have is Vitalwear) definitely helps out at night. Was off the vicodin on Day 5, so I could return to work. IB 600 mg is alright, but trying to learn to live with the pain.

Good luck to you all in your recoveries!
Feb 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		12 Days Post ACL
by: Anonymous

To ACL/Meniscus Guy. I am a 38 year old female that is 9 weeks post ACL (allograft) and meniscus repair and was just able to stop using the brace at 8 weeks. I started bending my knee the day after surgery and started putting full weight on it within 2 days. I was doing the same exercises as you for the first week, however, by the second week my PT had me on the exercise bike. I found that the sooner you can start bending your knee the better your flexibility becomes. I to thought that I was behind schedule after reading all the comments. Most people were out of their brace within 4 to 6 weeks. Of course everyone is different and every doctor does things differently, so listen to your doctor and PT. I think my doctor was just playing it safe since this was the 2nd time that I had ACL reconstruction on the same knee. Unlike you, I never had any pain and didn't need to take any pain killers. I just took Motrin to keep the swelling down and iced it a lot. Be patient and hang in there.
Feb 13, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL (patellar graft)
by: Anonymous

2 weeks out ACL i have had absolutly no pain in the knee after the surgery and not many setbacks. i am with one crutch and i am not really wearing the brace unless i am out of the house(should i be wearing due to the extention). i am at 125/0 for bend/extention. i have found that if the knee is elevated it is very calm and does not hurt and when i am up moving that it gets very stiff and sore.

everyone on the site seem to have problems with the extention and that scares me cause i have not been wearing the brace. is it a problem to loss exention after to get it? last i would like to thank whom ever started this page cause it was exactly what i was looking for.

thank you to all and good luck
Feb 16, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		medecin b4 surgery
by: Anonymous

hey
so im getting surgery in less than a month, I tore my acl, and meniscus. I am not worried about the surgery, but the pre-op stuff, and what they give you to relax you? Also like what things do they stick into you, like a tube or needle or what? Your help is much appreciated. Thanks,
Comeback kid
Feb 18, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Torn ACL, Surgery in 5 Weeks
by: Sanjeev Jatain

Thanks for all of you to contribute your experiences. I torn my Right ACL while skiing in Tahoe. Today I'm able to walk and also started some exercises as per my PT. My surgery is scheduled in 5 weeks but I started muscle strengthening exercises so that post surgery I've less down-time. Please advise if this is a good idea or should I wait for the surgery and then start the re-hab.
Feb 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Second time's a charm
by: E

Hello everyone, I am a 26 year old Female 13 weeks post op. Unfortunately I'm getting good at rehab! I tore my right ACL/med meniscus nine years ago and then repeated the injury in my left knee in Oct '09. Although both ACL's were reconstructed with a patellar tendon graft and both menisci were repaired (rather than simply cleaned/shaved down) both surgeries/rehab protocols were completely different.

With surgery 1, my Dr. had me in PT the next morning and forced me to reach 90 degrees of flexion. I was at 120 within a week or so, but had problems with extension for the first couple months and continuously had to endure prone hangs with weights. However, I was young and very eager to return to sports. I worked very hard at PT and at home to be released to full activity by 6 months.

With surgery 2 I was locked at 0 degrees for the first week and unlocked to 70 degrees for the following month (though it took the whole month to reach that 70). My extension was great and I reached -5 within the first month. Currently, I'm at 150/-5 but have difficulty with balance and medial pain.

I have no desire to return to soccer this second time around (as it was also the cause of my first injury as well) and so some of the intensity for a speedy rehabiliation is somewhat diminished. But I'm still working hard and look forward to running again! One of the most important things during a successful rehabilitation is a good attitude and optimism (and do what your Dr. and PT tell you!) Good luck :)

Feb 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL Tear/Lateral Meniscus Tear/ MCL Tear
by: thecampuslegend

I suffered the "terrible triad" injury on November 17, 2009. The ortho surgeon recommended 5 weeks of allowing the body to scar over the MCL and reduce inflammation. However, I reinjured my knee when I went to a Phoenix Suns game and jumped up for a t-shirt without my brace (smart, i know, right?)This caused the knee to re-inflame so I had to push back my surgery until Jan. 7th, 2010.

I will start of by saying that I am a 23 year old male that has always been active and am well conditioned. I play basketball, volleyball, football, etc on a weekly basis. During the time between my injury and surgery date, I did A LOT of PT. It was tough to manage into my schedule, but I'm really happy that I did it. I did PT 2 to 3 times a week and went at it with a pretty high intensity. Even outside of PT, I would ice my knee for a minimum of 4-5 hours per day, kept it elevated for 8 to 10 hours (no matter where I was) and would do strengthening exercises with the stretchy band they give you whenever I was sitting down. Full disclosure, I am a medical student, which means I am on my butt for 12 hours a day studying so it was easy for me to keep my knee iced and elevated. For all of you that have to work, I know you have it a little bit tougher.

Anyways, it is true, everyone progresses at their own speed, but you have to be really diligent with caring for yourself. PRE-op strength and health is just as important and POST-op health. If you haven't done any PT before your surgery, you are already behind the 8 ball.

One day after my surgery, which was a patellar graft, I was able to walk without crutches, albeit not very well, but still. I was told NOT to take my anti inflammatory medication so that my body could accept and heal appropriately. I know, it's a rather different view, but it worked for me. I was able to get full flexion and extension in my knee within 4 weeks of surgery. There is currently no swelling and I started jogging on the treadmill today.

My regimen consisted of PT 3 times a week for the first four weeks, riding the cycle (first 3 weeks, doing the elliptical ( week 4 and 5) and treadmill (today). I usually do no more than a mile on each equipment. And if you feel pain, that means stop, you are pushing yourself too hard.

I wore my brace for the first 2 weeks, but I can't really do what I need to do with it on, so I haven't worn in in the past 4 weeks (unless it rains). Know your limits, know your enviornment, and do not compare your progress to that of others for the sole reason that everyone has a laundry list of variable that can change the outcome. Recovery depends a lot on the skill of the surgeon, but also on whether or not you have the motivation to push yourself every single day. I'm not saying do PT every day, but even doing something as simple of 15 minutes of quad contractions when you are sitting will greatly improve your progress.

Sorry for the essay, but I'm really passionate about injuries like this.

Mar 03, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL- 9 weeks post-op
by: Anonymous

9 weeks post-op today. Finally decided to see what I could find about how others are doing and this sight did make me feel much better. Extremely frustrated with progress. Cadaver ligament and meniscus repair on right knee. 44 year old female. I was told I could have full weight bearing right after surgery which surprised me. Did anyone else experience this? I am at 125 however I have been for about 2 weeks. Therapy 2x a week though next week he says maybe we should cut down to once per week. I just want to be able to walk my dog without the fear of falling. Still limp and feel as though it is just not strong enough. Spring is almost here and this was a very long winter. Thanks for sharing everyone. I feel a little better now that I know I am not the only one!
Mar 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ACL-12 weeks post op
by: Anonymous

To ACL-9 weeks post op. I am a 38 year old female who is 12 weeks post op with the same surgery using a cadaver ligament and meniscus repair on my right knee. Actually this is the 2nd time that I had the same surgery. My 1st surgery was 20 years ago using my own tendon to repair the ligament, but unfortunately my ligament stretched when I slipped in the snow about 15 years ago. I finally decided to have the surgery again after my knee was progressively getting worse. I was able to bare full weight within three days after surgery. However, I have been going to therapy 3 times a week since the surgery and just got released to a maintenance program which I will be doing on my own. I pretty much had full range of motion within 2-3 weeks. I believe going to therapy 3 days a week and doing the exercises at home allowed me to gain my full range of motion pretty quickly. I still limp sometimes when my knee gets sore or stiffens up. I just recently started wearing shoes with a small heal but taking it very easy. Just keep working at it and you should be good to go by summer.
Mar 10, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		acl reconstruction/miniscus repair
by: Anonymous

Its been six weeks since my acl surgery and miniscus repair using hamstring tendon. I stopped using the brace at week two and by week three stopped using crutches. I have full flexion and bending my knee is not a problem. Pt is a HUGE part of your recovery. You must stick to it as ordered by the therapist. I am a very active 37 year old women. This has to be one of the toughest things I have gone through physically and mentally. I have no problem with the recumbent bike. It seems the more i bike the better I feel. The most frustrating part so far are stairs and walking without a limp. I go to pt twice a week and progressing very slowly with those two things but as I am told by my therapists PATIENTS.I will be fitted for an acl brace for work. As my doctor thinks i will over do it. All I can say is stay true to pt. Do what they say..and remember to ICE frequently.

Click here to add your own comments

Newsletter

The Athletic Trainer's Corner Signup for your free copy of Flexibility Solutions!