Question - Lateral Release (after ACL reconstruction)

by Chris
(Windsor, Ontario, Canada)

I had an ACL reconstruction on Jan 31,2008 and after 4 weeks my knee cap dislocated. On March 31, 2008 the surgeon did a lateral release on the same knee to solve this problem. I had the same problem with my right knee in 1994 and a lateral release was done without any problems.

I have been going to therapy every day and as of today(3 months later) my knee still has a large bulge on the outside and it is swollen.

What is the next step? Is this normal?

I am 43 years old and active in sports in particular ice hockey and golf. Will an MRI assist in the next course of treatment? Please help. My surgeon says it will take more time and this is not normal from his experience.

Thanks,

Chris

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Question - Lateral Release (after ACL reconstruction)

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Jul 01, 2008
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An MRI may help
by: Bart - SII

Swelling is common for an extended period of time after a lateral release - however, 3 months is a little too long. Are you having a lot of pain with the knee, or just swelling?

An MRI may help to determine if there is some other type of intra-articular pathology - however, it may have mixed results because of the ACL graft and the fact that it can give abnormal signals.

What has your therapy focused on? Have you done much along the lines of hip strengthening, or primarily focused on the quad and VMO?

I would talk to your therapist about hip/low back mobility, core and hip strengthening, as well as any biomechanical problems at your feet. All of these things can play a role in knee stability and proper function.

Hope this helps - comment back if you have other questions.