Is Physical Therapy Necessary?
Over 100,000 anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions are performed annually in the United States. As one of the most common procedures in the country, reconstruction helps many patients get back to daily life. During the operation, surgeons repair the band of muscles connecting the ligament to the knee. Without a functioning ACL, the leg cannot stabilize the knee joint, limiting mobility. Surgery helps patients get back to functional, but physical therapy (PT) after the procedure is crucial to restoring full range of motion.
Recovering quickly with PT
While physical therapy is not a strict requirement, research suggests consistent movement can make a difference in joint recovery. Comparative studies have found that patients who completed physical therapy regained movement within 34 weeks, as opposed to 42 weeks for patients who did not complete physical therapy. To recover movement after surgery, patients should slowly introduce low-stress activities over several months.
Consistency is vital
Directly after surgery, patients will be asked to begin lifting the legs without assistance to start developing strength. Within 2-3 weeks, most patients will be walking without crutches. Some data suggest that starting physical therapy within 1-2 weeks of surgery can maximize healing. Supplement straight leg raises with stationary cardiovascular activities like the stationary bike. Gentle cardio strengthens the leg muscles while keeping stress off the quadriceps, shortening the recovery process.
Getting mobile, staying mobile
To maximize the likelihood of a quick recovery, experts suggest setting a realistic goal. Protecting the ACL graft should be top of mind going into each session. While total range of motion may not be immediately possible, patients can expect to regain 140 degrees of movement within the first several months. Swimming or running is not recommended for at least 6 months after surgery to lower the possibility of reinjuring the joint.
Making post-op pop
The first 8 weeks after surgery is a crucial window to making a full recovery. Movement goals will focus on weight-bearing movements such as maintaining a leg extension and walking unassisted. After patients can walk easily, work moves toward strengthening the muscles and expanding the joint’s range of motion.
Making knee surgery easy
By following a robust plan focusing on expanding the range of motion and protecting the new joint, many patients can expedite the recovery process. While surgery is never a walk in the park, physical therapy can help patients return to walking in the park faster than ever.
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“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
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“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
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“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
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“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
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“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
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