How Long Does It Take To Recover?
After ACL reconstruction surgery, it takes a lot of time to regain full recovery. Athletes are usually sidelined for about 6 to 8 months before getting back to sporting activities. During this period, they undergo a rehabilitation process where they are trained physically till the knee is fully healed. This process of recovery requires the help of a physical therapist. [6]
Immediately after surgery, patients are not able to walk properly and therefore require the use of crutches. Most patients stay on crutches for a week or two while others stay longer than that. Rehabilitation is needed here to help control the pain and recover the movement of the knee.
After about two months, the pain is reduced and the patients can now walk without crutches. The therapist then further help to increase the motion of the joint as well as the muscles around the joint. Physical activities like jogging or cycling are required to help the knee regain its strength. This can take several months.
After several months of physical therapy, the patient will be declared fit if the knee regains its full strength and range of motion. The patient has to be monitored by the therapist and surgeon to ensure that the recovery is going well. Problems with recovery might affect the physical level of the patient.