ACL Surgery Education
FAQs
Is there anything I can do prior to surgery?
Research has shown that pre-operative physical therapy helps restore normal range of motion, quadriceps strength, and normalize walking mechanics prior to surgery. It has been shown to improve a successful return to sport and patient reported outcomes compared to those that did not complete pre-operative therapy (Arthroscopy, Sports Medicine, and Rehabilitation, Vol4, No1 (January), 2022: pp e65-e69). Your surgeon may order this, or you can request it.
What is my recovery timeline?
While every person and surgery is different, most patients who are recovering from an ACL reconstruction have returned to sport in 9-12 months. Meniscal involvement or multi-ligament reconstructions may extend this timeline. Ultimate return to sport is determined by evidence-based data provided by your physical therapist and surgeon.
When can I return to driving?
Patients usually start driving once they are off all pain medications and are cleared by their physical therapist or surgeon. A typical range is 2-4 weeks. This may be extended due to weight-bearing restrictions and depending on if your surgery is on your right or left leg.
When can I return to school?
Typically, students will return to school between 3-7 days after surgery. It is best to contact your school ahead of time to coordinate any necessary accommodations.
When can I return to work?
Return to work is highly variable based on your physical job requirements. Sedentary workers can usually return between 3-7 days after surgery. For individuals with more physically demanding jobs, they will need to consult with their surgeon and physical therapist.
Return to Sport Continuum
Pre-Op
- Strength testing
- Full extension
- Straight Leg raise with no extensor lag
- Minimal to no swelling
Protection and Healing: 0-6 Weeks
- Full Range of Motion
- Walk with near normal gait mechanics
- Improve quadriceps control
- Return to school/work (modify if necessary)
Building Strength and Stability: 6-12 Weeks
- Return to normal function with daily activities at home
- No pain or gait abnormalities
- Building strength with a progressive gym program
- Pass Tier 1 of FAST testing at 12-16 weeks
Running, Agility, and Jumping: 12-20+ Weeks
- line jogging
- Begin gentle change of direction and agility
- techniques without pain
- Consistent completion of an independent strengthening program
- Pass Tier 2 of FAST testing
Cutting and Preparation for Return to Sport Activities: 6-12 Months
- Return to sport progression under the guidance of a physical therapist
- Begin strength and performance program with OrthoNebraska coaches
- Coordination with coaches and athletic training staff for safe return to modified practice
- Pass Tier 3 testing battery for full return to sport to receive clearance from physical therapist and surgeon
Locations
Athletic Performance & Therapy Center at Millard
(402) 609-1758
13809 Industrial Road
Omaha, NE 68137
Athletic Performance & Therapy Center at Papillion
(402) 609-1759
310 E Gold Coast Rd #113
Papillion, NE 68046
Recommended Home NMES Units
ACL Preop Home Exercise Program, Phase I
ACL Preop Home Exercise Program, Phase II
Click to watch the below videos, which demonstrate the correct techniques for daily activities following surgery. We recommend watching these:
- In advance of your surgery, for general awareness of what’s to come.
- When first attempting these tasks on your own at home after surgery, so you can follow the instructions step-by-step.
