An injury that can change your life is tearing your ACL (anterior cruciate ligament). The road to rehabilitation is difficult, regardless of whether you’re an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or just someone who suffered a bad accident. Although ACL surgery is frequently advised, there are a lot of things I wish I had understood before having the procedure done. If you are thinking about having your ACL repaired, these ten shocking truths will help you better prepare for what’s to come.
1. Surgery Is Not Always the First Option
Although it’s not always the case, many people think that ACL surgery is the only option for recovery. Strength training and organized physiotherapy can sometimes help people regain knee function. Non-surgical rehabilitation may be a viable alternative if you do not participate in high-impact activities or have a partial tear. Making the best decision for yourself might be aided by speaking with a skilled physiotherapist.
2. Recovery Takes Longer Than You Think
A lot of individuals believe that things will return to normal in a few months. In actuality, recovering from an ACL injury might take anywhere from nine months to a year, or even longer. You may begin walking in a few weeks, but it will take a lot of rehabilitation to resume sports or other high-intensity activities. The secret is patience!
3. The First Few Weeks Are the Hardest
After surgery, the first several days are difficult. Pain, swelling, and trouble moving your leg can make everyday tasks seem impossible. The first two weeks are especially difficult since your knee will be stiff and it may hurt to do simple things like climb stairs or use the restroom. During this time, having a solid support network at home is essential.
4. Physiotherapy Is More Important Than the Surgery Itself
Many individuals believe that surgery is the answer, but physical therapy is where the true healing occurs. Restoring knee strength, flexibility, and balance is facilitated by a carefully thought-out rehabilitation program. Weak muscles, poor movement, and even re-injury might result from skipping or postponing physiotherapy. Follow your physiotherapy regimen regularly and begin as soon as it is advised.
5. You Will Experience Muscle Loss and Weakness
The rate at which your muscles decrease following ACL surgery is one of the biggest surprises. Because of muscular atrophy, the operated limb will feel weaker and look smaller in a few weeks. Although developing such muscles requires time and regular work through specific exercises, this is perfectly normal.
6. Knee Pain and Stiffness Can Last for Months
Knee stiffness and occasional discomfort can last for months even after successful surgery. Some people may have trouble fully bending and extending their knees, while others may hear clicking sounds in their knees. Frequent strengthening, icing, and stretching activities aid in resolving these problems.
7. Returning to Sports Requires Psychological Strength
Many people focus only on physical recovery, but mental recovery is just as important. Fear of re-injury is common, and some people hesitate to put full weight on the operated leg. Confidence-building exercises, gradual exposure to sports movements, and psychological support can help in overcoming this fear.
8. Your Graft Choice Matters
There are different types of ACL grafts used in surgery:
- Autograft: Uses your own tissue (like hamstring or patellar tendon)
- Allograft: Uses a donor’s tissue
- Synthetic graft: Uses artificial materials (less common)
Each has its pros and cons, affecting healing time, strength, and risk of complications. Discussing this with your surgeon helps in making an informed decision.
9. You May Experience Movement Issues in the Other Leg
An unexpected side effect of ACL surgery is that your unaffected leg might start developing problems. This happens because you put extra pressure on the healthy leg while protecting the operated one. Sometimes, hip, ankle, or lower back pain also develops due to changes in walking patterns. Strengthening both legs evenly can help avoid these problems.
10. Nutrition and Hydration Play a Big Role in Recovery
Eating the right foods speeds up healing. A diet rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins (especially Vitamin C, D, and calcium) helps in tissue repair and bone strength. Staying hydrated reduces inflammation and promotes better circulation, which is essential for faster recovery.
Final Thoughts
ACL surgery is a major step, and knowing these facts beforehand can make a huge difference in your recovery journey. The process is long and requires patience, discipline, and a lot of effort. Whether you are an athlete or someone who just wants to regain normal knee function, understanding these aspects will help you stay prepared and motivated.
If you or someone you know is considering ACL surgery, share this blog with them! Awareness is the first step towards a smooth recovery. Stay strong, stay consistent, and trust the process!
To hear from our own patient about her ACL journey, kindly watch this video!
Dr. Pradyot Gokhale (PT)
Rehab Station Pune
