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Comments

Comments for ACL surgery and recovery

Excerpt: Details on my ACL surgery and recovery. Includes photos! Read the whole article…

Bill Flitter
November 12, 2004 12:37 PM

That's sick! Get well soon.

Annette
November 12, 2004 3:45 PM

Further to my 'I'm feeling much better about my up and coming operation' comments on the other page, I'm now trembling again!! Photos.. not always a good idea to look huh? Just out of interest/to compare. I'm booked into hospital for 3 nights and have been 'forced' to take 4 weeks off work (albeit my job does involve more walking around than normal). The speed of your recovery and getting back to normal really is inspiring! Annette (again).

Richard Harris
November 13, 2004 2:49 AM

I came to your site to check some MT stuff, only to discover you've had very much the same operation as me - I had my left ACL rebuilt after a skiing accident, using my hamstring to provide the graft. That was 12 years ago and I'm still cycling, running and powder skiing without a brace. The prognosis is good :-) All the best with the rehab! Richard

Sasha Bratic
November 17, 2004 10:51 AM

I tore up my ligaments playing soccer and I had my ACL surgery on June 8. I started running (not very fast) 4 month after surgery and I hope that in December I can start playing soccer again. My surgeon told me I can ski in January but first season I have to use brace. My experience is not bad at all, after surgery I had pain only first two nights and I had to take two pain killers. Rehabilitation is slow but the more you work with you leg, more you can do every day, and that push you further. Today is five moths and nine days since my surgery. I am running faster but still afraid to go full speed. I still feel that my knee is not fully recover but I feel too that it is getting there. Try to go to gym at least 4 times a week, and be persistent, and everything should go back to normal.

Jenny
November 17, 2004 3:52 PM

I had my acl surgery on Oct 28/04. I thought my knee was feeling better although now it seems to be getting worse. My first physio session is tomorrow and I'm hoping that doing physio 2 to 3 times a week will help me to a speedy recovery. I still can't bend or straighten my leg and it's very hard these days trying to lift and carry around my 5 month old son who is starting to get heavier and heavier as the days go by. My back is taking a real beating. I know that I have a long road of rehab ahead of me and as for playing soccer again, I will be thinking long and hard about it. I don't ever want to go through this ever again. Jennifer Toronto, CAN

Alex A
November 17, 2004 11:08 PM

I torn both my ACL and MCL 6 weeks ago(basketball). The doc told me i had to wait for the MCL to heal before they could even think about surgery on the ACL. Mean while i have been going to pt once a week. I have my follow w/ the doc next week. Any idea when I will actually go into surgery? It's pretty frustrating getting back to where i have no pain, just knowing that it's going to revert back to where it was before. How long were you out of work? (i have an office job) The worst part is not knowing when everything will transpire.

Rick
November 19, 2004 10:51 PM

I had Allograft on my left knee Nov. 5 I felt very good about this as my doctor also repaired my torn meniscus same knee and I was up and about the day of surgery. Same this time around. No pain for the most part and walking with the brace on. Day 2 I get a fever that goes to 101 and then back down. Day 3 fever though now neve higher than 100 and down to 97.7 Day four the same and into doctors office to draw out fluid for a sample to test for bacteria. All test negative. It is now 2 weeks since surgery the swelling seems to be going down but I still have this fever, Though still never going higher than 100 I am starting to wonder if the graft is failing. Has anyone ever had an experience with this? or read about this anywhere? Good luck to all

Desiree G
November 21, 2004 5:33 PM

I got surgery on my ACL three weeks and four days ago. It was very successful. I can put full pressure on it, walk straight, and fully extend my leg. I am having a very fast recovery and i feel great. My PT is moving me right along and i am very anxious to play basketball again. My team opened up their season this weekend and watching them play made me want to work harder to recover faster. It's very hard but overall i am kind of glad that it's happened to me. I never realized how important basketball and my health really were to me. I took my first jumpshot in four months the other day...I know it was a dangerous thing to do but i just could not help myself. I feel like i'll be ready to go again in January.

Ken Torreggiani
November 22, 2004 10:49 AM

I tore my ACL in a Taekwondo Black Belt test. My Doc wants to do surgery and use Donor tissue. He said it is common and 1 in a million chance of Hepititas. He says they have done hundreds of these and very sucessful. I will be on my feet in a week. Any suggestions.

Brian Preston
November 22, 2004 11:29 AM

I'm 36 and I ruptured my ACL June BMX racing. I had a petallar tendon used to reconstruct the ACL. I'm currently in week 12 after the surgery. I'm still going to physical therapy, which might end in a few weeks. I also developed tendonitis in the patella. From what I'm told this is common in an petallar tendon for this type of surgery. They use 1/3 of the tendon and a piece of bone from the knee cap, (patella) and the tibial plateu. My Doc said he prefered doing it this way and prefered using my own tissue instead of a cadaver. There isn't any rejection factor if you use your own tissue. Anyway, I'm looking froward to BMXing and Mountian Biking again in a few more months.

sharon b
November 24, 2004 8:53 PM

I had ACL surgery on Nov. 3, 2004 and I'm a teacher. Any comments as to when I could possibly go back to work? Any other teachers have this same surgery. My problem is that my classroom is about 1/2 mile from the office and all of the walking with my children.

Francisco Silva
November 25, 2004 12:58 PM

I had surgery done on September 20, 2004. i am only 16 years old and i have been attending phisical therapy for two months now. i tore my acl and the cartilage on my left knee playing soccer. My recovery has been quick but i still cant run or dont have the strength to jump on one foot. i still feel pain on my knee and i am very frustrated because my cant run properly and i fear i wont be able to play lacrosse in college. i hope i recover quikly and to be able to play lacrosse in the begining of the new year.

Bhushan G
November 29, 2004 7:38 PM

Hello, I fell and sprained a ligament playing basketball, and few weeks later. As it was heeling, a few weeks later (Aug 5 '04) I was at the coast, and fell and tore my ACL and Meniscus. ACL tear was bad, so was the menisus, but not so bad as the ACL. I went to the doctor and he drained out the blood out of the knee, and then I did P.T for 3 months. No improvement. So, they did a surgery on Nov 4 '04. He put the meniscus back together and reconstucted the ACL by using a hamstring, from the back of my thigh. I was on my major painkillers for a week or 10 days. So, I didnt acutally feel that much pain. Most of the time I was asleep. Now its been 3 1/2 weeks. I've been walking without crutches, but with the brace on, and it is locked out completely. I can unlock the brace during the day to 90 degrees. I cant bend my knee more than that because of the Mensical repair. It hurts when I try to bend it more than 80 degrees. Its normal, because I had 6 portals (holes) 3 for the first surgery 3 for the other. So, they said, that there was a scar tissue formed and it does hurt a little, and you will hear a pop whenever u try to bend it. This brace is not very comfortable, but you HAVE to use it. If not you will lose few degrees from your knee. So MAKE SURE you lock it, be4 you go to bed and you can unlock it when you feel like you are stabe while you are walking. The brace will be taken of in 6 weeks (3 more weeks to go :( ). Then I will be transferred into another brace. Its a slow healing process for me, because I had 2 surgeries. P.T is helping me very much. I cant play basketball again for 6 months. Im just waiting patiently. Hopefully I get healed soon. :)

Jenna
November 30, 2004 8:51 AM

I tore my Acl this year rodeoing. 6 months is a long time to not rodeo. I am a junior in high school and I am soooo glad it didnt happen my senior year. Thank you for your story.

Jenn
November 30, 2004 10:12 AM

I tore my ACL in May and was told I needed a reconstruction surgery. I went in for surgery in July and when I woke up found out the doctor did not do the surgery, but just did a ortho instead to clean up the cartilidge in the area. I am still having the same pains that I had prior to surgery, and am having a "loose" knee. I went for a second opionion and was told he wanted to do the reconstruction surgery with a cadavar ligament. I've now lost all this time and have already gone through one surgery. Was wondering if anyone has had experiance like this, or was I the only one to find the dummest doctor on the earth!

Ross Vanden Boogaard
December 1, 2004 2:00 PM

Well i have read all the stories and decided to add mine. I am 16 and a sophomore in high school right now. I also have had acl surgery on my left knee using my petellar tendon on Oct. 23, 2003. The recovery was good and i was back playing some spring baseball and summer baseball and basketball. This year i elected not to play football, but rather to play basketball because basketball is my favorite sport. This last weekend, Nov 26 and Nov 27 our basketball team was in a tournament. I started for our team before i got my surgery and now i was starting again. However, i started the game and played a whole half and in the first minutes of the second half i was going for a ball out of bounds to save it and i planted with my right knee and it shifted and i ended up tearing the acl in my right knee. So now i am scheduled for surgery on the 21st of Dec and am pretty bummed out about it. Hopefully i have better luck in the future because one more torn acl and i am done with sports for good.

Ed Cook
December 3, 2004 3:31 AM

I injured my knee playing football 2 and a half years ago. Having consulted with a physio who referred me to a specialist I underwent an ortho and they cleaned up my cartilage. Spent three months in phys and did exactly the same thing when I returned to sport. This time they did an ortho and told me I had a slight tear to my ACL but with the right phys shouldnt be a problem. After 6 months more phys it was eventually determined that my right knee had a positive pivot twist and a different surgeon reckoned ACL reconstruction would be the best bet. That was in May this year. The inital recovery was a lot like has been mentioned above, and straight line movement, cycling, running is now a doddle. Twisting and turning is the key - in my last consultation with the Doc he decribed the give in my knee as a 1, conveniently my good knee is a zero. The give is such that I am worried that I'll not be able to play sport again but the Doc reckons most people play with a 1. So Jenn, good luck, get the op done asap and you'll be laughing and no you're not the only one with Doc trouble!!!!!

Ed
December 3, 2004 3:33 AM

I injured my knee playing football 2 and a half years ago. Having consulted with a physio who referred me to a specialist I underwent an ortho and they cleaned up my cartilage. Spent three months in phys and did exactly the same thing when I returned to sport. This time they did an ortho and told me I had a slight tear to my ACL but with the right phys shouldnt be a problem. After 6 months more phys it was eventually determined that my right knee had a positive pivot twist and a different surgeon reckoned ACL reconstruction would be the best bet. That was in May this year. The inital recovery was a lot like has been mentioned above, and straight line movement, cycling, running is now a doddle. Twisting and turning is the key - in my last consultation with the Doc he decribed the give in my knee as a 1, conveniently my good knee is a zero. The give is such that I am worried that I'll not be able to play sport again but the Doc reckons most people play with a 1. So Jenn, good luck, get the op done asap and you'll be laughing and no you're not the only one with Doc trouble!!!!!

Meg M
December 3, 2004 2:51 PM

I just had knee surgery on august 16. i am only 13 years old and have had 3 knee surgeries. in may of 2002, when i was 11, i had knee surgery on my right leg because it was 2.5 inches longer than my left. i am a dancer with a preprofessional ballet company and i danced every night for long hours. so about 6 months or so after that surgery, i started dancing again. but my left knee kept on giving out or popping out on me, and let me tell u it was the worst feeling in the world. at first i did nothing about it, so i just waited. but it got worse. it swelled up and i couldnt straighten or bend it all the way. finally, i had a MRI and they found out that i didnt even have an ACL. it wasnt even there and my PCL looked torn (but it was only very thin and stretched) and i had torn cartilage. so november 25, 2002, i had arthoscopic surgery. all they did was fix the cartilage. after a while, i started dancing again, but dancing without an ACL is very difficult, since u turn and jump and its extremely hard on your knees. I had to wear a huge, metal, defiance brace around my knee that would hold my knee in place, so it was pretty difficult dancing with a metal thing around your leg. My ballet teacher didn't like it either, so I couldn't wear it to ballet anymore, all I wore was a little slip around my knee. this didn't support my at all, so my knee shifted and hurt alot. but i still did nothing about it and continued dancing hard on my knees for a few years. finally, once again, i couldn't handle it all. my knee was in very bad pain. So, I had another MRI and they found out that i had torn my meniscus. In august 2004 i had ACL reconstruction. they took my potella tendon and rapped it around my knee, making me my 1st ACL ive ever had. than they repaired my meniscus. it's about 3-4 months later and im doing great in physical therepy. my knee feels better 4 mtnhs after surgery than it did before i had it-i know weird. but ive never walked without my knee even slightly popping out of place. ive never danced without my knee in total pain (a few times i sat out of class because i fell on the floor with my knee in extreme pain) i obviously cant dance yet, but even with just walking or slow jogging, it feels so different and stable! im so glad i had this surgery, i feel like a new person.

L
December 8, 2004 5:03 PM

I tore my acl ((and had a mcl injury and a few other things that still effect me)) while riding a friends moped when i wrecked in late july '04 and got surgery in early sept. i started physical thereapy before surgery because it makes it alot easier after surgery to do physical thereapy. my acl was torn to the point where it wasnt even there and had shredded into a small bundle. i was put out for an additional hour in a half i was told because my femer wasnt shaped right so they reconstructed that. i was extrelmy tired and graugy by the time i had woken up. after surgery i was kinda passed out/sleeping for a good eight more hours before leaving the hospital....not to mention i was EXTREMLY drugged up. they put numbing shots in my leg and told me that they would wear off at about two in the morning..i woke up the next morning to get from the upstairs bedroom to the downstairs bedroom and it took 15 mins and alot of tears for me to make it..i couldnt even lay down without crying, the loratab did help alot though. i hated the feeling of not being able to do things so i forced myself to walk by myself after a few days in bed. i was practically bed-ridden for my sweet sixteen, but my friends threw me a suprise party at my house anyway. im still in physical thereapy two to three times a week and it will be 14 weeks since surgery tomorrow. ive worked really hard and learned how to push myself more. its been a great experience and i wouldnt take back this experience for the world. its taught me so much and although its been tough and painful its been something to look back and laugh about. i am a varsity cheerleader at my highschool which is a huge honor as a sophmore, but with my injury i have been limited as to what i can and cant do. im doing so good though that i went back to stunting a month early jumping and running two weeks early and small tumbling thee months early. i know i still have a long way to go but i feel that im a stonger person because of all this. thanks!

kevin
December 9, 2004 11:26 AM

Well my story is going to be a bit different i think. 2 years ago in my last basketball game of the year as a junior i tore my left ACL. I found a great doctor who did surgery and i told him i had to play football that spring. 4 and a half months later i was practice with the football team and started in our first game of the year as quarterback with no problems in myknee and it was only 5 months after surgery. I played basketball again my senior year and now play college basketball. This past summer in july i tore my ACL in my left KNEE AGAIN and i did a cadaver this time (pattala first time) and its been almost 5 months now and i am already back started to practice with the team again and plan on playing withing the next two weeks. My doctor is great and he said that i would gain nothing if i waited the 6-8 months that most doctors would suggest! So wish me luck i guess! love to hear your responses to this!

kevin katz
December 10, 2004 10:41 AM

i am interested in the comments here. most seem to be posted by young people. i am 51 years old and tore 95% of my acl (by mri results) 11 months ago whilst fighting at karate. i had a little discomfort at the time but now have no pain and no loss of function. i have not been back to karate and wont go skiing. i have walked alot and bicycled without any probelms. i can't make up my mind whether to have the surgery or not. are there any of you who are older and have had acl surgery. any comments? kevin

Alyssa
December 10, 2004 3:07 PM

Hello, I hurt my ACL in november of 2001. I hurt it in gymnastics doing a double twist on floor. At emergency, I had an x-ray. They treated for a torn ligament and torn meniscus on the side of my knee. After about four weeks of wearing a brace that prevented me from bending my leg, the doctor told me that I could go back to physio and training. So I started back, but my knee felt very unstable and it was always popping. It would get really swollen. One day, it really popped. So we went back to the doctor and he told us to schedule me for a MRI. After the results came back he told me that I had destroyed my ACL and that I would need reconstruction surgery. I had no ACL at all. However I was only 12 at the time and he told me I was too young to get the surgery. He wanted to wait until my growth plates were gone. I had to wear a brace for activity. I have had to go for Cybex at least once a week to keep my quads and hamstrings strong. Well, I went back to square one in gymnastics and after 3 years of trying to compete as a national athlete, I found that my knee was unable to hold me even with a custom brace, so I left the sport and started barrel racing. However, my brace got too small so we went back to the doctor and he told us that I was now old enough to get the surgery! I have now ordered my third brace. I will have to wear it for about a year after surgery. I am scheduled to get surgery on December 15, 2004. I hope to be back to barrel racing in high school rodeo by the middle of March, 2005.

Cristina Voskian
December 14, 2004 10:51 AM

HI, I had my surgery on August 4, I torn my left ACL, when I was taching my nice to do long distance jump, but I had pain one year before, when I was playing volley ball. I'm very active, I do Kick boxing, play tennis, voley ball, and swimming. I did my surgery bacuse I want my life back. I was home almost one weeks. They sent me a special machine, to bend my kwee, and I was doing that almost 7 hours a day. The second week I start with my phioterapy and I'm steel doing therapy twice a week, and going to the gym 3 times a week. I feel good, but steel, I'm not playing any sport yet, because I want to be sure, my muscle is strong. My doctor and my phisotherapist are great. By the way, I'm 41 and I love life. If you had your ACL injured, and you love sport, please do the surgery.

Jen S
December 14, 2004 11:56 AM

My experience with knee surgeries has not been pleasant. I have had two already and am preparing to have my third next week. I am actually writing this because I am really nervous and thought this would help release some tension. I first found out I had torn my acl in my first year playing college soccer. During the first week of practice my knee swelled up and I couldn't even bend it, that is when I had to get my first MRI. After my MRI everyone was astonished by the results, my acl had been torn for years and I didn't even know it. During high school I always had minor complications with my knee, but no one ever thought it was anyting serious. Well, I got my first surgery in October of my freshmen year, it was the worst experience of my life. I had never been in so much pain. The night after I was released I had to go back to the hospital and get a shot of morphine in my leg because it hurt so bad. Unfortunately things just kept getting worse, and in the end I found out that the surgery had not even worked. So I was back at square one. Luckily I got a new doctor to perform the second surgery, this surgery just involved cleaning up the last surgery and filling in the holes with new bone. I am now about to get my third surgery and I am deathly afraid. Thanks for taking the time to read my story.

Cristina Voskian
December 14, 2004 2:07 PM

Hi, I had my ACL torn on MArch '04. I did my surgery Aug 04,I had a great doctor, and I'm glad that I did it. I'm very active, I love voleyball, kick boxing, tennis and swimming. I'm doing P.T twice a week and going to the gym 3 times a week. I'm not playing any sport yet, I want to make sure my muscles are strong. I don't want to take chances, I want to be 100 % again. I did cadaver type. The pain wasn't bad at all, and I was home for 2 week. They sent me a machine that helps bend my knee, I was doing that almost 7 hours a day. That help me a lot. If you are active don't think twice juts do it.

Paul
December 14, 2004 3:29 PM

I'm 35 and have surgery scheduled to reconstruct my completely severed left ACL in early January. Possible meniscal tear, also. Like Jen S, my MRI revealed that my ACL has been gone for years. During high school football and baseball and clollege baseball, my knee occasionally popped out on me. I got used to it. Last fall, just a small step in old-guy baseball put me to the ground and I haven't recovered at all. It sounds like a meniscus, but the MRI wasn't conclusive as to that. If I know my knee, it's shot. If Jen S's experience is any indicator, it makes me very concerned that my recovery will be difficult due to the age of the injury. I can walk and run now, just no lateral chicanery! Options are to live with it and play no more sports, or have the reconstruction. I opt for the latter. Anyone else out there who's had my circumstance and done the surgery?

Jack
December 15, 2004 6:02 AM

I've had a bad meniscus for years. My ACL was torn in a car accident in April. After getting my Dr. to appove an MRI, I have sugery scheduled for Feb 1st. Both meniscus and ACL (same procedure as above). I believe is referred to as bptb (bone-Patella tendon-bone. I've linked the site and try to update.

Hayfever
December 15, 2004 3:00 PM

It varies... my dad had surgery on his.. and was back riding bicycles within the month, and up moving around almost immediately after the effects of the anesthesia wore off. My friend's mom had the surgery done at about the same time, and was still hobbeling around with a cane nearly a year later.

Nik
December 16, 2004 9:24 AM

Hi All: I tore my ACL and meniscus on Oct. 9 2004 and had reconstructive surgery on Friday Dec. 12, 2004. My pain was excruciating due to postoperative swelling. The pain is manageable when I’m sitting or lying down with my leg elevated. That said, when I get up to walk a little on my crutches, the pain is almost unbearable. My surgeon informs me that the swelling is causing all this to happen. At day 4 I was re-admitted back to the hospital overnight to help alleviate my pain so that I could sleep. They gave me morphine and painkillers throughout the night, and I still had trouble sleeping. My Dr. says that the knee looks good, but the swelling is more than he usually sees after surgery. It's now 6 days after surgery, and the swelling is still pretty significant. I cannot start PT until this swelling goes down, but I have been doing several exercises on my own at home with lots of pain. Does anyone have suggestions on getting this post op swelling under control? Best regards, Nik

Jessica
December 19, 2004 8:15 PM

I completely tore my ACL and severely sprained my MCL in October of 2003 going up for spike at a volleyball game. No physical contact from any player. But my knee didn't show the classic symptoms of an ACL tear. My doctor would pull on my knee and I was in no pain and that test was supposed to determine whether my ACL was torn. The day after my injury my knee wasn't swollen and my physical therapist told me my ACL was good and strong. My doctor wanted to wait 2 weeks before an MRI to see if it would heal by my next visit he said to waited me to wait another 2 weeks again. Finally my mom and I got sick of the non improvement of my knee and schedule an MRI against his orders. Comes to find out I was walking on a completely torn ACL for a month and my doctors didn't even no it. I had surgery the next day and spent the night in the hospital which was the best decision I ever made. I was on morphine then got on vicodin which made me sick, so for the first week after my surgery I was on ibuprofen for my painkiller. I went through 6 months of rehab at times which was painful. A suggestion for anyone who has this injury is to do exactly what your PT wants you to do in your training. Don't skip session and do whatever extra work you can do with permission by you PT. 8 months later I was catching in softball again but with pain and swelling after games. I wore a brace during volleyball to prevent the injury. Also train when you are not in sports because I haven't been in volleyball for a month and my knee has been hurting a lot because I'm not active as much as I was. If you have any questions you can email me at stick_je_3@hotmail.com. sorry about the long post

steve
December 20, 2004 3:55 PM

for paul, do it mate i was in the same way.i had mine done on dec 1, for the first week you have pain but after that you just enjoy the time off work and go swimming every day.

Annette
December 25, 2004 10:19 AM

Everyone's stories really illustrate how different all the surgical procedures are and of course, how differently we all respond. I had my ACL surgery exactly 4 weeks ago. The graft got stuck in surgery so I've got a rather large scar down to the top of my shin, unlike Adam's nice and neat ones illustrated. I've not had any pain at all really and have been very very lucky, I appreciate this. I was aware of the problems with swelling for PT so I would completely recommend lying on your back for hours and hours and hours for the first 1.5-2 weeks, leg up, dead straight as high as poss with ice/cold things packed around your whole knee for as long as you can bear. It may feel painful to straighten your leg so much, it feels almost forced, but its invaluable to do the full extension from day 1. I was lowering myself onto the floor every 2 hours to do basic physio movements, flexing at the ankles, pressing the back of my knee into the floor and then raising the leg in that dead straight position. I've got weak quads so could only manage 3 leg raises in one session but have got this up to 10 now, holding the pose for a good 10 seconds. Nik in particular and anyone with pain after surgery, I'm thinking of you.. remember mind over matter.. this will help.. be strong and good luck. Oh.. and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

NIKKI
January 1, 2005 10:44 PM

I was playing softball for our school team and slid into third base. I got up and felt my knee wobbling, but I ran home,went walking around thinking it was just a minor thing. I went to the hospital and got out to stretch my legs and my knee popped. I chose to have surgery and I stayed overnight. My knee was stiff and I had barely any muscle tone in my quads. It took about 5 1/2 weeks to be completely off crutches,because my leg was so weak. I played volleyball after 4 months but was still slow and limping. My knee also does weird cracking noises when I straighten it out sometimes. Keep to therapy! Remember that progress doesn't always go at the same speed as others, and I learned that the hard way.

Emily
January 3, 2005 12:28 PM

I had my surgery 2 weeks ago tomorrow and didn't have much pain at all, mostly just stiffness due to swelling. The swelling was pretty intense at first but I've been icing it and exercising it, and it's starting to look like a knee again. My foot swelled up a lot at first, too, and my doctor said that was because the brace restricts circulation. For about four days now I've only been wearing my brace when I go out, and around the house I leave it off. This has helped me improve my mobility a lot and drastically reduced the swelling. I can hobble a little without the crutches if I have to but I'm still using them partial weight-bearing most of the time. I got on an excercise bike 2 days ago and was able to pedal a little, but only excruciatingly slowly. The leg lifts and quad tightening exercises I've been doing have caused a noticable improvement over the last 2 days or so, and I'm planning on trying the bike again tomorrow.

Melissa
January 3, 2005 7:12 PM

I torn my ACL and blew my meniscus up sliding into thrid base. I had the hamstring replacement done, somewhat like Adam. When I woke up from surgery, my back was in tremendous pain along with my pelvic from the femoral block. The doctor had no explaination for why my back hurt and why my right side of my leg was numb. It has been 12 weeks since my surgery and my leg is still numb. Has this type of thing happened to anyone else? I am concerned that my doctor may have done something wrong and is hesitant to say anything. Your comments will help me to decide what I should do.

Lawrence C. Hartung
January 4, 2005 12:24 PM

I had ACL surgery in Jan. of 1989, before the ACL could be repaired I needed Miniscus surgery first. I was 40 years old and injured my left knee by attempting to set a 25 ft. light pole in the ground. When that healed we did the ACL. The procedure was very much like yours, using the Ham String to replace the ligament. When this particular procedure was performed on me by DR. Frank Nichols, Fort Atkinson, WI it was a realitvely new way of repairing the ligament, so I received a lot of attention form a lot of courious Orthopedic Surgeons. My recovery was a lot different than yours. I was in the Hospital for 4 days, I was fitted for a Lenox Hill brace and a few weeks after that and i was on crutches for 6 months, after which I began Physical Therapy that lasted every bit of one year. During which time there was no sports activity at all, and no work. I was very aggressive with the therapy, which was to my benefit. To date the ACL surgery knee is a lot tighter than the other one. I have had no problems with it, other than I do notice that at times the left leg does not seem to lift as high during a walking stride, causing the toe of my shoe to catch on throw rugs etc. But other than that I have a strong knee that has not held me back at all.

Lawrence C. Hartung
January 4, 2005 12:42 PM

I had ACL surgery in Jan. of 1989, before the ACL could be repaired I needed Miniscus surgery first. I was 40 years old and injured my left knee by attempting to set a 25 ft. light pole in the ground. When the Miniscus healed we did the ACL. The procedure was very much like yours, using the Ham String to replace the ligament. When this particular procedure was performed on me by DR. Frank Nichols, Fort Atkinson, WI it was a realitvely new way of repairing the ligament, so I received a lot of attention form a lot of courious Orthopedic Surgeons. My recovery was a lot different than yours. I was in the Hospital for 4 days, in terrible pain, and could not be discharged until I had learned to get around with crutches. I was fitted for a Lenox Hill brace that I wore pretty much continuesly day and night for the first year. Physical Therapy began about 60 days after surgery, and lasted every bit of one year. During which time there was no sports activity at all, and no work. The brace was regulary adjusted by the DR. to allow for more leg straightening as time went on. I was very aggressive with the therapy, which was to my benefit. After being released from the DR. (2 years after) I would be seen and evaluated by him yearly for the next 5 years. During which time I would continue wearing the brace for actiovity other than walking. To date the ACL surgery knee is a lot tighter than the other one. I have had no problems with it, other than I do notice that at times the left leg does not seem to lift as high during a walking stride, causing the toe of my shoe to catch on throw rugs etc. But other than that I have a strong knee that has not held me back at all.

Lawrence C. Hartung
January 4, 2005 12:46 PM

I had ACL surgery in Jan. of 1989, before the ACL could be repaired I needed Miniscus surgery first. I was 40 years old and injured my left knee by attempting to set a 25 ft. light pole in the ground. When the Miniscus healed we did the ACL. The procedure was very much like yours, using the Ham String to replace the ligament. When this particular procedure was performed on me by DR. Frank Nichols, Fort Atkinson, WI it was a realitvely new way of repairing the ligament, so I received a lot of attention form a lot of courious Orthopedic Surgeons. My recovery was a lot different from what I have read with the other posts, looks like things have changed for the better. I was in the Hospital for 4 days, in terrible pain, and could not be discharged until I had learned to get around with crutches. I was fitted for a Lenox Hill brace that I wore pretty much continuesly day and night for the first year. Physical Therapy began about 60 days after surgery, and lasted every bit of one year. During which time there was no sports activity at all, and no work. The brace was regulary adjusted by the DR. to allow for more leg straightening as time went on. I was very aggressive with the therapy, which was to my benefit. After being released from the DR. (2 years after) I would be seen and evaluated by him yearly for the next 5 years. During which time I would continue wearing the brace for activity other than walking. To date the ACL surgery knee is a lot tighter than the other one. I have had no problems with it, other than I do notice that at times the left leg does not seem to lift as high during a walking stride, causing the toe of my shoe to catch on throw rugs etc. But other than that I have a strong knee that has not held me back at all. For advice, be aggressive with the PT, I have seen others who were not and to this day they can not straighten out the leg.

Lawrence C. Hartung
January 4, 2005 12:47 PM

I had ACL surgery in Jan. of 1989, before the ACL could be repaired I needed Miniscus surgery first. I was 40 years old and injured my left knee by attempting to set a 25 ft. light pole in the ground. When the Miniscus healed we did the ACL. The procedure was very much like the ones mentioned, using the Ham String to replace the ligament. When this particular procedure was performed on me by DR. Frank Nichols, Fort Atkinson, WI it was a realitvely new way of repairing the ligament, so I received a lot of attention form a lot of courious Orthopedic Surgeons. My recovery was a lot different from what I have read with the other posts, looks like things have changed for the better. I was in the Hospital for 4 days, in terrible pain, and could not be discharged until I had learned to get around with crutches. I was fitted for a Lenox Hill brace that I wore pretty much continuesly day and night for the first year. Physical Therapy began about 60 days after surgery, and lasted every bit of one year. During which time there was no sports activity at all, and no work. The brace was regulary adjusted by the DR. to allow for more leg straightening as time went on. I was very aggressive with the therapy, which was to my benefit. After being released from the DR. (2 years after) I would be seen and evaluated by him yearly for the next 5 years. During which time I would continue wearing the brace for activity other than walking. To date the ACL surgery knee is a lot tighter than the other one. I have had no problems with it, other than I do notice that at times the left leg does not seem to lift as high during a walking stride, causing the toe of my shoe to catch on throw rugs etc. But other than that I have a strong knee that has not held me back at all. For advice, be aggressive with the PT, I have seen others who were not and to this day they can not straighten out the leg.

Nancy
January 4, 2005 3:02 PM

I have just been notified by my doctor, that I will have to have surgery on my knee! After over a year of dealing with the pain and going to therapy my knee keeps giving out. I was relieved to hear there is finally something that can be done to have my knee back to being somewhat normal. All of my joints hyperextend and my body is always sore, but it's my knee that keeps popping in and out! Which of course makes it very difficult to walk for any amount of time. I guess I'm writing this to kinda get my thoughts out and see if anyone else has any advise how to prepare myself. I know the recovery is going to be tough, I would just like to know a little more about what it feels like, what happened after, and just as much information as possible. I also have a job that requires a lot, so I just want to know what to expect. Thank you so very much!

Paul
January 8, 2005 1:05 AM

Hey, I just got ACL and meniscus--today. No pain yet--could be the drugs. I'm pretty tough, so I'll say "1" on the scale. If you'd like to mail me, go for it, as I'm a pretty quiet kid. I prefer not to take their painkillers, so it could be a rocky road. We'll see. I almost welcome the challenge. My email IS my email, so please don't abuse it. Paul

Paul
January 8, 2005 12:52 PM

Today is the day after surgery and I tried to go it without any pain meds. Oops! Not a good idea. It really does ache like hell without the drugs. I didn't put my email yesterday. If you'd like a day-by-day you can write me @ pkosterman@cs.com Paul

Travis
January 11, 2005 6:53 PM

I tore my ACL this past October in a football game. The doctor used the patella-tendon from the front of my knee. Surgery was two days before Thanksgiving and I spent one night in the hospital. Once I was home, they made me sit in a CPM (continuous passive motion) machine for 8 hours a day to get my motion back in my knee. The pain wasn't anything I couldn't handle so the only pain meds I took were to help me get sleep at night. I was supposed to be in it for two weeks...I hit the target degrees(110) in 5 days. I was able to walk around without crutches within two weeks and was told to ditch the brace. In the next two days the doctor cancled my PT because of how fast I was coming along. I still have exercises to do, but I'm able to do them on my own. A month after surgery I was able to jog but I had to be carefull. I'm about 6-7 weeks out...and the only way you could maybe tell if I had surgery is if you looked at my scars. I'm trying to get my strength back in my knee right now by going to the weight room at school. The only real pain I have right now is when I stretch my leg to both extremes (flexion/extension). I can pull my lower leg almost all the way back so my hamstrings are sitting on my calves. The doc. says I still have a few degrees on my extension but he has no doubt I will get them back. I'm 18 years old and I am planning on being back for track this Spring. If anyone wants to ask me any questions on my recovery, email me...(henryboy_24@yahoo.com)

Steve Mounnarat
January 17, 2005 5:20 PM

I just had reconstructive ACL and meniscus surgery on Friday. So far so good. I am on vicodin and have been since I left the hospital Saturday morning. Not much swelling or pain. Maybe the vicodin is working? Well taking it consistently keeps any pain at bay and I am very compfortable. I have been doing my PT since my surgery and have been able to achieve 90 degree flexsion, probably more if it were not for the bandages. I get them removed tomorrow with my first visit with my Therapist since the surgery.

Debbie
January 19, 2005 6:13 AM

It's been a week since my skiing injury. I have a torn MCL which needs to be rehabbed first. That's about 4-6 weeks. Then, if I'm going through with the ACL surgery, I'll start the PT to prepare for that. Because I'm 45 years old, my orthopedist said surgery was an "option" for me. I could certainly live without it and just use a brace when doing any activities which may have lateral movements. (skiing, tennis, water skiing, etc. All of which I do often!) I can't even imagine carrying a brace around with me for the rest of my life. Maybe if I were 70! My first reaction was to go right ahead and plan for the surgery. I would rather take the time out now to do it. I'm very active, in great shape, and do local road races and triathlons. I'm not ready to slow down yet. I would love to hear from others who may have done the same (MCL & ACL) and have had full recoveries. I'm disciplined enough to do ALL the PT. My doctor prefers to use patella tendon. Would love to hear from some of you "middle-age athletes".

Catherine
January 19, 2005 5:48 PM

I'm 17 years old, a junior in high school, and I went through my second knee surgery on December 3, 04. About three years ago I had lateral release surgery to help stop my knee cap from popping out. I tore my right ACL playing basketball, I went and my leg didn't. I had surgery about 6 weeks ago. I can bend and straighten my leg all of the way. I am happier than I was before bc my PT is letting me do more exercises. The only thing I have to complain about is my doctor is really conservative and I probably won't run until 4 months after surgery or play until June. I guess I will be back in time for summer basketball.

TJ
January 20, 2005 3:19 AM

Hi, i have a question i got an acl surgery on friday 14 of january and the date i am posting this 20, and they have me on Tynenol 3 and is that like a strong thing compared to the stuff you guys use cause i feel pain and i dont want to be popping pills every 4 hours on the dot, and how do you sleep at night ? i sleep like a stick practictally with my face facing the ceiling, but i wake up in pain and my knee would be in extreme pain.

Elliott Koesling
January 20, 2005 12:32 PM

I have a question. I am wondering how I can tell if I tore/sprained/strained my ACL. Is it possible to just strain it and have it recover? I fell snowboarding about 2 months ago and my knee hurt. I got up and boarded down the rest of the hill (gingerly I may add). I walked to my car and drove home. My knee hurt but it wasnt too bad. I could walk and fully bend it. The next morning it hurt alot more. (Kind of like a sprained ankle) but througout the day it got better. Infact it was good enough to go to my works holiday party. I did a little dancing...but took it easy. It doesnt hurt any more at all but there are some time when I tweak it just right and it can hurt (maybe once a week this happens). I guess my question is, how do I know if I tore something....I would only assume you would be screaming in pain, but then again I could be wrong. I dread that I have to have surgery or something I feel for all of you out there with a bad knee. You can post here but do not hesitate to email me if you like. mail(at)ekoesling.com Thanks Elliott

Steve Mounnarat
January 21, 2005 1:34 PM

It has been approximately 1 week since my ACL /meniscus surgery. I have not had any pain since the day of the surgery and I have been off of pain killers for almost 3-4 day and take advil as need for swelling and minror pain relief. I met with my Physical therapist today and I was able to achieve 118 degree flexsion and less than 1cm from full extension. However, I was able to gain full flexsion after a 20 minute leg stretch. I am ahead of recovery schedule and was placed on the bike for the first time today. It felt really good. My PT would not allow me to go full 360 on the bike but 350 and then reverse direction. It felt really good. Initially my surgically repaired leg fetl awkward. The supporting muscles that had laid dorment since the surgery were finally asked to fire and I had a tough time controlling this, spasmatic almost? I can begin to bear some weight in 30% increments in the upcoming weeks and possibly be full weight bearing and crutchless in 1 1/2-2 wks. This recovery has not been all cake. I do exercises on the hour every hour for almost 30-40minutes. By the time I finish and rest/ice for the remainder of the hour, I have to start up the exercises all over again. This begins at 9 am and lasts all day long until 10pm. But it works and my PT said I am ahead of schedule. Diligence is the key to my recovery. These first few weeks is most critical following your surgery, it will shape how quickly and how well you recover. No pain no gain right? So my advice is to get your pain under control and be diligent and don't cheat your therapy exercises. It gets easier every day and the leg gets stronger. The first exercise is always the hardest but after that its downhill. Keep you posted on my recovery.

Steve Mounnarat
January 22, 2005 3:55 PM

I have a question for anyone browsing or reading these blogs. I just recently had my ACL and meniscus surgery approximately 8 days ago, Jan 14,2004. Something really weird happened today. While I was doing one of my quad sets, right before full contraction I felt an awkward pop or sliding in the outside of my left knee. almost like something went in or out of groove. The only description I can give is that similar to your thumb when it pops out of joint for those "double jointed" individuals. There isn't any pain, just really awkward. My first reaction was that I blew my new ACL graft out. I don't see my PT until Tuesday and my surgeon not until Thursday. Can anyone provide some clues or have a similar experience an a possible explanation of what is going on? I'm somewhat fearful to continue my rehab exercises. Again it only occurs while in transition to full quad contraction. I feel the sensation on the outside of my left knee. The swelling in my knee has lessened. Does anyone think that the swelling is allowing some additional things in my knee to move or did I blow out another ligament? You can email me directly at stevemounnarat@mounnarat.com. -Steve

Ginny Barcelona
February 1, 2005 11:33 AM

ACL right knee injured on 30 Mar 04. Took over 4 months to get correct diagnosis. Have had other surgeries before, but this was the most painful of all. ACL was replaced with "doner" Wore brace from top of thigh to ankle for 1 month. Was on crutches for 3 weeks. Had to have front screw removed 3 months after surgery as it was trying to work itself out and was causing a lot of pain. Has this happen to anyone else? Been close to three months since screw removed. Have noticed that there is pain on the right side of the knee, and have had it "pop" on occasion. Again, has this happen to anyone after undergoing ACL replacement.

Carole Kairys
February 8, 2005 3:10 PM

I had ACL reconstruction and a patella release on November 30, 2004. I have just finished the physical therapy my insurance will pay for. Now it's up to me ro finish my recovery. My surgery was two-fold. I had the ACL reconstruction hamstring graft and a Patella release to allow my knee cap to track properly. It was day surgery and took a few hours. Thank g-d for the ice pack take home apparatus they gave me as a going away gift. My knee was swollen up like a grapefruit for about a month and a half. It's been two months since the surgery and I can tell you that although it didn't seem worth it at the time, I know that the surgery will be worth the effort and time to recover. I haven't been able to hike, run, ski, etc. for over 10 years since I torn my ACL hyperextending my knee in a freak accident. I was told to do PT to strengthen my knee but never did and my ACL disintegrated until my ACL was completely gone. I wasn't able to do any sports because my knee kept slipping out of place. I would feel my kneecap slip out of place when I got out of the car...finally I couldn't take it anymore, the pain was annoying and I missed hiking and running not to mention the 40 pounds I had gained from not exercising. My surgery went well. My doctor, Dr. Lyle Micheli is one of the best orthopedic surgeons. He goes with the olympic ski team when they travel. He did my surgery in a few hours. Two weeks after the surgery he thought my swelling had gone down quite nicely. I regret to say, I haven't seen him since, he is quite a busy man! I went home from surgery groggy, happy to have the pain meds - percocet. I had to make sure that when the pain med was supposed to wear off, I had already taken the next one. The pain was almost unbearable but I slept in and out for about 3 days straight, only waking up to my alarm clock to make sure I took my meds and to hobble to the bathroom. The blood rushing into my leg was excruciating. I remember feeling like a little baby, crying, pitiful but at the time it was all I could do. I thought for sure I could go back to work after a week, but after having the double surgery it was not to be. The pain finally subsided after 1 1/2 weeks and I actually thought the pain in my hamstring would never go away. I was in a continuous passive motion machine for about a month but at that point I could bend my knee 80 degrees on my own and I thought the the machine, although very helpful early on, had done it's job. It is a very large, cumbersome machine that caused my boyfriend to have to sleep in the living room for an extended period of time. It's great if your loved ones are patient and caring throughout the early days! Mine was! I had crutches for over a month until I could finally bear 1/2 my weight without them. Now, over two months after surgery, I sleep without my brace, I can almost walk full tilt without my brace or a limp but my muscles in my leg are still very atrophied and I have to start building up my muscles again. I see my doctor tomorrow and I am curious to see what he has to say. I am anxious to work hard on my own to build the muscles and start working out again and feeling like I used to. I am a big pool player and miss my 9-ball game! It's been a long two months, but I'm told it usually takes at least 6 months to be back to normal. Needless to say, I wish it didn't take as long. I would recommend the surgery, but make sure you are aware, if you have double surgery, recovery takes longer and just when you feel you are getting nowwhere in recover, just remember how you used to feel with instability in your knee and remember when you couldn't withstand any weight on your leg and now you can walk without crutches. I still have a long way to go, but I know I've had two surgeries in one and I have to expect to take my time but in the end it will be well worth the pain, agony and inconvenience. I remember when I was able to finally get in my car and drive on my own without having pain from pressure on my hamstring! My commute to work is over 45 minutes, so I had some adjusting to do. Good luck to all and write me if you want some advice, stories or have questions. Both my dad and brother are doctors and my PT therapists are very well informed. Carole

Rebecca
February 17, 2005 6:05 AM

I just stumbled onto this site looking up information on ACL surgery and ligament tears. I tore my ACL back in 96 when I was in the Army. Took about 2-3 weeks to recover and I was pretty much fine and hardly ever experienced and pain from the knee though I was advised to have surgery I chose not to. Friday night I was out dancing with a friend of mine and twisted my knee and heard a loud pop. I was unable to put pressure on my knee without extreme pain and can not fully straigten out the knee either. I was advised at the ER to wear an immoblizer brace and elevate the leg and put ice on it 20 minutes 3X a day. And of course take my pain meds. The pain is almost gone unless I try and straighten out the leg completely or walk on it. As long as I use the crutches or slide around in my office chair the pain is manageable. I go into the doctor on Friday to determine what steps we are going to take next. I think my kneecap has slipped preventing me to straighten out my leg fully. I am almost certain this time that I will have to have surgery. It is refreshing to read all of these stories of recovery and know that I will be okay. I am the mother of 5 beautiful children and a wife to an awesome hubby. When things like this happen doubts enter my mind and it scares me to think that I might never be able to walk again. Seeing these really helped me to understand that this might be a major surgery but I will get through it and will be walking again soon.

Andreea
February 17, 2005 11:09 AM

I am 29 years old. I've completly torned my left ACL in January 2000, in a sking accident. It took me more than a year to get to a doctor who told me what my problem was and recommended me for ACL reconstruction surgery. I got the surgery in April 2001. I've been doing pretty good for the last few years. I do not reggret having the surgery at all. If you love sports is essential having this surgery. Before it I had no stability in my left leg which was popping out all the time and was hurting me a lot. For the last few years I've been rowing competitively (I actually won a few medals), and I've worked out a lot. I had absolutely no problems rowing. I've recently decided to start race walking. I would like to compete in the World Master's Games (in both rowing and racewalking). I was wondering if anybody with an ACL reconstruction is a race walker and if he/she experieced any problems and could recommend anything. I can race walk decently fast. My problem is that I feel weekness in my hamstring (which was used for reconstruction) and after a while I feel my leg a little numb. I also have the feeling that one of my legs (the injured one) is a little bit shorter than the other one. It is probably because I have to extend the leg a lot, and sometimes I have to overextend. Do you think is detrimental to my leg to do this, or I just need to train my specific muscles involved in racewalking and everything will be fine? Thank you!

Mandee Felker
February 17, 2005 1:29 PM

I have recently tore my ACL and Miniscus during a snowmobile race. I was and still am absolutly terrified of having surgery. I decided to get on the internet to find out what the whole process consisted of. Im 18 years old and thankfully have never been this hurt before. My biggest fear is just the whole surgery issue. I dont know why but it just is. After reading this, I felt like everything would be ok after hearing a recovery surgery. Im afraid that something will go wrong and I wont ever be able to race professional Sno-X again. I wasnt sure which surgery I was going to get but after reading this I think I will take the hamstring apporach..Thank You! Best of luck to all in surgery and your recovery

Tori
February 24, 2005 3:16 PM

I tore my ACL and miniscuis in a softball game last May and I had to get the hamstring replacement. After a month or so I was fine and everything and now that softball is back in season I'm hoping to be able to play well again. Only problem is that whenever I run in the grass before practice... my hamstring starts to hurt like hell and my calf muscle tightens and it makes it hard to even walk... I was wondering if anyone knew how I coule fix that... I do lots of stretches before and after pracitce... but it still hurts. Its not even my knee thats botherning me:(

Midge
February 25, 2005 6:00 PM

I tore my ACL two weeks ago playing sand volleyball. (I live in Phoenix) When my doctor called me with the results on Mon he said we would discuss surgery next week when I come in. My knee hardly swole up and doesn't hurt, I'm just always expecting it to buckle again. I bumped into someone today who said he used to be an orthapedic doc. He saw my brace and asked me where the scar was. I told him I hadn't had the surgery yet. I asked him if I could pick his brain for a minute and he wasn't all that excited about the proceedures. He said a lot of it is hipe, the surgery doesn't have to be done. Course maybe he just said that because he wasn't in his office giving advice. At any rate, he wasn't the first to say I didn't have to get it done. I just know that at the activity level I'm at for my age (44) I can't see NOT having it done. Did any of you out there have people trying to convince you NOT to have the surgery done?

Kevin
February 28, 2005 8:42 AM

I am a college basketball player and i have torn my left acl twice. Completely both times. My doctor was amazing and really liked to push through rehab. I actually started at quarterback for my high school football team 4 and a half months post surgery. I did not tear it again until 3 years later. I was then back playing basketball at 5 months. I did the patella graf the first time and a cadaver the second time and i am curious as to why people choose to do the hamstring? Everything i have read and the 4 or 5 orthopedic surgeons i talked to all do not like that surgery. The hamstring is one if the thee most common body part injured in sports and if you take a chunk of it for your new ACL your making it even weaker just making your risk even high for a hamstring tear or pull. Can anyone tell me why that would make sense?

Steve
March 4, 2005 11:55 AM

It has been about 8 weeks since my surgery in January 2005. I just got back from a business trip that took me from NY to Taiwan->Hong Kong->Germany and back home. It has truly been around the globe trip. My surgically repaired ACL and meniscus is still doing well. My surgeon did not give me a choice, I received a patella graft. I trust him, considering he knows what he's doing but he is also the head surgeon for a pro Hockey team. It appears that it was the best choice, as I have played soccer all my life, my hamstrings can use all the help it needs. I was transitioned into my functional brace about 3 weeks ago and had to fly immediately 1 week after this. For anyone travelling abroad, my only advice is to make sure you get hotels with a gym and bring your basic leg waits to do your exercises. The only problem is when your on business, your return to your your hotel is generally pretty late so option for hotels with gym hours that are either 24 hrs or open late and open very early. Make sure they have both cardio and nautilus equipment. Free weights do not help much when you're trying to isolate the knee to amazingly 5-10 pound resistance. Oh another thing, weight machines indicating increment 5,10,15 etc... do not respresent pounds, they are in kilogram. So beware you maybe pushing much harder weight than your knee can handle. My leg feels strong but I still have a bit of a limp when I am tired and walking. Otherwise, you would never know. When flying, my doctor prescribed me to some "baby aspirin" about 81mg to help thin my blood while in the air. It helps to thin the blood and avoid clots. Ankle pumps are key and constantly getting up and walking helps too, even if you are 30,000 ft in the air. Oh, it really helps if you fly either business class or make sure your travel agent gets you aisle seating so your not restricted to just a knee bend. Next goal, running!!!

Jill
March 6, 2005 4:36 PM

I tore my ACL meniscus (both) in a soccer game. I am a 29 years old physical education teacher (I had to get surgery) and am 3 weeks post surgery. I have partial hamstring and allograft (cadaver). I feel like I am progressing at a slow rate as I am just starting PT on Monday. I've been doing my exercises and using a CamoPed vs a CPM machine. Anyone else using one too or used one? I am only at about 80 degree flexion when laying down on my back. I can't stand the brace as it slides down my leg constantly and if I make it tight my leg swells at the bottom half. I don't mind crutches but I think I have to ditch the brace.

Jill
March 6, 2005 4:45 PM

Mandee, I think having the surgery is wise. I have not heard of anyone talking someone out of having it. I would honestly just recommend the allograft no hamstring. That's been the toughest part for me. It affects your calf too. My doc. said that most females don't have strong enough hamstring tendons and then they have to layer the allograft over it anyway. He did that with mine and I wish I had just said ALLOGRAFT only. I am 3 weeks post op and the worst part is the brace, it's annoying. Good luck to you. Oh, and being young...you'll heal just fine!!

Mike
March 6, 2005 5:27 PM

I had snowmobile accident about 5 weeks ago, tearing my ACL and Miniscus. I had the surgery five days ago. I will be meeting with the doc on Tuesday to get all the particulars of the surgery. I've been in the Army 15 yrs and have had no major injuries. This was my first surgery and yes, it scared the hell out of me. I have a four inch long scar down the front of the leg from the kneecap toward my shin. Then another across the top of that about two inches. I just need to get back to my Army duties and will be happy. My surgeon is the medical doctor for a minor league baseball team. Can't be that bad then. Good luck to all.

Navin
March 7, 2005 12:17 PM

I had my reconstruction (ACL and mensicus tears) surgery 8 weeks ago. I now go to the gym 4-5 times a week, using a knee strap (to reduce the patellar tendonitis). I usually end up doing some weights (upper body, so it doesn't matter), 35 to 40 mins of elliptical, and sometimes leg curls, hack squats (regular standing squats are out of the question). However, it still hurts when I climb/descend stairs. Is that ok, how long will it last? I think my physio said I can start jogging pretty soon (a week or two). Would be great to hear from ppl who are at the same stage of recovery or can vividly remember the pain at this point ;-) Thanks, -Navin

jake T
March 12, 2005 3:59 PM

I had acl and miniscus surgery on march 1st i am a week and 4 days into recovery. At first it hurt like hell having to take vicodin to releive the pain as that started to progress i was in my machine that moved my leg and i felt a slight little pop like my knee was just readjusting nothing hurt but now as the days go by its starting to irratate and feel really awkward, the pain is pretty much gone but the awkwardness of my knee is still there, it feels like when ur double jointed or bone pops a little, im 18 and i did this starting football. Is this not normal? i see my doc. on tuesday. I had the patalla surgery. Before the pop i could put decently amounts of pressure on it but now i can not having to use my crutches for most the work.

Mike G
March 13, 2005 11:26 AM

I had my ACL repair on Feb 28/05 and have range of motion of 10 to 100 degrees on day 14 from working my knee consistently. This is my second knee to be repaired with the same technique (arthroscopy & semitendonosis graft) - the first in 1991 was a complete success allowing me to continue to pursue a range of high impact sports (including squash and skiing) about six months later. I have tremendous confidence the current repair will be as good if not better because I have started with less pain, more range of motion and strength than the first time. Why? The difference: surgery two weeks after injury vs. two days; four hours of hospital vs two days; less prescriptive pain drugs and more ice and some tylenol; aggressive rehab was immediate (starting with simply moving my foot in circles, walking without crutches after five days, elastic and static resistance exercises, to stationary biking at day 14) and I anticipate this will continue to progress reasonably. My advice: get a great doctor, get the surgery and get working at it. It works if you do. Good luck.

Kasia
March 14, 2005 10:05 AM

I had surgery about two months ago, January 18th to be exact. In the third half of my first basketball game, some girl kicked my knee out from the inside. I thought that maybe I tore my meniscus or a lateral ligament, but no, to my dismay, I ended up tearing my ACL. Two weeks after the ordeal, (surgery), I was able to walk, about a month later or so, I've been able to run around, just last week I was able to jump rope and such. A few friends of mine that have experienced the same injury weren't able to do half as much for atleast two months. One friend in particular couldn't walk for a month after surgery. Right now, I feel like I might be overdoing it, I have a "bump" right where the major incision is. It's not fluid or anything, I believe that it's my bone. Weird huh? Well if any of you sufer from the same "weirdness" tell me about it.

monica
March 16, 2005 6:08 PM

I am 13 years old n i play all kinds of sports. But dering basketball i went to rebound the ball and a girl came up and hit me in the knee and then i fell and just started crying. So my mom took me to the doctors and they took a x~ray and then they said it was just a sprain. But then 3 months after that when track started i was complaining that my knee kept popping and hurting. So my mom said before i started going to track meets that she was going to take me to a specilist. So we went to another docter and he moved my knee all around and said it wasnt a sprain and made us get a MRI done. So a week after that we brought the pictures in from the MRI and he said that i tore my ACL. When he told me that i just wanted to start crying because i really wanted to do 7th grade track and i show horses so i couldnt do any horse shows that were coming up eaither. I am sooooooo scared about the sergury that is on March 22, soo i just hope everything gos well!!

DEBBIE
March 19, 2005 7:08 AM

Hello, My fifteen year old daughter was diagnosed with tearing the ACL dureing drills in Track practice.Her knee slid of to the side with a pop.MRI diagnosed the tear.They want to do surgery and what I want to know is has anyone chose not to have the surgery and find it heeled just fine? I have found testamonies that are scary with results of problem knees after surgery.Anyone find that NOT haveing the surgery can be just as fine as haveing the surgery?? Thanks concerned mom

Adam Kalsey
March 19, 2005 9:15 AM

I'm not a doctor, so my research into this and personal experience with the injury is all I have to go on. The ACL cannot heal after it tears. The ligament is like a rubber band and once it breaks, the two ends won't ever touch again. There are many people that have skipped surgery, but from what I've heard, you have a very high risk of early arthritis and your knee will never be the same. All that's holding it together are the muscles. At your daughter's age and since she's involved in sports, I think she should have a serious talk with her doctor about the surgery before deciding not to have it.

Lauren
March 22, 2005 3:37 PM

I tore my acl in a basketball game in december and the doctors didn't get me in until March 16 which really screwed me over with the rest of the basketball season which I knew that I would miss but it also messed up my softball season and the basketball and softball summer leagues that I had panned on playing in. I am really afraid to play basketball next year because of this because I dont want to miss softball again. I mean my brother tore his when he was 12 and it is now torn again and he doesnt want to get it fixed again and has quit sports. The last thing that I want to do is the surgery again so it's going to be hard for me to paly again. I also know another girl who tore hers in a bastketball game and then did it again a year later. Does this reaccuring tear happen often because I am really afraid of this??

mallory
March 26, 2005 6:03 PM

I am 14 years old and I tore my ACL during my junior high basketball game. There was a girl in front of me and a girl behind me and i could tell she was going to pass the ball so i jumped in the air to get it but when i came down my leg went one way and my body the other causing my knee to twist and tear. right after the game i went to go get x-rays. when they x-rayed my bad knee(left) they couldnt really tell because i was still growing so they x-rayed my (right) and compared and found that something was wrong but thought it should heal on its own. The next day i went to a specialist and he looked at my knee and didnt think anything was wrong but he couldnt move it exactly like he wanted to so I got a MRI and it showed that my ACL was torn it wsa over the holidays so i couldnt get in to have surgery for a while so i went ot P.T. to get it strong for surgery. In February i had surgery and they used my hamstring because my growth plates were still open its been close to 2 months now and im doing great! I continue to go to therapy twice a week and im getting stronger every time! im very EXCITED to get back in to my sports! good luck if this ever happens to you!

Karen
March 28, 2005 2:37 PM

I was thrown from a jeep in June of '04 and started having trouble with my knee giving out on me. I didn't pay any attention to it because of the other injuries that I had that were obvious. Finally in August I saw an Ortho. Surgeon and had an MRI done. Come to find out my ACL was completey torn and thats why I kept falling. I had reconstructive surgery on August 24, 2004 and have had a great recovery. I did really well in therapy, I guess it helped being a competition cheerleader for 4 years in highschool. My therapist did a great job. I still have pain from the scar tissue and from the surgery but I'm almost back to normal. I gained almost all of my muscle back with in 4 months.

Shauna
March 29, 2005 2:17 PM

I tore my acl about 6 months ago in a soccer game. I was playing goalie, and I went to punt it, but my left leg twisted when my foot hit a little hole in the ground and my knee popped. The doctor said it was just a a sprain so i continued to finish up the soccer season. When basketball came around, i went to a specialist and he said i tore me acl. I got a brace to wear while my growth plates closed up. The basketball season went fine. Now my growth plates are closing so I am getting suregery April 18! Wish Me Luck!

Michelle
March 30, 2005 1:30 PM

Hey, I tore my ACL and MCL two nights ago at gymnastics. I did a twisting move and my foot planted and my body kept going. I was reading everyone's stories and it's making me feel better about a fast recovery. I love cheerleading and I don't know what I'd do without it. My question is of the hamstring and cadaver types of ACL surgery, which do you think heals faster? Also, how long do you think before full recovery is achieved, like able to jump and all. Please respond! Michelle

Bobbie
April 7, 2005 12:57 PM

Well my story is pretty similar to everyone elses. I don't remember exactly when i tore my acl but i think it was when i was in junior high playing basketball. It has never really bothered me before but once i got into college it would "lock" up on me and i couldnt really walk on it. I had to go to doctor and he told me that my acl was completely torn and i had no idea. I'm 21 years old and he decided that i better get the surgery done since i was young and was having problems even walking sometime. It has been one month since my surgery and i am able to walk and get around on my own with the help of a brace. I had to start to go to physical therapy last week because my quad muscle went way down and i lost a lot of my strength to even lift my leg. but now i am able to do this and i think i am progressing much better. i have pretty good range of motion and it doesnt really bother me except for it aches every now and then. I just want to get back to normal now.................

LaRea
April 8, 2005 1:38 PM

I am soooooo scared to get surgery. I just found out yesterday that I will have it the 20th of April. I have a complete tear in my ACL that happened on the 5th of March and I wasn't sure if it was ok for me to wait this long for the surgery. I tore it while doing a jump at a cheerleading competition on a spring floor. Right in the middle of the routine. I pulled my hardest and when I landed the jump my knee cap popped out of place and it was a SHARP pain when I walked to the next spot. I was in alot of pain but I had to finish and as soon as I "cheered" off the floor I grabbed on to one of the girls and cried my heart out. The medic there said that I had dislocated my knee cap (which I did) But something about a guy in a red cheerleading shirt with "MEDIC" on the back of his shirt and no badge, where I can see, did nothing for me. I needed a real opinion. The next day I woke up at 4:30 in the morning screamin in pain trying to hop two feet from my bed to my floor in agony because i turned teh wrong way in bed. So the next day (or later that day since it was 4:30) we went to the doctor and he told me all I did was dislocate my knee cap. ERRRRR! wrong. I went to the orthopedic doctor got a MRI done (45 minutes of absolute stillness). That's when I found out about the ACL thingy. Long story short, it sucks and I really want to get back to cheerleading. I had just got my back handspring when that happened.

Sharon Shuteran
April 10, 2005 8:15 AM

I tore my ACL skiing in January. Did a lot of PT toget extension and flexion and had surgery 2 months later. At 51 I opted for my own hamstring (based on people telling me of longer rehab and more pain and long term issues with patella) rather than a cadaver (risk of infection, rejection, etc). I did surgery on a Thursday afternoon, stayed overnight, and only had bad pain on Saturday morning (after a five hour drive home). Relieved by Vicodin and an aleve. Up and about by Sunday. Full rotation on bike at 9 days and on treadmill. A month out, scar pain, but you can barely tell I had surgery. Good PT is crucial.

Gordon
April 11, 2005 3:15 PM

I have torn my ACL twice - once in martial arts, the other playing/coaching soccer. The first time, I went through a new procedure to have it repaired and shrank, while this time, I had to have it reconstructed. I chose the cadever graft. I had surgery January 24, 2005. I had a doctor in Colorado Springs, Co that works on Olympic athletes, as well as some from area college sports teams. I started therapy 7 days after, lost the crutches 10 days after surgery, and lost the brace 15 days after surgery. Today, I am riding a bike full speed, treadmill at a walk/jog at a 15% incline, and jogging again in soccer practice with the kids. I can still not do cutting and twisting per dr. orders, but I feel I can physically do it. I have had virtually no pain since the nerve block wore off the night of surgery, and have no regrets at doing the surgery. At 50%, I feel better and stronger than I have in years.

Sammy
April 11, 2005 5:41 PM

i got the surgery done on last friday (april 8th). i tore my ACL when i was playing volleyball. I don't know what happened but when i went for a block and as soon as i landed, my left knee gave out and i fell on the floor and couldn't get back up. i've been on my bed with my left knee elevated. Everytime i need to goto the bathroom and have to use my crutches to get there, all my blood feels like it rushes to my knee and feels like it's goin to explode. anyone please tell me how long before i can stand up without any pain?

Jennifer Diaz
April 11, 2005 7:45 PM

I had surgery six months ago. I followed the doctor’s orders and the therapist instruction. I can dance as well as I did before I tore the ACL. It takes time but do all the exercises recommended, but most importantly don’t push your knee to had. Do only what you can tolerate. You’ll be back on your feet doing what you like to do in no time. Also be very careful.

Mike D.
April 14, 2005 10:55 AM

I tore my ACL on 3/13/05 while I was preparing to start a recreational basketball league. I went to our church that recently built a new recreation center and started shooting baskets, then went for a layup and when I landed, my knee popped and I kind of blacked out for a second. Then I found my self on the floor holding my knee in pain. After about two weeks, I was able to walk almost normal again, with the feeling that my knee was somewhat unstable. I had an MRI done and found that I tore my ACL completely. On 4/7/05, I had my ACL reconstruction surgery done using my patella tendon (recommended by my dr who was formerly the team doctor for the Minnesota Vikings), so I am suprised to hear some negatives about it from everyone here. Anyways, I am now a week post-op and am finally able to do straight leg raises. I have a flexiation of 85 degrees and am still experiencing a bad ache when I bend my knee or do any PT. My doctor said I should have been walking by Sunday (4 days post-op), I knew that seemed really agressive. I am still on crutches and today I was able to move around without crutches, but felt really unstable and had an overall bad feeling, so I am going to stick with the crutches for at least a few more days until I feel better about my leg strength. I stopped taking my Percocet a few days ago, after they started giving me fevers after every PT appt., then when I stopped taking the pills cold turkey, I began going through withdrawal. Now I am getting cold sweats constantly, running fevers and just feel down right icky. I am curious to see if anyone else has had these issues after stopped taking percocet? It almost seems like I am behind schedule with my rehab.

Michael
April 19, 2005 5:10 PM

First tore the ACL on 5 January 2002 at age 42. Just a little benign fall at very low speed on the ski hill. Went the rehab and brace route which worked fine until 31 December 2004 when I had another fall while wearing the brace (braces do not guard against stupidity). My knee became totally unstable, collapsing sometimes three times a day even when just standing. Anyways I had a hamstring graft reconstruction on 8 March 2005 and really have had minimal pain and discomfort overall. I woke up in recovery feeling as fresh as any other day and the nerve block was really effective for the first 24 hours or so. I was able to weight bear basically from day one. No graft pain at all in the hamstring, just a little bruising. One tip though...when they say elevate the leg, get it way up there (18 inches), not just one thick pillow. My knee and ankle looked like a stuffed sausage until I caught onto this one. I was prescribed a cool therapy pack for the first two weeks 24-7 (51 bags of party ice) which worked fantastic. Started PT after two weeks and my only issue was with swelling and subsequent pain if I was up for too long (over 2 hours). Its been 6 weeks today. On doctor's advice I have been on the crutches, but all I really needed them for was sympathy and to keep people out of my way. When I saw my surgeon today,he was pleasantly surprised at the strength in the leg and is very happy with the stability of the knee. He told me I can reduce use of the crutches as pain allows, so with his blessing I dropped them off at the pharmacy as I left the office. I have been stationary cycling, doing leg presses, elliptical walker and hamstring springs for three weeks and I feel great. The whole reconstruction experience for me has been good. Pay attention to the instructions, do the excercises, and be positive! I figure a good outlook is half the battle and its working for me.

Katie
April 23, 2005 8:34 PM

I just tore my ACL one week ago in a soccer game. I was sprinting and made a cut and felt it pop. I have surgery scheduled in less than 3 weeks. I am most concerned with being able to be back to speed in October when I start my senior year soccer season. My speed and aggresiveness is what makes me stand out on the field and I am so afraid of losing that. Especially when it is my senior year when I am looking to play in college. I just pray I will be back to normal around January when districts start.

Kristen
April 23, 2005 11:21 PM

I tore my ACL on Feburary 28, 2005 doing gymnastics. I was in San Antonio for a competition and vault was my first event and on the landing of my first vault my knee just made a circling motion and gave out and i jumped over onto my stomach. I knew i tore my ACL cuz i took athletic training last semester and we studied ACL tears for awhile. but they put ice on my knee right away and i didn't even look at it. My mom took me to the hospital that was close by and they tested it with the valgus tests and all the rest of those where they pull your knee in every direction. They told me that the good news was that it appeared that i didn't tear my ACL but it looked like i tore my MCL. Once i got back to Colorado i had an MRI and found out i tore the ACL but everything else was ok, just a slight tiny tear of the meniscus which was nothin to worry about. My dad has had problems with his knee so i went to the same surgon he does, he's supposed to be on of the best in colorado! He's worked with many athletes and one of my teammates blew out her knee last year and went to him. I had surgery on March 30, i was put to sleep and was released about an hour after surgery. I had the block done (Where they numb your whole leg) and it left my leg numb for the rest of the day. I had to have my sister lift my leg while i used crutches so i could get into the house, but i was not in pain that whole day thanks to the block! I stayed home from school the week following surgery and for the first 5 days after surgery everytime i stood up, all the blood felt like it ran to my knee and it would start throbbing. I started Physical Therapy about 1.5 weeks after surgery. about 2 weeks after surgery i was off crutches but i still have my brace on and i still have to wear it when i sleep. They PT did fix my brace so that i can bend it 30 degrees 3 weeks after surgery. It's almost been 4 weeks since surgery and im starting to walk better, i can almost get the pedals all the way around on the stationary bike and i can straighten my knee all the way. i have a few questions tho...How long after surgery was it til you can go for runs again? and i want to try out for Cheerleading in august, will i be able to tumble and jump like i could before by then?

claire
April 26, 2005 12:45 PM

I tore my acl March 14 while hurdleing in track practice. i felt strong after 3 weeks of rehab but then it gave out on me and swelled up just like the first time. I am going to have surgery on June 8, and hopefully i will rebound back soon.

Sarah
April 30, 2005 7:07 AM

I tore my acl just the day before yesterday playing basketball. I've heard basketball is one of the hardest sports (especially for girls) on your knee. I have school basketball in six months. If I do everything they say, can I be 100% by then? Also what is the best surgery of all the options?

Drake
May 1, 2005 11:28 AM

Tore my Acl playing soccer and few years back, when i was 14. I managed to live with it having a partial torn acl. unfortunatly it Pop's out here or there and i eventually tore the whole thing. Im 18 about to get my acl reconstruction this wensday. Im trying to find out what my recovery is going to be like, but everyone is different. Hopefully all is well, i keep you up to date.

Peter Castorena
May 4, 2005 8:15 AM

My name is Peter I live in El Paso Tx. (23) and I am a senior at UTEP I tore my acl about five years ago playing soccer and I finally had the resources to pay for the surgery. After the surgery I had a negative reaction to the morphine and anesthisia I was throwing up and had difficulty breathing so I was admitted to the hospital and stayed 24 hours until I was realeased. I had surgery about a week ago and I currently have problems sitting and even sleeping, but as each day goes by everything improves. The pain is non stop eventhough I am taking the pain pills I constantly feel thumping on my thigh and I still have not managed to stand on my two legs. I just hope I can walk before my summer term at school starts in a month.

Mindi
May 4, 2005 9:44 AM

I am 18 years old I had acl I got surgery Feb 10,05. I have been able to get back so fast I just made cheerleader at the university of utah. I torn my acl tumbling doing a full. I just don;t know if I am pushing it to much. I don't want to retear anything.

Linda
May 5, 2005 1:11 PM

I tore my acl playing football last year in March 04. I had surgery in July and now one year later I'm faced with surgery again! I'm very angry that I have to go through the whole recovery process again. The only thing I have to say is that if you want to have surgery be sure that you are willing to stick with your recovery religiously. I'm only 22 and very active so the second surgery is going to happen no questions about it. I also had hamstring reconstructive surgery and this time around I will be having the petalla tendon graft surgery. Hopefully this will not have to happen a third time because I'm running out of options as far as taking my own tendons as replacements. I just know this time around I'm not taking any more chances. Good luck to all that are thinking of having it and good job to all that have had it and that are doing well now.

Anita Lewis
May 10, 2005 2:56 PM

I tore my ACL 11 months ago during soccer practice. It really sucked because it was my first year on varsity and I had only played 3 games on varsity. My knee hurt every once and a while.

Zachary Pyles
May 10, 2005 9:33 PM

I am a student coach at Mid America Nazaene University for women's volleyball and i tore my ACL on April 20. I actually just had surgery today (May 10th) and am looking around for pictures of what it will look like tomorrow. Anyways, i have a femoral block right now so i can't feel much of anything in my leg but i think that will be a different story tomorrow morning. i chose to have the patellar tendon graft as opposed to the other options as advised by the doctor for college age athletes. i am also a goal keeper on the soccer team. good luck to you all who are in the same boat.

Kintra
May 11, 2005 4:41 AM

I had my ACL reconstructed on April 28th of this year.So far my progress has been great. I almost have total motion of my knee(says the PT),but I'm not so sure. I need to do the exercises more cause my leg is very weak in terms of lifting it.I think the worst thing about my surgery was the timing, due to my having to move soon. Otherwise, I believe my doctor's did a great job.

kelsey
May 11, 2005 1:23 PM

i just had acl surgery last week. My week was pretty similar to Adams, except i had a surgery where they took a donor acl and replaced it with my torn acl. Today is exactly a week from the surgery and i still am in pain but my range of motion has improved. Im 16 years old and i hurt my acl about a month ago playing soccer and i was sprinting at full speed and changed direction and my knee popped. I am hopeing i will return to playing soccer within 5 months with a lot of training and hard work.

Bobby
May 16, 2005 11:06 AM

I tore my ACL (Grade III - complete tear) and MCL (Grade III - complete tear) a couple weeks ago while playing basketball. Luckily, I got my x-rays and MRI within a week after the incident. My knee was pretty swollen. My swelling decreased significantly since then (2 weeks later) by doing the following: Crutches Tensor wrap around knee (all the time) Cryocuff - comes with a wrap, thermos for the ice Ice massage - fill dixie cups with water, freeze them and then rub ice around painful spots for no more than 2-4 min..this technique is used for tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) hinge brace quad exercises. I have found that the tensor wrap has helped the most since the tension helps with the swelling (compression) and stabilization (allows my MCL to heal). I want to avoid surgery but I don't think that is possible in my case. I will have to miss a couple weeks of work (hopefully I can work from home). Good luck to everyone.

Mitch
May 16, 2005 6:44 PM

well hello there adam, sounds like you had it pretty rough...i play soccer in april and i tore my acl when i was 14 from shooting a ball in a game, then landing on it awkwardly. I ended up tearing it all the way.I had surgery in june, recovered very well from it, in march of next year, i was back playing soccer indoor in toledo. i thought i was back to normal and back to about 100%. I tore my ACL again. thought i just strained it again. had surgery about 2 weeks ago and this surgery was a lot smoother than last one. my condition now was probably where i was 1-2 months after surgery the last time. I used an allograft from a dead person, its going very well. keep your hopes up homies with bad knees because god will take care of you

Alisha
May 17, 2005 9:45 PM

I just tore my ACL a month ago and my medial meniscus. I tore it from running the 100m hurdles. I landed wrong and hyper-extended my knee and twisted it all at once. My ACL snapped in 2. I was misdiagnosed, so I developed a "trick" knee and was fooled into thinking I was recovering, so I started getting more active again to get ready to run at the regional track meet so I could qualify for the state meet. Anyways....my knee totally slipped out of place, so the doctor sent me in for an MRI and found out there was some pretty extensive damage in there.....possibly some of it wouldn't be there if I had been properly diagnosed the first time, but knees are tricky so I don't blame anyone. So, I didn't get to run at that regional track meet and it's my senior year. The year before I had the misfortune of actually falling down right before what would've been a sure 2nd place finish and automatic qualification for state. It was at the 8th hurdle......same hurdle that caused me to tear my ACL. lol. Well, I'm going to have surgery soon. I have no idea how bad the road ahead is going to be, but I fear it'll be bad.

David
May 19, 2005 7:57 AM

I'm 18 years old, I'm from Brazil and while playing soccer I don't know if I tore my acl and I'm going to talk to the doctor tomorrow(may 19 2005) about the circuntances, he didn't know the first day I went because my knee was swolen and he told me to came back 2 weeks later which is tomorrow. In the first visit he saw how my joint was loose and he said that probably my acl is tore. Tomorrow I will write how I did in the hospital!!!

Aynn
May 21, 2005 7:39 PM

Hi.....I am 44 it has been 6 days and just finished getting my new ACL (cadaver). After several discussions with others as well as my doc, I chose this route. I am pretty much out of pain except when I bring the leg out of bed after it has been elevated for a bit. I get a very painful rush of blood and fluid throughout the knee. OUCH is all that comes to mind. I am doing my PT and will be released to the bike next week. I came to this site because of the weird kind of pains that I go through at times. I am just trying to get a grip as to whats in front of me. I hope with every week that passes I will be able to do more without feeling these pains. I can honestly say that I have never laughed so hard (maybe it's the drugs) just reading some of the ads here. I do feel a bit better about maybe it taking longer than 1 week to feel great as a couple of people have described here. After I read a few, I was beggining to wonder if something went wrong with mine. I see my doc next week. I'll keep posting on here weekly for those that are a bit older and are not having the surgery just yet. I did go through 3 weeks of rehab before my surgery! Good luck to all...Aynn 44

Scott
May 27, 2005 11:12 AM

Today is day 16 since my ACL replacement using my Hamstring as a graft. I'm a 39 year old desk jockey but I play hard out of the office via martial arts, hiking, and hunting. The first 3 days were fuzzy as I was on drugs, the following week I went back to week on a part time basis, and now I'm working full time. In retrospect I wish I had taken close to 2 full weeks off, as I couldn't get comfortable and couldn't concentrate on my work. Physically, PT has provided enormous benifit in strengh, flexibility, and pain management. While it will be close to 6-8 months before I can practice and teach Martial Arts, I expect that I'll be biking and possibly fly fishing in another 2 months.

Sharron
May 30, 2005 8:46 PM

I tore my ACL about a month and a half ago on april 14th playing soccer for a PE course at my college. I was running and pivoted on my left leg, not moving my foot, and my knee started cracking for a second and then i fell. I was able to walk on it right away, mostly because i didn't like all of the people hoarding around me. I didn't think i was hurt, so i walked back to my dorm and decided to take a shower, i realized there was something wrong when my knee was puffy and i couldnt get my knee over the side of the bath tub shower. I then went to the Dr. and was told i had torn my ACL. My MRI showed that i had a partial tear in my ACL and also my Cartilidge. Make sure you start phsycial therapy ASAP when u find u did something to your knee. My surgery actually happens to be tommorrow mornring at 6:30. I'm not to scared about it, i'm just ready to get the whole thing over with so i can get on with my life. i'm taking a week off from school, right before finals, so we will see how that goes. I will have to come back and post how it finishes up. Good Luck to everyone who is going through this same thing.

Chris
June 1, 2005 7:44 PM

I completely tore my Acl in a Judo match, I was in a match with a guy about 200 pounds and he was short so it made it hard to pick him up and throw him. I had went in and lifted while I planted my foot wrong and I felt my knee just give way. Anyway I am going to have the surgery but I am just not sure wheather or not to have what I think is called an aliograph, or to have it graphed from my own leg.

Richard
June 3, 2005 6:11 PM

I am 38 and injured my knee about 5 weeks ago. I went to the docter and was diagnosed with a complete tear of my acl along with other potential tears to internal meniscus. I then went through pre-op pt for about 4 weeks to strenghten my knee and reduce swelling before surgery. I just had surgery last week to repair my torn (complete, grade III) acl along with tears on my medial meniscus and lateral meniscus. Both meniscus tears could only be repaired by cutting out part of the meniscus. My surgery involved using a cadaver tendon and I was an outpatient who had a "femerul block" along with some medication to cause me to forget everything. I went home that afternoon after the surgery. It has been 10 days since the surgery and I just had my staples out today. I had 3 small incisions (3" is the longest". Aside from the flexibility and extension difficulties (yes, they are still painful to do), the most painful part for me is the blood and fluid which ended up in my calf. Geez! Talk about pressure on the calf! This is more sore right now than the knee but it is getting better. Don't be suprised about bruising from the thigh down to the foot (yellow along with black and blue). I've been to 1 pt session thus far and my second is tomorrow. After breaking my now playing bball (along with fingers, teeth, etc.), breaking my thumb downhilling skiing, and now my knee....I think I'm going to take up Texas Hold'em. Good luck to all! -Rich

Kevin
June 4, 2005 7:57 PM

I'm 37 years of age and tore my ACL for the second time racing Motocross. I used a sports medicine doctor Sandersclinic.net and being an active adult, he swears that a patella graft is the only option for anyone wishing to continue sports after surgery. The other grafts fail too easily. I never spent a single day on crutches, I walked out of the hospital the day after surgery with no brace or cane. I got back on my bike at 5 weeks and it now has been 7 weeks and I'm ready to race. My results may not be typical, but I am working really hard at my rehab. Please, if you need surgery don't let the doctor talk you into an allograft if you wish to ever play sports again, I see too many motocrossers go this route trying to get back fast....only to have them fail in a year or less. The right doctor is everything!

Doug
June 6, 2005 1:38 PM

As with Bobby, I also had grade III ACL and MCL tears. This happened in Nov. Now 7 mos later, I can walk, Won't try running, and my knee "clicks" a lot. I'm pretty sure I'm going with the surgery.

Stephanie
June 7, 2005 9:36 PM

I had my ACL and MCL done 1.5 years ago and I am doing great. My doctor did the hamstring graph surgery and for as lazy as I have been working out lately, my knee is great. My sister tore her ACL last weekend in a similar basketball incident. She is asking me which method I think she should go with. Does anyone know if there are advantages to one of the three methods? We are both very athletic and have highly muscular legs, but I have no idea if this is an advantage of one type of method over another. Can anyone provide any information? thanks! steph

Clem
June 16, 2005 1:01 PM

Hi everyone im Clem, Hard to believe but i ignored all the symtoms mybe because i was stubbern but my junior year in High school i tore my MCL or thats what my doc said. Did the therapy and it was a bit aginizing... Then got ready for my senior year and in a pre-season game i tore my other knee. I went to the same doc and he said i tore my MCL again...Well He only took x-rays ...thoughout these last 2 years i have been playing football again and my knee's pop all the time. Finally i went to a doc that my boss recommended me and well he did the correct procedures. MRI and all . Shurly enough i had both torn ACL on my knee's. I was a bit upset with my original doc. But i am glad to be on track and am having my surgery in 4 days ..I m a bit scared cuz i have never had something like this before. So you all be praying for me. I just hope it turns out 100% What has it been for you guys that have been throught the whole thing? Let me know. I want to know if your able to do the things u want to do. If ur ever down about it ..I usually think of Willis, McGahee Buffalo Bills. Or a Miami Ulumni..ya He went through Heck. Later everyone..let me knwo

Ken
June 22, 2005 10:32 AM

I had acl surgery 2 years ago (patella tendon graft). I just found out the the screw they inserted is starting to rise. It is creating a "bump" just beolow my knee that I am told will continue to grow as the screw rises. Anyone ever hear of or encounter this?

Christina
June 22, 2005 5:02 PM

I am going to have ACL reconstruction with a femoral-sciatic nerve block. Has anyone else had this done? Thanks, Christina

Bill
June 24, 2005 6:41 AM

I had the exact same repair procedure that Adam describes here. I snapped (hyperexytended) my knee while landing poorly from a running, jump, side kick in a martial arts class. Due to the extent of the damage to my meniscus and cartilage, I was not allowed to put any weight on my right leg for the first six weeks after surgery (9 weeks ago). I then spent a week on one crutch, and have been off crutches altogether for two weeks. I am still in physical therapy, probably for another 2 weeks or so. The surgeon has advised me that because of my age (47), my healing process may not be as good or complete as it would have been were I 20 or 30 years younger. My ultimate goal is to get back into martial arts, but I am hoping to at least be able to play golf again some time soon. I'd really like to hear more from Adam, or anyone else who has been through this a year or two ago, to learn what their status is now, a year or two later - especially if they are middle aged and involved in sports... Thanks for putting up and maintaining this site... Bill

Alea Morren
June 25, 2005 6:57 AM

I had ACL reconstuctive surgery 5 days ago. I tried to treat the entire experience like an adventure (I am an optimist). I mean, not everyone gets to experience an MRI, physiotherapy, or being conscious enough to watch your own knee operation. Of course, the night after the operation was something I never want to go through again, it is kind of nice to be forced to slow down and just be with yourself. There are lots of positives to this experience! Today my knee is still quite swollen, but the pain is very manageable. Surprisingly, I am able to walk around, even without crutches (though at the pace of a turtle). Crutches really help with pain management though. I respect all of you who return to work after one week! Fortunately, I am off for 5 weeks on short term disability. I didn't want to take any chances. So, I just wanted to share my experience with everyone. I encourage anyone going through this to remain openminded and accepting. This is a learning experience!

carl
July 2, 2005 12:20 PM

i tore my acl and tore my meniscus playing basketball when a huge guy came running down the court and fell on my knee. i had surgery 1 week ago. the first night i was ok in the hospital but when i got home the true pain started. when i tried to stand up it would burn horribly and blood would rush and form into a pocket in my knee . i had a donor tissue used for the surgery and i was having temperatures of 95 degrees for two days. a week later i was up on my feet walking with the brace and i have just started physical therapy

Cindy
July 5, 2005 1:58 PM

Hey there. I am 3 weeks post op on my ACL surgery. I had a complete tear from snow skiing in Feb but waited until June to do the surgery so swelling and flexibilty would come back on its own while I decided if I really needed the surgery. I'm now glad I did it. I went in on a Fri morning and was out at 1pm and sick until Sat from anethesia. Within hours of post surgery I was using a CPM machine to bend my knee for 8 hours a day until I reached 90 degrees which took only 4 days for me. I was off my crutches and driving in a week and started therapy within 8 days. My graft was a little different as he used half of my hamstring and half from a donor bank. I have had very little pain at all and only sleeping with my brace in the lock position and have full range during the day and can walk comfortably. I am not very young at 38 but I feel great.

Sarah
July 5, 2005 7:44 PM

i tore my acl my first soccer game of my senior year of high school. i was definatly stubborn because the DR. told me to stay off of it cause he was not sure what was wrong but i didnt listen. i kept practicing and playing on it. i ran track and i came to find out i tore my ACL completlya nd my miniscus too! so i had my surgey 1 week after i graduated!

francisco
July 12, 2005 11:02 PM

hi my name is francisco, i`m from Guatemala, i practice bmx, street rider, and i injure my knee, please they can give mi an advice, my pain comes from the left side of my knee, thanks your for time. francisco

Felipe
July 15, 2005 9:53 AM

I tore my acl playing indoor soccer too,i found out two days ago and the doctor told me i wasnt going to play sports for about a year. Im getting surgery in like a month. Ive been reading a lot of articles about acl reconstruction and injuries and they all tell me that the worst part is the post surgery recovery. but can anyone tell me if i will be able to play like I did before? will i have to wear a brace everytime i play? Is it easier to get reinjured or is your knee as strong as before? someone help me please

Andrea Nippard
July 18, 2005 3:32 PM

Hi, I had suregery 4.5 month ago on my ACL and meniscus. I had my surgery in the morning at 8am and was home by 4pm, with no pain nothing. Just a little bit of discomfort. I have many friends who have tore there ACL as well as they said each time they seem to play better then before. WIth regards to wearing a brace you will wear it when you practice and play for the first year forsure then at one year of surgery u can start practicing without and then say close too two years start playing without it again. Yes and people are right, the second part of this injury is the hardest.. you have to stay committed and focused and make sure you are healthy before you play again. I will be back play my sport in 1.5 months. I know many people hate this injury but i dont regret it, i've learn so much about my self and grown through this injury so much. Hope you guys all have good luck with it.

Mike
July 21, 2005 10:22 PM

It's been 15 days since my ACL surgery. I chose to go with the hamstring procedure and to be honest, this surgery has been much harder than I've ever expected. I started my PT a week after surgery, and was walking without crutches the next day. Me leg improves daily with flexibility and strength, yet it constantly aches and I can never find a comfortable position for it. Unfortunately, Im still taking pain pills 15 days after surgery to deal with this pain. Im not to happy about this, but I don't know what else to do. I just want to know when the constant aching goes away.

Rob
July 22, 2005 5:56 PM

I had acl reconstruction and meniscus repair in march. its about 4 months out. PT is a bit expensive so having a gym membership is a plus. At 4 months, the knee is still a bit swollen and the muscles are still weak, at this time be sure not to put too much pressure and over stress, cause then there is the possibility of pain, usually a sharp sting or soreness.

Marty
July 24, 2005 11:17 AM

I tore my ACL playing soccer in June. It felt like an electric shock diagonally accross my right knee and dropped me to the ground very quickly. There was no popping noise. It wasn't the result of a sharp turn. I was just running gradually in a right hand curve to go back to our side of the field. I was walking on it fine within a week but decided to have surgery so that I could continue to ski and play soccer even though I'm 45. I had the hamstring graft procedure on 7/12/05. The surgery was a couple hours and included anesthesia and a femoral block. I don't think the block worked fully and they gave me intravenous pain medicine afterward until the pain subsided. The whole sugical process was out patient and I was home after 4 hours. The narcotic pain pills made me sick and I used motrin and alieve instead. There wasn't that much swelling until 4 days later when I used it too much(I thought I was cured) and then it swelled up the size of a Cantaloupe. I'm being much more careful now and things are a lot easier because the doctor put me in a brace that flexes. It's been really hard to sleep and I often times take the brace off after an hour of trying to sleep with it on. It's been 12 days now and I started PT about 9 days after surgery. The joint is very stiff but every day there is imrovement. I'm weaning myself off the crutches but I still have to take a lot of motrin and alieve. Thanks for this web site. The doctors can't spend that much time with you so it's good to hear other peoples experiences.

lana
July 25, 2005 3:27 PM

I tore my left ACL 10 years ago.. after about 6mo I was playing Division 1 college soccer again and (knock on wood,) have never had any troubles with my left leg. But... About 2 months ago, i tore my right ACL + other ligaments/ miniscus. I've had more and more trouble and setbacks with this recent surgery than the previous one. Swelling being the #1 issue. Needless to say, this sucks.

Gerry Wicht
July 28, 2005 8:17 PM

I will be going for ACL reconstructive surgery on the 11th of August. Right now, the time before the surgery, I find myself a little nervous about getting the procedure done. It's been 3 years since I tore it playing soccer, and just in the past years has there been any discomfort and pain in certain things that I do. I am a firefighter, and thus far, the tear has not interfered with my job, so I am asking myself, why should I have this done now. If anyone can give me some encouragement it would help a lot.

Nicole
July 30, 2005 4:04 PM

hey everyone i tore my acl and my mcl and some cartilage i have to get surgery in a few weeks and im really woried they told me i cant play basketball in high school im really upset. I was wondering if anyone could email me Nikki09@charter.net if they would give me pointers on surgery for my acl thanks nikki Abbott

Carly
August 4, 2005 10:36 AM

Feb 13th - On the last ski run of the day I fell backwards in powder. My binding didn't release and my knee "popped". The leg kept giving out and the knee was very swollen. After months running around to different doctors I had surgery on the 4th of May. My pain was intense, I had never had a surgery before. At about weak 3 my leg was still not bending very good, so my therapist said we might have to go back in -- I wasn't having any of that. The next week I layed on my stomach and had my boyfriend push my leg until scar tissue broke. It hurt, but being able to move my leg was worth it. I'm going to the gym at least 5 times a week and doing 45 minutes of cardio and lifting now. My leg feels so much better, the surgery was worth the pain. The day I started to light jog again, I almost cried from happiness. It's so nice to get back the active lifestyle I love.

Julie
August 6, 2005 12:18 AM

Hi, I'm Julie. I'm so glad I found your website Adam, and here's my story. I'm 42 years old and very active have 3 kids age 7,15 & 18. I love to play volleyball and softball almost year round. last October I fell at work, hands full, landed on both knees on a tile floor. the left knee was ok, the right knee, I hit the inside of my knee cap on the floor.(so you know where that puts the rest of my leg) bent along side of me. I tore the miniscus and the acl. In January the doctor scoped it fixed the miniscus, and thought the acl would heal on it's own. so I did PT for almost 4 months and still had problems with it popping and grinding (worse than before the miniscus repair). But because I was having pain where the ligaments attach to the tib-fib heads, The doctor told me he wasn't quite sure how to fix it, and put me on permenant light duty at work. He said I might just have to learn to live with it. NOT AN OPTION! well on my last doctor's appt. two weeks ago, numerous x-rays and 3 mri's later, he checked the acl again and found that because the acl was still loose, that's what was causing the rest on my leg to hurt. so now he's going to go in and fix the acl. he wants to use an allograft. I'm not looking forward to another surgery but can't wait to play catch with my 7 year old and get my quality of life back! And yes Jenn there are other stupid doctors out there!

Mallory
August 7, 2005 9:23 PM

I tore my ACL and meniscus in the 7th grade playing basketball. Here I am about to go into my 6th knee surgery at the ripe age of 18. Well I have finally wised up and decided to research all my possibilities. I have already had the patellar tendon put in and then I had a cadaver and now they want to use my hamstring. Hopefully that will work. But even with all these surgeries I have found one good thing out. I found out that I want to be a physical therapist. Your site helped me see what I will be getting into with the hamstring surgery. Thank you

Nicholas Miller
August 8, 2005 9:12 AM

I am a 38 year old male who had an acl repair on June 14, 2005, so I am about 8 weeks into my recovery now. I twisted my knee on the basketball court, fell, and heard a pop. I did the patellar graft repair. I had minimal pain after the surgery, only took pain medication to sleep at night, and was walking around with a crutch and brace the day after the surgery. I lost the crutch after a day, and the brace in three or four days. I started PT on day 6, and there has been steady improvement since then. My biggest challenges has been to find time to sit still and raise the leg to help the swelling go down. My range of motion return was progressing slowly due to swelling, but in the last two weeks, it has subsided a great deal, and I am getting better flexion (135 degrees or so). It has improved quite dramatically in the last week or two, I am getting a lot of strength back and walking better. I am cleared to ride my bike, and went for a vigorous ten-miler a few days ago. I also swim. I am anxious to get back to basketball and soccer, but am told that must wait until 5 or 6 months out. I also surf, but that will probably have to wait nearly that long as well. Just continuing to be reasonably faithful with the PT exercises and weights. Don't want to have to go through this again.

david
August 12, 2005 4:04 PM

hey, i had acl hammy surgery done on my right knee four years ago and after a long recovery, i went back to playing soccer. after a year and a half of soccer on three teams, i tore my left knee. i just had my left knee operation two and a half weeks ago. i just wanted to say that this operation has been far worse in terms of recovery and pain as compaired to my first encounter. i have been much more dependent on crutches and have been in much more pain that the last time. every situation is different and everyone heals differently. good luck to all of you and me ha. thanks to the site operator, sites like this make being in this crumby situation much more bearable. dave

yumei
August 14, 2005 3:50 PM

it really helpful to read the stories to get the inspiration and looking forward. I had meniscus repair and ACL reconsturction 12 days ago. I am still on 2 crutches, pain and swelling is issue.I want to go back to CHina to take my 20 month son back, but I am not sure If I can do it.

stacey
August 18, 2005 3:01 PM

i completely tore my acl, tore my medial collateral ligament and meniscus 5 months ago. i have had mri scans but that is all. i am due to have physio and then reconstructive surgery on my acl. i am a 18 year old female from england and on reading this article i feel less nervous about undergoing this operation. However, i would like to know if you where able to return to football (soccer),

Joey
August 19, 2005 8:39 PM

I had an ACL replacement (Cadaver Ligament), interior meniscus repair, and lateral miniscus reconstruction. I had the surgery done August 4th 2005. I had to stay over in the hospital for one night and was back home the next afternoon. They sent me home with a CPM machine (a machine that helps you move your knee to varying degrees). The goal is to get to 90 degrees within 15 days. I personally was allowed to put 50% of my weight on my knee after surgery, but was told to walk with crutches, and not to bend my knee passed 90 degrees. The doctor says that I will have to wait about 8 or 9 months to be able to play sports again. Therapy consists of getting all of the muscles surrounding your knee strong so that you can walk, as well as getting your range of motion back (flexion & extension). I would say that if you want a less painful and faster recovery, you might want to go with the allograft like I did. According to my doctor, the only negative is the possibility of infection, or the body rejecting the allograft. The chances by the way are 1 in 1,000,000. If you opt to use one of your own ligaments, your recovery will be a little longer, and rehab might be a little more painful. But if you are considering the surgery and are on the fence about it, I defenitley recommend that you just do it. There defenitley will be pain, but if you rehab hard and have a good surgeon you should be fine. I would recommend my doctor here in Miami, FL. but I don't want this to sound like an advertisement. Lets just say that he has perofrmed surgery on some very prominent athletes in this city.

Riva
August 21, 2005 6:16 AM

I tore my ACL playing flag football this August. I'm 35 but have always been active in softball, basketball and flag football since junior high. I am nervous about the surgery mostly because of the long road it takes to get back to just normal let along getting back to the high level of physical fitness I have been in most my life. I also worry because I husband is in the Middle East. I have two teenagers and a three year old. I worry about an overnight stay, being able to deal with pain if I can't medicate myself enough with my little one at home, not to mention mobility issues for the first few weeks. All my family live rather far away. Pray me success.

garret
August 22, 2005 10:44 PM

AMAZING. i am 39. tore my ACL, damaged meniscus & torn cartilage on june 3rd in soccer match. surgery july 20. within 3 days i was walking without crutches. one month post surgery i have full range of motion and can almost jog already. i swim at least 1/2 mile per day. my recovery has been extraordinary, but it can happen to you too! just believe and push yourself as hard as ever.

geraldo villarreal
August 23, 2005 6:37 AM

I'm 31 years old and I tore my acl in half, along with tearing my mcl playing soccer over a year ago. I had the surgery to repair them on July 29, 2004. I also heard a hugo popping noise and then went right to the ground. Guys on the other side of the field said they heard the noise also. The surgery wasn't that bad, it was the recovery that was a long process. I was walking 1 day after surgery, but very slowly and carefully. I did 3 weeks of physical therapy at which point my therapist felt I made significant progress to be released. At about 4 months, I was able to walk okay again. I still could not run because I would feel a pinch in my right knee. At about 9 months I could run for short lengths of time, maybe about 2 minutes or so. I am now able to run fine, however, I still feel that I am not 100% recovered yet. I am still not able to sit on the ground with both my legs right under me. My right knee feels as though it is pulling to much to stretch that far. If you have the surgery to fix your injury, just understand that you will lose a lot of your muscle mass in that leg and calf, along with months of recovery time. All things heal with time, be patient.

Bridget
August 25, 2005 11:54 AM

I had ACL reconstruction on August 12, 2005, using an allograft, cadeaver graft, and I am doing great. I have only had one physical therapy appointment so far, yesterday, and I am already seeing a marked improvement in my walking. I had no other damage in my joint and just had the ACL done. My suggestion to anyone going in for surgery is to get your muscles in the leg to be operated on in great shape, you will lose muscle strength after surgery and this will definently help in your recovery post-op. The hard work truly is in the physical therapy after surgery, sugery is the easy part, but I would do it all over again and look forward to having a stable knee in the near future after completing rehab.

JD
August 25, 2005 12:09 PM

I tore my ACL and both my meniscus about a month and a half ago, and had surgery almost 3 weeks ago. Stacey, I didn't tear my MCL, so don't know too much about that, but I used my patella tendon for my ACL, and am doing really well. I can almost bend my knee all the way, and do not have constant unbearable pain. Im a female and Im 15, I hope to be back in sports in 6 months. For me the physical part is easy, but the mental part is a killer!

kim s
August 25, 2005 4:49 PM

Hello, well i am four days after acl surgery and minisscous taken out, pain is almost gone, tryng not o take pain medication, but my foot is still swelling and a little blue, my question is should i be putting weight on it and what about the swelling can i do? any advise would be great

james
August 26, 2005 10:13 PM

I ruptured my acl 7 months ago skateboarding,didnt realise,got p.t for a month or so then got back on my skateboard.Thought there was something more wrong then just a few torn ligiments that my p.t said.I skated for another two months feeling uncomfortable and uneasy about it but thinking it was just my mind as the p.t said i was ok.Then trying a trick i had done many times before,oouch my knee gave away! 2 days out of my op and im stoked i went to see a specialist which i should of done 1st time around..my op went real well,finally i can put my mind at rest and focus on recovery

s0pran0s
August 31, 2005 11:53 AM

I had ACL surgery 8 weeks ago, and boy does it suck! :) -- I tore my ACL way back in 1994 when I was in the Army...but never had surgery, since I was able to do most things just fine...but after about the 15th time my knee popped out of socket, I decided it was time. At first I would have to be playing some sort of sport before it would pop-out..but in the last few years it would come out when I would turn the corner walking to the bathroom...stepping off a bus...jumping like 12 inches off the ground to grab a rebound when I was playing basketball with 4th graders! After lying on the playground in crazy pain...I decided this is enough! I'm 30 years old, athletic, and I get injured playing with 4th graders! :) I went with the patella tendon option...no way was I going to put shit from a dead person in my body....and the hamstring option seemed like a bad idea...I didn't want to worry about popping my hamstring once my knee healed. I was sent home like 2 hours after surgery! And man is that bullshit! They should give you at least 1 day to recover, so you can at least get shot up with great drugs through your IV to help deal with the pain. Because they gave me Percocet, which is about as strong as the painkillers come (even though I prefer Vicodin since it gives you a better buzz) :) -- but I was in the WORST PAIN OF MY LIFE the first 2 nights...the first night I was popping a Percocet every hour, and it did NOTHING! Well maybe it kept me from crying, but it seemed to have 0 effect on the pain. By day 3 I was walking up and down stairs...and by the end of week one I took my silly brace off. It's been exactly 2 months since surgery and things are pretty cool now. I can walk with out a limp, and I have really no pain. I still have fluid in my knee that won't go away...but I only iced my knee like one day at the very beginning...so the fluid is my fault. I went to 5 PT sessions and that was cool...my PT lady was super hot...so that was fun. I could bend my leg 160 degrees like 3 weeks ago, which is what a normal person that's never had ACL surgery can do...now I can get my heel to even touch my ass. I try to run every once in awhile for like 20 yards...and that is kind of tough. My patella tendon in front still seems very tight..like it could just rip if I ran for more than 20 yards. I was told within 2 months I could be playing softball and shit like that...but I think it will be a total of 6 months, before I could do something like that. Hopefully this was all worth it...because as of now, I really don't know if I would do it all over again. But I'm sure I will be very glad I did once I can run again, and my knee doesn't pop out every month! Hope this helps... ~s0pran0s p.s. My doctor refilled my Percocet 3 times...and I got refills on my Vicodin like 8 times!! Even though I really didn't need them for pain after like week 2...it was a great opportunity, to get hooked up! I mean how could I not take advantage of being able to get 45 Vicodin for $6!!! I could sell 2 pills for that much! :)

Kathy Botard
August 31, 2005 12:46 PM

My son is in need of ACL after a high school football game. When I asked the Doctor which surgery he would do if it were his son, and he said the patella. I know it is the most painful for rehab, but other than that, I don't know much. Has anyone had the patella acl replacement? My son is a Jr. in h.s. and wants to play football his senior year. THank you

Gary Brenner
September 1, 2005 10:15 AM

ok, im 17 years old and and going to be a senior in HS. i found out i tore my ACL a few days ago, its been a week and a few days since i tore it at football practice and i cant sit out my senior year. so i decided to take physical therapy and get a knee brace for the last 5-6 games of my HS career and wait to get surgery at the end of the season in the begining of december. ne one ne thoughts on this? since most of u have had experience with this type or surgery.

Edwardson
September 3, 2005 9:14 AM

I have read many cases above and am surprised that most seem to recover pretty well shortly after surgery. I had an ACL reconstruction(Hamstring tissue) with meniscus repair on August 26 by a prominent NYU surgeon. I am 8 days into recovery period. Unlike most people, I am still in much pain. Pain that feels like nerve related because it shoots in and around the knee and the shin area. Vicodin does not help much...enduring sleepless nights. Bumping up to oxycodone for a stronger prescription. My pre-surgical PT sessions were very good and helpful. I was able to walk on my own. I expected to get back on my feet a week after surgery but I am nowhere close to that yet. I supposed everyone heals very differently at their own pace.

Andre
September 3, 2005 2:18 PM

I tore my ACL while playing a soccer game June 5th 2005, I was playing defence and I was one-on-one with a forward. He tried to get around me so I had my right foot planted and turned hard to the left, needless to say the artificial turf gave to much traction and my right leg didn't want to turn, but my body did. I collpased in pain I didn't know exists. I attended PT the next day where I was told that it looked as if i had torn my ACL and meniscus. Once the swelling had almost vanishe dit was confirmed that I had indeed torn the previosly mentioned. I went for surgery on August 31, 2005. The surgery went fine, but I continued to bleed a fair amount for 2 days after surgery, this made my mom aswell as myself rather nervous. It is now 4 days after surgery and I am already walking around without crutches, and i have roughly 90 degrees range of motion. I plan to start PT for recovery within a week. I know that surgery was no doubt the best way for a 16 year old to go, I didn't want a bad knee to slow me down for the rest of my life. I would just like to thank my surgeon, Dr. Bob McCormack who did nothing but an excellent job. I live in Vancouver Canada and would love to hear from other people who also have also had their ACL torn. mountain_biker_dude400@msn.com

Robyn
September 6, 2005 6:19 PM

I tore my acl on september the first 2005. Iwas told i was gonna have to have surgery after 3 weeks of rehab. Then intense rehab after my surgery. The doctor said I'll be back to the level of activities I was in about a 5 to 6 months.

Chad
September 7, 2005 12:59 PM

Hey all, I tore my ACL playing basketball right before graduation in May 2005. I finally decided to have the surgery because I am only 22 years old and feel I have many years of sports ahead of me. I had surgery on Sept 1, 2005 so its only been a week since surgery. I feel I am recovering well though. Pain is minimal, and I will be on crutches for about 3 weeks. Luckily I was able to get off of work for the whole week following surgery. I actually went with the hamstring graft. So I hope I make a quick recovery. Sweeling is down, and I am constantly doing quad flexes. If anyone wants to ask me about my surgery, just go to my myspace website, and send me a message.

Melanie
September 7, 2005 3:02 PM

I tore mine (+ meniscus) 3 years ago and my doctor did the surgery in two parts: meniscus + recover, then ACL + recover. I did relatively well and as a competitive female athlete eager to get back on the field, I pushed myself pretty darn hard. A word of caution though - pay attention to your doctor and don't push TOO hard; listen to your body. At this point, I may be having my ACL RE-reconstructed because it seems to be too loose and I'm once again having torn cartilage incidents. Work hard and be optimistic, but be careful or you may pay for it later!

Chris d
September 8, 2005 12:31 PM

2 surgeries in 3 months. Well lets start it like this. I am a genius! I tore my knee playing high level rugby and hit the ground like a screaming 4 year old girl after planting my leg for a change of direction. My leg just buckled an I thought I was shot. I never felt pain like this before. I had the cadaver eplacement 1 month later and was out of commission for 3 days. Off crutches after a week and out of the brace after 2 weeks. I was well on my way back to the field. I was 2 and a half months out of surgery and having therapy and exercises 3 to 4 times a week. I even was on growth hormones and feeling stronger than ever. First training session back I was running and tackling like i never missed a beat. Then, a slight step and change of pace and it went again. I screamed louder and harder than the first time. Our field is surrounded by 4 other soccer fields with approximately 500 people. I stopped everyones game with my high pitched girly noises. I limped away after 10 minutes of sobbing adn then the next day back to the surgeon. 2 weeks later I was under the knife again. In less than one day I was off crutches. 3 days off the brace and now 3 weeks out I am walking perfectly. My moral of the stroy is dont come back too early even if you think your body is good. You cant feel the tendon. Also, get a pyhsiotherapist who is good. Not one who clears you to return after 2 and a half monhts. Hence why I now have a new therapist. I am taking 6 months off atleast. I do recommend the cadaver graft. Fasty recovery and no extra pain.

Yvette
September 8, 2005 2:50 PM

I had surgery almost six months ago and I believe my recovery went well. My doctor told me I can go back to playing soccer again, but I think I still need to get it stronger so that I can play again. Those of you who just had surgery, hang on and work hard. It is all worth it.

susan
September 8, 2005 4:36 PM

Hey there! I had the hamstring recontrustive surgury after tearing my ACL skiing. I fell..my knees kept going but my feet stopped. I will never forget the POP I heard as I went down. But I am know 5 weeks post surgury and doing all right. I took the brace off last week and am just using a cane and a tensor. Only problem is the straighting ... I still walk with a very bent knee. However I do know someone who did not have othroscopic surgury to repair his tear and he was still limping with a cane after 10 WEEKS!! So I feel lucky!

mike
September 10, 2005 12:59 PM

i had acl reconstructive surgery about 4 weeks ago i can walk with out cruches about 90% with out a limp i still feel pain however in the front of my knee the doctor said its going to be faster becouse im 14

Justin
September 10, 2005 5:52 PM

Hey. On August 26th 2004, I was playing soccer for my high school in my second game. I was running to a ball and I stepped wrong and then I got hit from behind by a player from the opposite team. I felt a little pain and I heard a pop, it didnt hurt too bad and I was walking around and everything...no swelling at all. I figured I just hyperextented my knee so I went to practice the next monday. I had the ball and I tried to cut and then I heard a louder pop and it hurt even more this time. At this point I knew something was wrong so I went to a local orthopedic. He looked at my knee did some test and was almost sure that I tore my acl. I had an MRI a few weeks later and thats when I was told I tore my acl. My doctor wanted to do surgery but the MRI also proved that I had not finished growing yet. My doctor didnt feel comfortable doing surgery and disrupting my growth plates so he postponed it. It was finally March 9th 2005 when I got surgery. Surgery went real well and i didnt have any problems with swelling or pain. I have worked hard and gone to PT pretty religiously. I should be cleared within a few to play 100%. A warning dont push it too hard. My friend pushed and pushed herself and she is now dealing with another bad knee with continuous swelling.

Matt Otto
September 12, 2005 12:00 AM

I am 37 years old and partially tore my left ACL playing rugby 6 months ago. After some recovery and rest I resumed play (probably way too early as I kept hearing more popping sounds all the time) and then finally fully ruptured it last month just playing touch. I had the hamstring graft and had surgery in Bangkok as I am an expat in Hanoi. The Dr said I had also damaged cartlidge under my patella and my lateral mensicus. I felt quite strong after surgery and thought I'd be off the crutches within a week. Upon returning home I got very ill with high fever, sweats, headache and chills which lasted over a week. Not sure if this is post surgery problem or just a case of the bad Asian flu. Its been nearly 3 weeks since surgery and my knee is still huge and I'm still on crutches. You guys are lucky you have PTs in the States. I have to look this stuff on the web to help myself out. Thanks though, it has all helped. Hopefully, I will be back on the pitch next year! Matt Otto Hanoi, Vietnam

jimmy johnston
September 12, 2005 8:36 AM

my surgery took 45 min. i was able to jog slowly 3 weeks after my reconstructive ACL surgery. My doctor out of san antonio TX dr. D.S --- he is the best!!

Randy
September 14, 2005 11:59 PM

I have a grade 3 tear to my ACL and I have my surgery in 3 days.... How worried should I be... cuz I'm pretty scared right now.. btw.. I"m 24 - baqsketball injury, pivoting, top half turned.... bottowm half didn't.. POP

Xay
September 15, 2005 12:25 PM

Hey! It's awesome to hear that everyone can share their experiences here. I know a few of us were scared when we heard that *POP* and then were told that we had torn our ACLs. I torn mine playing basketball and was really worried because I knew it was a career ending injury for a lot of people. I had it repaired and had a miniscus removed about 3 months ago. I can walk at about %75 with a little limp. My advice is to DO YOUR EXERCISES!!! I have to admit I don't do mine enough. I still don't have full extension and am still working on it. I think I might be depending on my right knee too much because it's starting to have pain. Again, DO YOUR EXERCISES!!! I need to take my own advice also. Good luck to you all and thanks for all the info.

Kaylee
September 16, 2005 3:24 PM

Hi! I tore my ACL October 9, 2004, the game before sectionals of my junior year in high school. I was captain of the team and it was absolutely devastating. I was running with the ball, and went to pivot and cut back. My entire body moved, except for my leg that was planted on the ball. I heard a pop, and then was on the ground. My knee swelled immediately, and that was the end of soccer season needless to say. November 11th I had my surgery, and less that 6 months later, I was back on the soccer field. I'm a senior now, and am playing in my final high school season. I'm not completely there yet...but by the end of the season I hope to be at my peak! P.S. congrats to all that have come back from this injury..it's really great and encouraging to hear. And for those who are working towards that point...you'll get there...keep working hard.

suhel
September 17, 2005 4:40 AM

hey!! i just went thru an acl surgery after havin twisted my knee and hearing a pop while at practise with my college teammates. i m 72days old as of now frm surgery and am pretty much normal while walking and sitting.well a lil bit of bad luck was dat i had d ACL injury just days before i was 2 start practice with a pro-soccer club. it does turn 2 b quite frustrating but with d help of my coaches and physio feel better equiped 2 b on d team d cumming season... so all of ull just dont rush in2 things and happy recovery 2 all of ull.

Mike
September 19, 2005 6:32 PM

Hey, everyone I just recently tore/streched (docs aint sure yet) colliding with a goalkeeper. I play soccer and run Varsity indoor and outdoor track and currently I am a Sophomore are a High School. I am totaly devasted, and emotionally I am a mess. I struggle to get through this because in my mind I know how much more I could have acquired without this injury. Does anyone have some hopefull stories or good excersises and some non worry surgery advices. Ty, congrats to all, Mike

Pete
September 20, 2005 9:40 PM

There is no sugar coating the truth, ACL surgery sucks bad. I've had the pleasure of getting my second patella harvest procedure so I have matching knees. For who are going into surgery for the first time for ACL who play sports. Get the patella procedure and you'll be good to go. I was on the field running and kicking the ball after four months, competitive play in 6-7 months and back to nearly normal about a year later. Unfortunately I only had a fun year back until I tore the other one. Anyway after the first surgery, I could kick the soccer ball well past the half mark on the field so I bounced back well. It was dumb luck to get a second identical injury. I'm uncertain about playing soccer with two reconstructed knees, perhaps someone has some good news about two procedures?

chris
September 22, 2005 5:56 PM

its not something to be scared of. Its not that bad, the meds really help out. The first few days feel like an eternity because you really cant do anything but lay down and watch TV. but then it gets better.. I was walking (with pain) in 10 days its not bad... gettin it done is smart in the long run

sabra
September 22, 2005 7:04 PM

Hey Mike! I know what you are going through and i was the exact same way. Im a sophmore in high school and run track and cross country. I tore my acl playing soccer about 6 months ago. Ive already been running track for about 2 months and my knee feels great! I think you have nothing to worry about. :)

Patrick
September 23, 2005 11:17 AM

Just found this site and thought i would tell my story. Last thursday during a soccer game I tore my ACL. The injury occured when i pivoted on my right leg. My ancle remained in a pot hole in the ground while my knee continued. The feeling of bone on bone and the final pop was unlike anything I have exprienced. Like most injured soccer players I bumbled to the ground in excrutiating pain. I was unable to bend or sraighten my leg. I spoke with a sports injury specialist the next day who informed me that my soccer career will be on hold for 12-15 months. Not the news I was expecting to hear. So Im currently in Physio and attempting to get off these damned crutches full time. Im still clinging to the hope that the damage is not as serious as originnaly assessed. Hopefully surgery wont be needed. If it does, im praying that i can sneak in as quick as possible. Because I dont know if i can keep myself from playing sports for 15 months. Anywho, I just felt like adding my injury story to this list. Thanks

Ronald
September 24, 2005 7:22 AM

hi to all!!! I tore my ACL last May 08, 2004 during our 5-a-side soccer tournament here in the philippines. jumping to head the ball, my right leg which is fully extended was clipped by my oppenents left leg... as when i land, my knee just POPED!!! it immediately swell. it really sucked that after the tournament in our place... we were invited to play at a tournament at Nueva Vizcaya, (april 2004) that i could'nt play... instead, i coached our team and won the title. i've undergone my surgery last july 2004, the surgeon took a part of my patella and replaced my raptured ACL... it took me 2 months before i can walk without braces... after 10 days of theraphy, my knee can now do a full flexion... and after that, i wasn't able to go to extensive theraphy anymore... my knee still hurts, but despite of that, i still manage to play soccer every saturday afternoon. months have passed, when we were invited again to play at nueva vizcaya (April 2005), i played for a brief moment... (5 minutes). and we won the title again. now, the reason i'm sharing this is that i need some help regarding exercise to strengthen my kness and leg muscle. actually it still really hurts... pls help me.. tnx.

Dave L
September 26, 2005 8:28 AM

Hello, My MRI results show a completely torn ACL and partial MCL and some meniscus damage. I am lined up to see a very reputable orthopaedic surgeon in 4 to 6 months and then may have to wait 4 to 12 months for surgery. Any advice on waiting to see a reputable surgeon or getting in to see any surgeon asap. Does the quality of the surgery effect the rehab time?

Gloria
September 26, 2005 9:15 AM

My SO had ACL reconstruction surgery on Aug. 10, 2005. His recovery has gone pretty smoothly but the not being able to run is just killing him. His surgeon and PT want to limit his bike riding (indoor) to only 30 minutes per session. How soon did other folks with repaired ACLs get back to running on a treadmill indoors? Also, how did you control weight gain? He eats like a bird but still feels like he is gaining weight. Any advice will help! Thank you.

Steve
September 26, 2005 12:51 PM

I am a 43 year old with 2 awesome sons. My oldest was back home from college for his 20th birthday. We, my sons and I, love to wakeboard and that is what he wanted to do the Saturday before his birthday. We went to the river where we have wakeboarded for the last 7or 8 years. We took turns showing off for each other, my oldest son and I were just trying to stay up with my 15 year old who shows us both up on the water. I gapped the wake like I have done a 100 times before and when I landed I heard a pop simultaneous to the board hitting the water. The boys came back around in the boat and asked why I had let go. I had no movement in my lower left leg. I had to have them get in the water and help me get the binding off of my foot. I went to the Emergency Room that afternoon and they did x-rays that showed no damage but the doctor believed I had torn my acl. I saw the orthopedic surgeon on Monday and he set up an MRI for Wednesday and another appointment to review the MRI on Thursday. My ACL was shredded. I was very concerned about my physical future. I am a Firefighter with 23 years on the job and would really like to make 30. My doctor said my knee would be as good as new 6 months post surgery. I had my surgery the following day. My surgery lasted 3.5 hours. I had the patella replacement. I also had torn meniscus. I pretty much stayed in bed for the next couple of days only getting up to eat and use the rest room. They had to leave the tourniquet on longer than expected and my left foot was numb without feeling for the first 3 days. I had my surgery on Friday and started P.T. on Monday. I did not drive myself for the first 4 days even though I believe I could have after day 3. I pushed myself daily. I went to P.T. every day for the first 2 weeks and 3 times a week for the next 2. I still ice my knee daily after exercise to keep the swelling down. I am able to walk without limping and started back light duty today. I hope to be back on the Fire Truck within a month to 6 weeks. I am incredibly anxious to be back at the station and doing the things I love, but I don't want to damage my knee prior to it healing enough to handle the activity I impose upon it. My mom was a tremendous help the first week after surgery and I am sure I would not bee where I am now if I wouldn't have had here help those first few days.

Paul
October 3, 2005 12:53 PM

After Reading some of these enteries, I feel my injury isn't half bad. I just had my ACL Reconstrive Surgery 2 weeks to the day. My Range of motion is quite good, but unable to fully weight bear. Doing my excercises while my leg still hurts. I injured my leg 5 months ago. Canadian HealthCare takes a long time. I'm a Geotech Driller and due to my injury I haven't worked since my injury. I'm a vary active 22 year old, and I know I should be in school, but Haven't been able to affod it. (reason for workin in the drilling industry) But I'm starting to get quite depressed, and havin no desire to do anything beside physio. What should I do with my time.?

Adam
October 4, 2005 9:22 AM

I'm 24 years old and just had ACL reconstruction on 9/20/05 stemming from an injury in 2004. Per the doctor's advice, the replacement was done with a piece of my hamstring. I also had the "nerve-block" for the surgery. It's been two weeks since the surgery ... here's what advice I have ... the nerve block is a pretty good option, they do this about a half hour before surgery via an injection in the upper leg. They say it lasts for upwards of 12 hours, which it does ... don't wait for the nerve block to weaken b4 taking pain pills. I had trouble sleeping the first night b/c the pills (percaset) took awhile to load in my body ... so start those earlier even if you don't need them yet ... b/c you won't know it b/c the nerve block is still working so it's good to get a couple dosages of pain medicine in your system during the course of the day post-surgery. Showering - - kinda annoying considering the soft brace that goes from hamstring to calf. One suggestion ... use plastic cling-wrap (what you use with food) ... and wrap the leg over and over again ... at least that way you can shower and keep what needs to stay dry ... dry. Of course, be careful getting in/out of shower ... keep crutches nearby. I've been off of crutches for about 5 days and have been consistently using a wrap/Ace bandage around my knee. I pretty much walk without a limp, but still have difficulty going up/down stairs at a normal pace. I still ice when needed to get the swelling in the knee down. As of yesterday, the doctor has liked my progress.

Lisa
October 8, 2005 3:49 PM

Hi, I'm due to get surgery for my ACL on the 19 this week. I also twisted my planted knee then heard and felt the "pop." I'm not getting a nerve block, instead something they're putting in my IV think. My question is, has anyone had to have a machine strapped to their knee and have pain med pumped in for a few days after? That's what my surgeon said he's going to do. Also, what's the pain level and your reaction to Vicadon post surgery? Please help, very nervous!

Linh
October 10, 2005 6:42 PM

I just had ACL surgery on Oct. 6th. The initial injury was about 7 years ago but there was no tear. On Sept 14th I went out and played tennis and "pop". They used my patellar tendon for the ACL graft. I also had meniscus damage. I thought I wouldn't be in much pain but the first 2 days were quite painful. I had 2 percocet every 3-4 hours. That works well and the cold therapy machine is nice. I stayed home for 3 days and today I went around on crutches for a while and by the afternoon there was some swelling towards my ankle and I'm laying here with the cold therapy hoping I just didn't put myself in reverse. The doctor said I would be on crutches for only a week but I think it may be longer. It's very awkward to walk around with them. The surgery took only a couple hours and I think the anesthesiologist did a really good job of minimizing the post nausea. I really didn't have any. I have an 18 month old so it's hard to tell her "no- Mommy can't hold you" however I am embracing the time for mandatory rest and sleep. I've read two books and my confidence in my husband's parenting ability is at an all-time high. I'm just excited that my knee will be better and that I'll be able to resume an active lifestyle. Also the technology nowadays with arthroscopy is amazing and the recovery is nothing like it used to be. I know now that I never want anything like this to happen again so I will take care of myself, do pilates to build my muscle strength and try to remember I'm no longer 18. Wishing everyone health and a speedy recovery.

Cora
October 11, 2005 12:51 PM

I had ACL surgery on June 13 so I am about 4 1/2 months out. It is hard and it does hurt but you just have to keep on working. I did it in a soccer game, I only had three more in the high school season. Since the college women's soccer is in the fall I am unable to play this year. But you have to keep working hard to make sure that once you are cleared you will be ready. My surgery type was the petlla graph, and so far it has worked out fine. I was able to walk the next day but the day after that I needed my crutches and couldn't even take a step with out them. I had crutches for about two weeks and the brace for about 5 weeks. It is important to push your self with the rehab but don't over do it so you tear it again. The worst thing the first few weeks was that my mom would put my crutchs out of my reach so I would have to call for her, I hated that but she didn't want me moving more than I had to. But I would still try and reach my crutches which was not a good idea, I almost feel a couple of times. Do not be afraid to ask for help because you will need it and without it you could really hurt yourself. The exercises that the PT will give you are hard, but seem like they should be easy, don't get discouraged if you are unable to complete them they are hard and it will take time. Also, use your CPM machine it really helps move things along. It feels really good the first few days to have you leg in it so it doesn't stiffen up. Even though I am 4 months out I still feel pain in my knee but you learn when the pain is just from it being sore are when you really need to watch what you are doing. I have just started running on a tredmill and jumping. It is scary to move on to each next stage, you are excited because that means you are one month closer but scared because you know how easy it is to tear it again and are scared that you will have to go through this again. Even if you did tear your acl at least you did it when they have the ability to fix it. Years ago, it was a career ending injury today we can come back even though recovery is long at least we have it.

Kelly
October 11, 2005 5:27 PM

I'm only 15 years old and I'm getting surgury Nov.2 and i'm getting the whole hamstring replacement. Has anyone been affected to not play sports anymore? and from a scale of 1 - 10 what is the pain level?

Karen
October 12, 2005 8:58 AM

It's so nice to hear everyone's experiences. I just had ACL reconstruction on 10/05/05 and while the first several days were rough I am now feeling much better. I too had the patellar tendon graft and have 14 staples in my knee. I stopped taking medications (oxycontin and hydrocodone) two days after surgery because I was feeling so nauseaus. Ibuprofen seems to be working well. I tried to put weight on the leg with crutches a few days after but felt that my knee wanted to buckle on me so I laid off but today I seem to be doing much better. I have my first physical therapy tomorrow and while I am not looking forward to the pain and frustrations I am looking forward to regaining my strength and getting around more. I do want to know if you can give me your opinions....I had surgery a week ago and will be going to police academy in January which involves jogging a mile and a half 2-3 times a week...no other strenuous exercises except pushups and situps. Do you think it realistic for me to think I can make it? My Dr. seems to think so but I want to get the opinion of others who have had this surgery. Hang in there and know that there are many that are in the same boat you we are. That helps me and encourages me to push through this. Take Care!

Mark
October 12, 2005 1:03 PM

I had my acl done 3 weeks ago tommorow. After surgery Had the pain pump going into my knee someone had asked in a early post if it worked well for the most part I didnt feel it working the pain the first 3 days sucked after that the pain pump ran out of meds and I had to take it out myself. If I was you just say you dont want it. as for walking still not able to walk with a crutch. and still working on gettig my quad to react. anyone have any extra methods beside the normal that the PT give you to get that going aging. thanks Mark

roy
October 12, 2005 4:28 PM

i'm having acl reconstruction in 9 days, i would love next year to be able to play football, does anyone think thats possible?

Perry
October 14, 2005 1:17 PM

I had ACL surgery on September 19, I never had any pain whatsoever from the moment I went under until even today. I was walking without crutches after 10 days and I havent used the brace for over a week (except when I go to the gym). I also tore mine playing indoor soccer. I was on a breakaway right off the faceoff and as I was following through on my shot when I was "manhandled" and in the course of the fall my cleets stuck in the astroturff. I could feel the shred as I fell. Now I've never had a serious injury before like this, but I am a serious athlete, and I knew something was wrong right away. I ended up tearing my ACL and interior MCL. I hope to be back on the feild at the beggining of next summer. I am starting physio today and have started weightlifting again a few days ago. It's really nice to read about other peoples experiences. I guess some people heal faster than others. It does have a lot to do with age though. I am healing very fast, but I am only 18, and during the 5 months I had to wait for surgery I was excercising and strengthening my leg. So good luck to everyone in their recovery.

Stacy
October 15, 2005 7:44 AM

Hi! Loved reading this site. I am scheduled for ACL surgery Oct. 28th. I am 40 yrs. old, and a single mom. I teach Pre-K 4, Special Ed. I was "Not" acting my age, playing with my daughter and messed my knee up. I have been in PT for 3 weeks with some improvement, however the instability is still there. It was good to hear positive feedback from most people. I will let you all know how I do after surgery! Pray for all and for the PT's that have to put up with ME!

James
October 15, 2005 3:18 PM

I am in the military and I tore my Lateral ACL and my meniscus on a Airborne Jump. I can not strech my leg out without feeling a painful "POP" in my knee area. I will be having my surgury on the 1 Nov, the patellar tendon graft. I run alot (3-5 miles every other day) and roadmarch with a 50 lb rucksack or backpack. I want to get the experience from other of your experience, and how long do you think it will be until I am back doing Airborne Ops, Runs and Roadmarching. Thank you very much in advance for comments, and I wish everyone the best of luck in your recover.

Michelle
October 16, 2005 6:05 AM

Hi all I am a 33 year old mother of a 3 year old, and just had my ACL reconstructed using a donor graft on OCT 12. The ACL injury is over 13 years old (skiing back when I was 21). I had arthroscopy back then, but left it alone as I couldn't see myself having to deal with 6 months recovery at that age....well, I wish I would have done it then and not now! Dealing with the recovery timne and chasing a 3 year old rambunctious son are much more difficult!!! A torn ACL is not going to kill you if you don't get it repaired. I led a normal life, still could work out, light on the sports, but as the years progress, my stability got worse and worse. It took several locked-up knees and falls and then tears in both meniscus for me to make the decision to have reconstructive surgery now. 4 days later, here I am, not very mobile at all and wishing the meds would never run out! My suggestion to anyone out there who is tetering over whether or not to get it done....do it while you are young. You are a lot more resilient and will heal and recover and be back on your feet much faster. Not that I am 'vintage' or anything, it's just already been a different experience for me than for most of the younger people posting here. It's great hearing all the stories and being able to relate to some. Best of luck to all and stay healthy!

Cecelia
October 18, 2005 11:41 AM

My name is Cecelia i'm 17, and a senior in High school. In august I had a knee injury (softball) I had to sit out for that tournament for a while. My knee swelled up the next day, but I didn't pay attention to it. But days later the pain kept me from playing anything. I kept going to the doctor's and they sent me to get Xray's and didn't find anything, so I went to get a MRI. Finally I had a doctor's appointment yesterday, and they finally figured out that I had torn my ACL. I'm going for surgery next thursday on the 27th. I just wanted to know how long will it take to heal? My doctor said I will probably heal faster because I'm still young, and still growing, but I need to know. Can anyone give me at least a good educated guess? If you can help me out please email me.....thanks.

Yulia
October 20, 2005 1:45 PM

Dear Cecelia, You have a very nice name. I am no doctor. I just study ALOT on this stuff!! How are you feeling? How did you get hurt playing Softball? Usually with this type of injury, you'll be out for a while. Since you are having Surgery next week, You won't be able to return to sports at least 6 to 8 months from the date of your surgery. Some people can return earlier and others later. So anytime throughout that time that you feel discourage, don't. You'll be fine. just let the new ACL heal.There will be alot of physical therapy involved to strengthen your Quad muscles and your hamstrings. It is VERY IMPORTANT to DO ALL of your exercises. They will help you. Yes, it will hurt and stuff, but it will help you over all. Is your doctor going to use the Patellar Tendon or the Hamstring Tendon for a new ACL? Since you are still growing, there might be a risk of distrupting your Growth plates in You knee, Since the doctor has to drill through the Tibia and Femur, that is where you growth plates are. You'll have to ask your doctor about that. Are You Almost done growing? Ifso then that shouldn't be much of a problem. I hope you feel better. I wish you luck. Let me know how Everything went. Email me

Yulia
October 20, 2005 1:58 PM

Hello everyone. How are you? I am doing ok. I hope someone here could answer my question. I have Patellofemoral syndrome in my knee, (The cartilidge is softening,besides that its messed in general). On 10/10/05 I was playing with my cute dog. he was chasing me and coming after me like if he was going to bite me (Only play bite), I ran really fast and lost control and fell right on that knee (flexed). It didn't pop and I did have alot of pain. I had very little swelling in it. somehow I got up by myself. Now it pops (Hurts), and tries to give way or whatever. It did pop/hurt before but it never tried to pop out/give away. It definaltely hurts like heck now. Before it did hurt but not like this though. it never really hurt when I walked on it, now it does.There was NO dislocating or a fracture. Now what could this be, and or What else got messed up? Thank you you can email me anytime at alianna_hodiya@yahoo.com

stacy
October 22, 2005 12:20 PM

Hello everyone, Well on May 11th 2005 I tore my ACL playing lacrosse. I had surgery JUne 6th 2005 and The recovery has been hell. I broke out in hives two weeks after surgery for 24/7 three days in a row and then I got heart palpitations following. Then, they thought I had an infection and were going to send me back into surgery at 2am, and how cool is it I had NYS regents exams to take at 7am the next day!! Luckily, that didnt happen. They used a hamstring graft. Now I have patellofemoral and I have had it for about 2 months. Its not getting any better and the p/t's and and OS dont know what to do. Its holding me back a lot and it hurts to do pretty much anything. Although Im 4 months post op, my quad is still significanlty smaller and I would work throught the pain but they say it can worsen the PFS. Anyways, I hope everyone elses recovery goes better than mine.

Steve
October 24, 2005 10:48 AM

Hi there, I am a 33 year old guy and I tore my ACL playing soccer. I had my surgery done 4 months ago. After the surgery minor pain. I was in a brace and couldn't bend my leg for about 10 days. I didn't use the crutches and just walked slowly. After 10 days they took the bandages off and I went to physical therapist and she was able to get my knee bending 42 degrees. From there on I felt my knee improving almost everyday. After about a month i could bend my knee 110 degrees (my full range is 138) After 2 months I was able to walk without limping and soon there after got my range of motion back. I think the whole problem with this surgery is that the join has to heal first and then you spend time to work on your muscles which completely disappear after the surgery. now after 4 months I am able to jog and do pretty much anything with only minor pain, (not even pain but something in the knee lets me know that it is there) My muscles are about 60% back. The doctor told me that in 2 more months i can try to play competitively but I will wait like 9 months before i play anything again. good luck and I hope it helps and it is nothing to be scared off...

Kenny
October 26, 2005 6:30 PM

I am a 47 year old man with ACL reconstruction surgery scheduled for 11/18/05. My surgeon is Dr. Gary Fanton at Stanford. I elected to use a donor graft. My ACL injury occured 17 years ago (playing softball, rounding first base). I am a fitness nut. I work out six days a week. I run six days a week. My other actiivities include playing tennis, snow skiing, riding my mountain bike and playing golf. I learned over the years how to limit my activities to protect my bad knee... Can someone share with me what postop PT is like? What types of exercises are performed? How long are each session? How many time a week? What exercises can I do at home to accelerate my recovery? What exercises shouldn't I do? I hope to be back on the golf course 16 weeks postop and I am planning a helihiking vacation in July '06. Best of luck to all!

julie
October 26, 2005 7:27 PM

GOSH arent knees the most frustrating thing. ITs so annoying to be set back from doing actvities because of something so small. I just am so annoyed because my knee just doesn't want to bend up and I really don't want to have the surgury but i feel its inevitable. I hope everyone with acl problems recovers fast and healthy. Hopefully one day they won't be such a problem. STRENGTH TRAIN STRENGTH TRAIN

Ricky
October 26, 2005 9:36 PM

Hi all! It was both terrifying and relieving when I was reading the posts. I am a 31 year old guy and completely torn my ACL and damaged the meniscus while wakeboarding back in June this year. The pain was quite unbearable at the time and I had to stay out of work for a week because of the pain the the immobility. It was quite disappointing when I heard the MRI result and continue wakeboarding after the swelling gone since at the time of the accident I was testing my new board. It wasn't as fun as it could be this season as I can't do any of the more advanced tricks as I fear that i might hurt myself at the same place again. I think I was wrong with that since I kept hurting myself over and over agin throughout the season by only doing the small tricks. Without the ACL readlly dented both my physics and my mind. I'll be having the reconstruction on 14th Nov and will definitely let my knee recovered well(hopefully within 5 months) before picking up the sport again. I'm expect the re-hab process to be painful but hey, no pain no gain!

Alex
October 29, 2005 11:19 AM

Hey, I am only 16 but, I tore my ACL August 11th 2005 playing soccer on a traveling team. I am doing wonders in rehab. I had the graft from my hamstring also because I didn't want the large scarring. Rehab is tedious but I have a great therapist. The thing I am struggling with is being on a high school team. I am the captain at our school in Florida but now that I can't play someone else is a captain. My parents tell me I need to go to practice to support my team but it is so depressing because they all can play and I cant. My parents aren't being a big help either all they do is complain "why aren't you going to practice you need to go support them" I hate it. Maybe I am being depressed too much. Well This story was an encouragement.

Ali Keenan
November 1, 2005 8:28 AM

Kenny: One of my friends had Dr. Fanton do her surgery and has had excellent results. He put her in a perpetual motion machine so that her knee was automatically straightened and bent (I can't remember how long this lasted.) She opted for the cadaver replacement ligament and recovered very quickly, doing PT 3x per week. I just had my own ACL surgery on Thursday (Oct 28) up at UW by Dr. Wahl of the Sports Med Group there. He didn't put me in a per. motion machine--apparently the data says that it helps increase range of motion in the first couple days but has no real lasting effects. I'm back to work today and can do some hobbling around w/o crutches. This is a big difference between when I had my left knee done 18 years ago--then I was in the hospital for TEN days and on crutches for eight weeks. Get as fit and strong as you possibly can beforehand so you can bounce back quickly. Good luck w/ your PT!

Dray
November 1, 2005 8:42 AM

Hi everyone. Currently, I am a 36 years old male. I tore my ACL when I was 19 years old. I had my first ACL surgery with the Patella tendon when I was 21. The reason that I had the surgery was due to instability of the knee (my knee will give out about two or three times a day while walking). After surgery, I was able to work out and activities at 90%. At the age of 26, my ACL failed. The second surgery used my hamstring tendon from the same leg. Ten years later, my doctor says that my ACL is looking great. The knee feels good and stronger than ever. I am still able to do many activities around 85% to 90%. I believe my activity level is due to the strength in my hamstring not the knee. In my opinion, my hamstring did not recover 100%. The knee will get a little warm after a workout (or walking a few miles). In the last two years, I have been using products like icy-hot and Them-Care heat wraps on the knee when it become a little stiff. Overall, the surgery was worth it.

Kenny
November 1, 2005 4:50 PM

Kenny, a couple of days ago you asked the question about what the post-opt PT consisted of. First, let me say that I completly tore my ACL, MCL, and my Medial Meniscus on June 30, 2005. My O.S. (orthapedic surgeon) went with the bone-patella tendon graft (just below the knee cap and slightly inside). To me, this is the strongest graft that your body can produce. I started my PT one week after the surgery because of complications with some dried blood on top of my shin. Anyway, the exercise that hurts the worse is the heel slide. This consists of you lying on your back and attempting to slide the heel of your foot as far back as you can stand. Let me tell you up front, you will barely be able to slide it at all the first couple of sessions. It does however get better but it still hurts like hell. The knee does not want to bend at all but you have to give it your best effort so that your therapists can measure your proogress. One week after my surgery, my first slide measured 85 degrees. One week later, I was just over 100. Right now I have been released from PT because of my rapid progression but 2 months after I still hate doing it. My knee is very tight when I get past 130. Anything past 120 is considered very good but I want to get it equal with my pther knee. On that one, I can get 146 degrees. Anyway, I hope this helps. I'm sure that there will be other exercises that will be hi on your list once you start but I'm sure that you will remember the heel slide. If there is anything else that I can help you with, feel free to email me. I have written a diary from the moment I tore mine up until this very day. I will post on a website once I get to the 3 month post-opt point. Tim smoovechocolate_tim@yahoo.com

stacy
November 2, 2005 8:14 AM

Hey, well I had my surgery on Oct. 28th. I am doing pretty good. The stiffness is tough and I am having bad headaches(probably from the pain meds). I am up to 48 on the CPM machine and I am pleased so far, the guy who delivered the machine, had it set at 65 (degrees) at first! Ha! I came out of the chair when it hit 42, so I am slowly working up to 65 and higher. Good luck to everyone and I hope "we" all continue to heal quickly. If you are about to have surgery, listen to everyone that says work your upper thigh muscles, they disappear after surgery and use the ice machine and the CPM as much as possible, they really help. I am not looking forward to PT next week, however I do not like being dependent on others, so I will work as hard as I can to achieve results quickly, so that I can do things again for myself.

Kathryn
November 7, 2005 11:57 AM

To Michelle (mother of the 3 yr old): So good to hear of another toddler-mom having this surgery! I tore my ACL playing soccer (starting to sound repetitive!) I had my patellar tendon ACL graft done on Oct 12th and am recovering well...but, like you, I have a rambunctious toddler (2 1/2 yr old boy, Adam) running around making my life very interesting. I am off crutches and no brace now, which at least frees me up to get after him a little quicker, but I still feel bad that I'm not 100% for him yet. I still have a slight limp and don't feel stable enough to chase him around at the park on unstable ground or anything, but at least I can do some of the regular stuff with him now. The 1st week my mom stayed to take care of him (Praise God!) and then the 2nd week was VERY difficult since hubby was at work and I was home alone with him most days (some days friends kept him for me). But now going on my 4th week I am confident at home alone with him, can drive fine and am looking forward to continued healing and getting back to soccer next fall. I definitely won't be pushing it to get back early, I'll wait until the dr okays my return to sports and then see how I feel. Good luck to you, give your little boy lots of kisses and hugs and remind him you love him even though you have a booboo on your knee! :)

Sara
November 7, 2005 1:21 PM

My husband (25 yr old basketball player) had his ACL/meniscus repaired last Thursday. The physician used a donor graft for the ACL, and he has to stay off of his leg for 3 weeks because of the meniscus repair. It's very frustrating for him as he can't stand staying in bed. I hope the recovery is shorter due to the allograft (which is what we are told). Anyone had any experience with the allograft?? Thanks!

Dean
November 7, 2005 7:15 PM

I am 40 year old man, overweight but still feel pretty good. had a scope of my knee in july and they found the ACL 90% gone. Funny thing is i am having very little pain right now. The scope took out large piece of bone, so now i have to have an OATS surgery (take a piece of bone from the leg and graft it in the knee, the hole now is too big to leave) in March after the ACL heals. i am very nervous, but hope things go well. i have heard that it takes a few weeks to get back to work, but from the postings above, it seems it may be quicker. I am hopefully. Anyway, just wanted to add my 2 cents, and wish everyone else success.

Debz
November 9, 2005 4:44 AM

Had my ACL op 6 weeks ago but was knocked over and now xrays show top pin has moved, ouch. Has any one had this experience as having heaps of pain and grab in hamstring. Surgeon said I was the first one he's had this happen too.

kelly
November 9, 2005 9:26 AM

Had my acl/meniscus repaired on nov.4. Just wondering if anyone has experienced bruising on the back of the leg. I'm assuming this is just from trauma to the hamstring but have talked to 3 others who had the same surgery with no bruising...my bruise is the size of a pancake and the color of blueberries!

Jenni
November 9, 2005 11:04 AM

I'm getting ready to have ACL surgery and I was wondering if anyone knows what I can do to prepare for it. I've heard about strengthening my quad and hamstring muscles, but is there anything else? Also, my surgery is going to be on my Right knee and I'm concerned about driving after the surgery. Has anyone else had surgery on their right knee and how soon after the surgery were you able to drive? Thanks!

Michael jiang
November 9, 2005 2:18 PM

Hi im mike, 15, sophmore in high school. I tore my ACL and my MCL was badly damaged during a collision playing soccer. I just got the injury (nov 3) and they replaced my ACL and tightened my MCL. The surgury took 5 hours and really hurt bad once i got home. I dont feel the pain killers are quite working though. I hope to play soccer and run track again this year..(maybe im too optimistic) but either i hope through hardwork and PT i can get back ASAP <3 and hope to my fellow ACL injured athletes. I hope you recover well and feel 100% -Mike

Basil
November 9, 2005 8:47 PM

I am 11 years old and I am having an MRI tomorrow for a possible torn ACL. Soccer, of course. I am really scared. Sounds like it well really hurt to get it fixed. I pop and swell and I cant wait to get better. I can run but it still hurts. I dont like to walk much. But I got to deal with it. I am in 6th grade and need to walk, a lot.

John Guaschino
November 10, 2005 10:17 AM

im 15 years old n i just had acl surgery yesterday the pain is really bad,the doctor tells me ill wont beable to play sports for 4-6 months.i hurt my knee in my high school football game my knee got stuck in the turf. im just happy my knee is fixed so i can play football next season

Dan
November 10, 2005 12:47 PM

This is a response to Sara's question about Allograft surgery. I am also 25 years old and had ACL reconstruction surgery with an allograft on August 23rd of this year. According to what my physical therapist has said, I have been one of his fastest recoveries (compared to Patella or Hamstring surguries) which he attributes to the fact that is was an allograft. I did not have any significant cartiledge damage, so I was able to begin limited weight bearing three or four days after surgery and I began therapy three days after surgery. At this point (11 weeks after surgery) I am able to jog, jump and have even been doing some sprinting and cutting. I am not able to play soccer yet (which is how I hurt my self) but in another month I will finish therapy and in perhaps two to three months will be okay to return to sports (which I probably won't do for even longer just to be safe). If thee are any other questions you have about the allograft let me know.

Yulia
November 11, 2005 2:14 PM

Hello people. I hope all of you feel better. I wish you all luck. I have cartlidge problems in my knee due to another injury (way back in February). My dr told me that the injury should resolve by itself with time, If there is alot of swelling come back to see me. I will tell you what happened to me. On October 10,2005, I was outside playing with my cute dogs.(You know how dogs are when they chase you). The one dog (bassethound) came running after me, and I ran away from him and Then I lost control and fell on the same knee. I had alot of pain,little swelling. I was able to walk,but I had to stop the running. The next day the same knee it popped (NEVER GAVE OUT ON ME BEFORE),and tried to give out but it never went out on me though. Now it still pops, and it feels like it might give out, but never really does. I still have the pain. I do have a question. When I'm sitting (on the floor), when I turn my foot inward,to me it looks like the tibia comes forward alittle too much (lateralside). Could this be the ACL? Thanks. Email me with the answer of that question and or if you want to know more about the injury.

Alejandra
November 11, 2005 7:42 PM

I tore mi acl on saturday, october 22. I´ve never had any knee problems but that day it was a track competition with my kids so I ran and stopped to pass the stick to my son. It didn.t hurt, but just couldn´t keep walking my left knee just didn´t hold on. Went to the hospital and surprise!!!! it was completely torn. I also was given the slow down option but for me it is impossible. I.m 32 and have 3 boys, 6,4, and 2 year olds. 3 days later the doctor operated on me and he used hamstring and it does not hurt or anything. It´s been 2 weeks and Im off crutches, He wants me to protect my knee with the brace (sports) for about 6 months!!! I can walk but cannot go up and down the stairs normally. Next week I will be able to do stationary bike. I.m very happy to had an operation I decided really fast, with it completely torn and not wanting to stop doing anything, was the option so I´m possitive, good luck.

Kelsie
November 13, 2005 9:14 PM

well, like the rest of you i had acl surgery along with my meniscus sewn back together and my cartliage repaired. this was weds. now its sunday my knee has been hurting off and on..... i think you all know that the pain killers work!!!!!!!! i am 15 and this happened in June playing soccer months of physical therapy and i ended up having the surgery anyway so as of now my recovery should be from 4-6 months. well good luck to all yeah all!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dan
November 14, 2005 9:33 AM

This is in response to Jenni's questions about driving and preparing for surgery. As for driving it takes anywhere between 10 to 14 days to be able to drive. Mostly because of lack strength in the quad and slow reaction time. I had surgery on my right knee and it took me two weeks to drive (but I was a little more cautious because I drive a stick shift). Basically, when you are able to walk without crutches you will be able to drive. Which again is about 10 to 14 days if you have not had extensive cartiledge damage or have weightbearing restrictions post-surgery. Your surgeon can not be 100% percent sure that you don't have such damage until they cut you open. In addition different surgeries (ie patella, hamstring or allograft) may have different recovery times. I had the allograft which seems to be a pretty quick recovery. As for preparing for surgery, strengthening your legs is very important. Particularly the quads. Stretching your hamstring is also extremely important and aside from being able to bend the leg (by far the most painful part of the rehab process) trying to straighten the leg was the most challenging part of rehab. The majority of the early rehab process for me was devoted to strengthening the quad, achieving full range of motion and stretching the hamstring to achieve complete straightening of the leg. Depending on the surgery you are going to have, there might be other important areas i.e. hamstring strengthening for the hamstring graft. Strengthening the calf is also very important. Hope that helps.

Sam
November 14, 2005 12:46 PM

Well.. I had my surgery on the 8th. and I had a graft from a cadaver. I did not feel any pain in the knee for 3 days because my doctor used some kind of a pump that gets the pain killer directly to my knee; I tell you, I was doing my excersises with no problem, till that pump was removed ; now it hurts when ever I move in one direction or sit in another. I heard it gets better. I can no longer do my excersises , but I am try hard to at least get my quad stronger. Started to put some weight on the heal ( as little as possible and move your toes/ancle up and down ) ; that really makes it feel good. I also bought an EBICE machine , and I ice it for 2-3 hours straight after excersises. But ; discomfort is always there . pain comes and goes in waves , and trying to manage it. Any ideas on how to manage the pain without the pain killers ! they get me too drowsy and limit my movement big time..

J Haskew
November 15, 2005 11:10 AM

Today is week 3 from my surgery, I am walking without crutches and a minimal limp. I have no pain at all and have quit taking my medication. Therapy is 3 days a week but my leg is very weak. My advise would be to work on you leg as much as you can before surgery.

Colleen
November 15, 2005 8:46 PM

I am 52 and recently had ACL surgery Sept.05. I developed four calf blood clots immediately and was on daily shots of blood thinners for 8 days. A repeat Dopler Ultrasound revealed 4 calf clots less dense and a new clot in my thigh. My surgeon missed this and took me off of the blood thinners. Four days later I was in pain with my leg swelled up my surgeon finally read my ultrasound and referred me to an Internalist who put me on injections of blood thinners, daily lab work INR and pill form of Warfarin. After ten days I was finally off of the injections. I was now three weeks post operative and behind in physio. First day in physio my hamstring graft site was ruptured and I had internal bleeding, due to the blood thinners I suffered deep bruising...another set back. I am now two months post operative and have just returned to work. Hopefully, my knee will get better, I still have stiffness, swelling and numbness. I am disappointed in my post operative care and frustrated with my doctors. So far I think I would have been better off without the surgery.

sami
November 17, 2005 4:02 PM

well get surgery in 4 days (the 22nd) its a bummer because im gona be in bed on thanksgiving but im glad im getting it done. i tore my acl in a soccer tournament over the summer. at first they made me do physical therapy before i have my surgery so that im flexible. the day after my surgery they are makin me do pt. helppp

lyssa
November 17, 2005 4:45 PM

im foruteen and about 11 months ago ( when i was thirteen i tore out my acl completely). i planted my right foot and my whole body twisted while playing Basketball.the funny thing is, is that i had no sweeling or brusing, i got right up and barly limped off the court. i had the surgery in march and the three days after that i couldnt feel a thing beacuse of the meds they use...after those wore off....i thought i was gonna die hahah. i went to P.T. two days after the surgery and was devestad when they told me i would be out for 9months to a year. i wanted to play high school ball REALLY bad. i was back to school 5 days after the surgery and was walking around with out crutches after a week and a half. that is the BEST thing u can do...is NOT to baby yourself. do u physical therapy exercises ALL THE WAY (even if it hurts BAD). because i did that i was relased to play basketball after only 5 months. ( swimming is great! i aslo did tht) i now play on the highschool basketball team and my knee is holding up well. I will always have that aching feeling in it though, but the surgery was worth it! i also had a bad reactin to the surgery. Ypu could end up with a keyloud scar (sorry if i miss speeled that) , this is when the scar is really thick a dark redish pink and lifts from the skin...it still looks gross but its holding up. I just wanted to let you know i went through it and my knee turned out great, and if you a re going to get a surgery done i want to let you know there is nothing to worry about! its not that bad. And since my surgery i have done soo much research on the ACL and i just think that these sites are so awesome and i really wish i would have learned as much as i did before the suergery. well good Luck to you all

Nicole
November 19, 2005 6:35 AM

I tore my ACL completely playing softball, the darn 1st baseman came across the bag into my left knee as I was fully extended, bending it into the other knee. I had a cadaver allograft about 3 weeks ago - 10/27. I, too, had a pain pump, which I would highly recommend to anyone undergoing any knee surgery. I was nauseas the first day, then slowly regained my appetite, and by day 5 or 6 I was out running errands with my crutches. I was able to ditch the crutches 1 week post op, but was in the locked brace for three weeks except showers and pt. Now I'm in a sports brace (except to sleep) and I'm able to bend about 75 degrees. I still have significant pain swelling around my kneecap, and I'm 4 degrees shy of completely straight. I don't get the weird pressure sensation at the top of my tibia when I lift my leg now - (at first it felt like the bone would pop right out of my skin when I lifted my leg). My doc says 6 months from surgery I should be able to play softball again... I'm hoping to be back in time for the Vegas tournament in March.. :) I stumbled across this page trying to figure out the "ideal" recovery process - when I should expect to be able to bend more, experience less pain, walk normally, all that good stuff. I know it varies by person, but I can't seem to find a general timeline, and am growing frustrated with my rehab... Feels like I'm not really progressing as much as I should be, or perhaps I'm just impatient...

Rush
November 19, 2005 2:16 PM

why did you decide on doing the hamstring instead of the patella tendon?

jon NJ
November 21, 2005 12:09 PM

Hey guys, I am going through a reconstruction on Nov. 29. My doctor decided on the allograft (cadaver option). I am really nervous about it, and want to hear someone that has recently undergone that type of surgery. I am 31, and hurt myself while trying to pivot to the left and a defender came charing right into my knee. Needless to say not being able to run at full speed is annoying enough, but Kalsey's photos are definately not encouraging :)

J.Harris
November 21, 2005 8:15 PM

I tore my ACL in my left knee about 4yrs ago I'm 25yrs old now and I miss playing basketball and doing other physical activities that I used to do. I am scheduled to have my patella recon surgery on 11-30-05 it's only eight days from now and I'm starting to get a little scared. I'm concerned about blood clots. I saw on the news recently that a young football player in high school locally had a similiar surgery and passed away a few days later due to a blood clot related to the surgery. I have never had surgery before and I am really concerned. Has anyone my age had a similiar problem? I really enjoyed reading some of the stories it really helps to read some of your comments!

kris
November 22, 2005 11:15 AM

hey guys i just got my acl repaired the other day... i used my own hamstring as the replacment. The surgury went really great. at first i was really nervouse that the pain was going to be really intense. but when i woke up i didnt feel a thing and now im on my second day and i am still experiancing no pain, i am able to walk around the house without my crutchs but with my brace on... and i have only taken 2 vikaden since the surgury... i havent even taken any today... the best part of the surgury was wakeing up from the anastisia haha i dont reamember a thing it was kinda cool... if ur need to get ur acl repaired just do it, its worth it and the pain isnt even bad.

J Thompson
November 22, 2005 5:16 PM

On July 10, I rolled my four-wheeler and significantly damaged my meniscus and completely obliterated my ACL. I was going to have a cadeavor ACL put in the following week, but ended up in the hospital with a blood clot and pulmonary embolism. My surgery was postponed until late September. The surgery went okay, but I developed severe scar tissue which didn't allow me to bend my leg. Two weeks ago, on November 8, I had a second surgery to remove the scar tissue. I was put in physical therapy within one hour of waking up from surgery and have gone five days per week for two weeks. Not making progress...last night they injected my painful knee with painful steroids. It helped me walk better, but I'm still in pain. It's been four months. I'm wondering if there's hope.

Sarah
November 23, 2005 1:12 PM

Hi, I am going to be having surgery to replace my ACL. Also, the doctor said that she wont be able to save my miniscus. I am concerned about which option to take; cadaver or using my hamstring. I feel better having my own tissue in my body, than someone else. Does anyone have comments about using a cadaver or hamstring graft? I hurt my knee playing volleyball, it always gave me problems. I went and saw my doctor 3 times about it, but they said it was fine. but while jumping on a trampoline, my knee did some miraculous trick and decided to tear on me. The pain was un bearable. Thank goodness for pain killers. Physical therapy has helped some. The doctor started me on PT before my surgery to get the swelling done. Also, they wouldnt drain the blood out of my knee in case of infection. I'm very nervous for my surgery on the 29th. I have never had anything like this happen before. Hopefully all goes well. Goodluck to everyone else! -Sarah

Vaughn
November 24, 2005 12:07 PM

I had an acl reconstruction "allograph" from a donor a year and half ago. Caused by falling from a moving vehical. I was walking with a crutch within a day. There was a lot of swelling and brusing troughout my left leg from the thigh down. I recovered and was doing really well, went back to work and felt great. About 6 mo ago i was getting in my car and my knee poped out and i couldnt get it back in. I was swimming in pain and thoutht I would wet my pants from the pain. I grabbed my knee with both hands and forced my knee straight with a very loud pop. It has been popping in and out every since. I finnaly went to a sports medicine doc and had it looked at, and after the mri, it was decided that my graft had totaly failed and was letting my joint separate allowing the meniscus to fold over into the joint and locking it. The meniscus is also torn badly. Yesterday my doc and i talked and we decided to do the allograph all over agian, this time he is going to use an achilles tendon for the reconstruction. scheduled for some time in february around the first. I do have some anxiety about doing it all over agian but it isnt doing me any good the way it is so i will grit my teeth and bear it once more

Kenny
November 26, 2005 8:57 PM

Hi! My first post was on 10/25/2005. I was scheduled for ACL reconstruction (Allograft) on my left knee on 11/16. After viewing my ACL under arthroscopy, my doctor decided not to replace my left ACL (freyed but not torn) and instead shaved and repaired my left knee cap (I hope this fixes the stability problems I was experiencing with my left knee). For me, recovering from the anesthesia was the tough part. I experienced nausea and threw-up for 24-hours after surgery. I did not need the vicodin prescribed and have only taken 6-8 Tylenols since 11/16. I wish everyone good luck with both your ACL surgeries and recoveries!

Jenn
November 28, 2005 9:35 AM

Hi there, I had reconstructive ACL, and miniscus repair surgery 2 and a half weeks ago. I enjoyed reading your comments, as it gave me some insight to what I had done to my knee. My surgeon, while one of the best, is lacking a bit of bedside manner, and in the quick visits we had with each other, hadn't REALLY informed me of the exact process he would be using. None the less, being one of the best, I didn't worry to much. Your scars, and your progress are identical to mine, and while I am still currently using one crutch at work, I don't use them at home, and have been able to tackle stairs and return to some sense of normality. I'm curious to know the exercise you mentioned that indicated when you could be losing the crutches. I sometimes get worried that I'm pushing myself to quickly, and that even simple walking might do damage, as it does get sore. Anyways, thank you for your story. ;) Thanks!! Jenn

J Bear
November 28, 2005 3:40 PM

I tore my right ACL and damaged my medial and probably lateral meniscus skiing in Mary Jane part of Winter Park. I ignored it since I didn't want to miss any skiing this season. But my knee felt "loose" and had a dream about snapping my knee on the moguls. So I got the MRI and I'm scheduled to have surgery January 5, 2006. I'm looking foreward to having it fixed and planning on a mountain bike trip in July or so. Definitely going to ski the moguls again next season. I'm going to have the patellar allograft. I have a blog site on MSN that will tell my story on the pre-surgery rehab the surgery and post surgical rehab. I'm planning to take pictures of my knee before and hopefully everyday after surgery for a while and chronicle my recovery and eventual return to mountain biking and snow skiing. Maybe it'll help someone else in the future who has to undergo the same procedure. By the way I'm 48 years old male. Visit my blog. It's just starting.

CJ
November 29, 2005 1:47 PM

Sarah - I work for surgeons and am still a bit anxious for my ACL repair 12/23. I want to use my own tissue going in my own body and my doc is using my hamstring. He says he uses the hamstring on women becuase as women age, the patellar area of our knees weaken and using the patellar tendon heightens that. I coach basketball and our first practice is tonight...doc told me today to find a new coach.

Lindsey
November 29, 2005 2:33 PM

I tore my acl and meniscus in June when I landed wrong on a jump while wakeboarding. I did not get it checked out until this past month and yesterday found out that I have to have surgery in two weeks! I am pretty scared about it, I've never had the surgery but reading what most people have written on this site has helped me alot already. My family can't be with me because my sister is having her baby soon but thankfully my roommate is taking a day off work to help! I'm super scared though because I live on the fourth floor of my apt. with no elevators! My surgery is on Wednesday, will I be able to go back to work by Monday? Should I be this scared?!

Natalie
November 29, 2005 6:46 PM

I tore my acl playing soccer. i under went surgery about on july 12, 2005. I back to playing soccer and one day during warmup my knee started hurting and so after my season i got an MRI. I'm awaiting the results but the doctors and trainer say that my ACL is loose. Has this ever happen to any one?

Ed McGrane
November 30, 2005 5:06 PM

I have just been told that i need surgury on my right need. I tore my acl in hockey and they say i wont be able to play the rest of the year. i was wondering if theres anything to hep speed up my recovery. And if my knee will ever be the same again. thanks

David De La Vega
December 1, 2005 9:15 PM

Hello all, I just had my ACL surgery on the 29th of November. I am in my second whole day of recovery and I feel pretty ok. The only thing that really sucks is the fact that it is very uncomfortable to sleep. And the thing that I hate so far is that damn CPM unit. You use it to slowly bend your knee and get the fluids out of it. Its sounds like a piece of cake, Right? Those of you who know, It SUCKS!! You have to use that damn machine 6-8 hours a day. And the worse part is that you have to be on the ground the whole time, sitting up against something. It really Breaks my balls to be sitting all-damn-day letting this machine move your leg. But.... you got to do what you got do. Pain.... no real pain, I have taken vicodin mostly just to sleep since I cant really do it the natural way. Bear in my mind I have only used two since my operation. They say after the first week, everything is pretty much downwhill. I hope they are right. Chin up boys and girls, chin up!!! Good Luck to all! God Bless David De La Vega Age 23

christianna
December 3, 2005 6:13 PM

hi my name is christianna. i run track for lincoln university.this is something i love to do and can't do with out. i've always had problem with my knees, but the doctor always said my acl were fine. i was doing bacward lunges one morning at weight training and heard my knee pop. i found out that i tore my acl and also carry a bucket tear to the meniscus. i have to undergo surger 01/19/06. i wonder will i ever be able to do what i love anymore, will i be able to run. it hurts to see everyone leave to go and compete.

Worried mom (Stepmom)
December 3, 2005 9:06 PM

My son (stepson, really) lives with his mom 1400 miles away from myself and hubby. He was playing tackle football on the 5th of November (4 weeks ago) and was tackled and landed on a rock, hard. His knee has been swollen since, and he had a bruise initially that is now just little. X-rays showed nothing wrong, but clearly something is if he's still swollen and in a lot of pain and still using crutches 4 weeks later. I talked his mom into having an MRI done to see if the Dr. can see anything, but that's not for a week or so. The ortho-specialist can't see him till mid January!!! I am worried that he might have an ACL tare that is going unnoticed and untreated! I haven't seen him since he is so far away. Can anyone give me some of their experiences with ACL tares? I don't know what it's like? And don't know what to ask him to see if I'm possibly right. Thanks a million! ---Worried mom

Slavi
December 3, 2005 10:50 PM

Hi (especially to J!) I had a h.string graft for my (L) ACL from a gymnastics accident. I had a great surgeon. I had the surgury on the 30th of May, 1997 and was running 5k by the end of August. The sad part is that I re-tore this last month - Oct-05 (a stupid un-sport related accident), and will have to have another revision. I will use the h.string from my other leg. Don't worry. With the advances in sports medicine. I'm sure that this one will be even better! Good luck with your surgury! Slavi

Shane
December 4, 2005 11:05 AM

Hi, MY name is shane and i just had my acl surgery about a month and a half ago and i can walk just fine without any pain and i usually dont use my brace any more because I dont feel I need it, but now when I walk im starting to notice my knee pops and i dont know if its because i have retore my acl or if its nothing to worry about?

Erik
December 4, 2005 1:55 PM

I have ACL reconstruction done just little over 2 weeks ago on Nov 18th. I went with the Allograph "cadaver". I was walking w/out crutches after 3-4 days. Walk now with a little bit of stiffness. Cannot quite do stationary unless on recumbant. I can swim fairly well. PT and doc have been very impressed with the fast recovery so far. I rehabbed my knee very hard for several months before my surgery which helped also.

Chad
December 7, 2005 11:29 AM

I completely tore my ACL and damaged my meniscus in early Nov. 05 playing indoor soccer. I was not going to have surgery as I recovered fairly quickly and was back running and biking within a couple weeks. i decided to have surgery because of slight instability at odd times, never running or biking just walking around or playing with the kids. I had surgery Dec. 2nd 05 and so far am happy I did it. I have had very little pain, have only taken advil 2-3 times daily and now once a day. Each day it has felt stronger and stronger. Just hoping the recovery continues to go well.

Pat Parker
December 7, 2005 5:23 PM

I tore my ACL in 2000 playing basketball. Typical symptoms, pop, pain, & swelling. Big mistake, did not got to sports orthopedic, regular orthopedic scoped & said no damage, everything good. I knew he was crazy, but didn't want to do it again so quick. Waited 5 years, found a highly recommended Sports Ortho. Seven weeks postop & feeling great. Certainly was not easy, but aggresive rehab is key.

Dan Okey
December 9, 2005 5:28 AM

I'm now 6 months post op (reconstruction using hamstring) from an injury sustained from football almost exactly how Adam describes and the knee feels terriffic! The best advice I had was to treat recovery very seriously and not try too much too soon. I've been dedicated to the gym, building strength and agility back to the muscles around the knee and have just now resumed my triathlon training. I know of several people who've had the operation who say they just don't feel confident enough to return to sport at the same level as they played before. I guess time will tell for me as I want to get back to football, surfing and snowboarding, which my surgeon advises from 9 months and not before!

Cheryl
December 12, 2005 10:31 AM

I completely ruptured my ACL, as well as sprained MCL, and medial menicus tear playing soccer back on 9/20/05. I had surgery on 12/2 and was up and walking with little to no pain 2-3 days post-op. I also went with the Allograph “cadaver”. Several of my teammates have suffered the same injury and used the patella tendon graph. Their recovery was long and very painful. I think the less invasive you are with your knee the better off you are.

K
December 13, 2005 8:04 AM

hey i had acl reconstruction surgery on nov 18. they used allograft method. i actually had minimal pain on the day of surgery and almost none since then. the knee is still swollen. i wasnt allowed to bend my knee till 10 days after surgery, and then i was allowed to bend as i was able to and started walking with 1 crutch. its been 3.5 weeks now and i am walking kinda slow. when i walk more than a minute or two, i get really tired. my thigh is very very jellyish looking. so to anyone who is having surgery, make sure you do bicycle to strengthen your thighs.

Ricky
December 13, 2005 9:35 PM

Hi all, it's me again! I finally had my reconstruction on 1st Dec using the patella tendon. Everything went really well and I'm able to walk without the clutches on day 4. There weren't as much pain as I've expected, which is a good sign. Although I can walk fairly well on levelled ground, walking down the stairs and downhill slope is not very comfortable as my range of motion is about 110 degree max with about the first 60-70 degree comfortaably. PT really helps especially the one where you need to lie flat and bend your knee. Have to do it everyday if you want a fast recovery. What's bothering me now is still the swelling on the knee and all the muscles below. It's a bit like I've been kicked at, all bruised...

Michael jiang
December 15, 2005 5:54 PM

Hi had ACL and MCL and meniscus surgury Nov 2. With possibly one of the best ortohpedic surgeons in New England. I tore it playing soccer....at age 15, you can only expect me to have been devasted. I was a varsity track runner, but now i just hope to be able to jog again. Reading your comments really help me emotionally, knowing that I am not alone. Thanx for making this site(appreciate it). I feel strong enough now its been 5 weeks, and im walking with a back pack at school. I just hope i can come back. Wish you all the best of luck -Mike

Michele
December 18, 2005 12:04 AM

Hi. My husband had allograft surgery on his right knee about two weeks ago. The surgery went "excellent" according to the surgeon. My husband was in pain, but it seemed on the road to recovery. About 60 hours after he had come out of surgery, he vomited. It was while using the CPM, so we thought it might be motion sickness. Since it was the weekend, the surgeon was out and we did not page him. About 24 hours later the same thing happened, and he kept getting sick every 2 hours. When the on call doctor returned our page, they prescribed some anti-nausea medication thinking that he had a virus although he did not have a fever. When we finally got into see the doctor, my husband was in a constant state of nausea for the rest of the weekend even with the medication and had barely eaten anything. The doctor diagnosed it as a combination of several factors, allergic reaction to the anesthesia and pain medication combined with poor pain control. It was the worst experience of both of our lives. Lesson learned, take your pain medication as prescribed - do not underdose. Also, at the first sign of reaction contact your doctor. Getting the diagnosis sooner would have saved us a lot of suffering. Now he is on different medications and healing well. But it was really touch and go for a while there. Your site is very inspirational. Thank you.

Eric
December 19, 2005 3:08 PM

Tore my ACL halloween weekend playing soccer. Complete tear. had my surgery on Dec 9 using cadaver. Was up walking with crutches next day & CPM for 6 days. I am walking with one crutch now, and can even walk without using my brace. My surgery went extremely well, knee never hurt - just my shin from bruising and swelling due to fluid draining to the lower leg. I have 100 degree movement after one week. don't give up!

Sam
December 22, 2005 12:58 AM

On Thursday night, 12/16/2005, I tore my ACL and both right and left menisci; I was five minutes into my volleyball season. 12/20/2005, I had them repaired surgically; the ACL was replaced w/ a piece of my hamstring (supposedly this method is less painful than replacement from the patella tendon). The morning after my surgery, I drove myself to PT at 9:00 - they say it's important, but I wouldn't recommend it... I'm a police officer and am very bummed that I won't be back on the street for at least 3-4 months. People ask how the bad guy fared; unfortunately, there's no good story....(I'm embarrassed to say I was playing volleyball.) Guess I'll have to get used to a desk job for a while - sure will be boring...

Ashley
December 23, 2005 10:34 PM

hey! This is my first year in college and I'm on the dance team and I tore my ACL Oct. 29 at a performance!!! I just had my surgery because of being gone from home and college classes (u cant miss) on Dec. 16. I was nauseated for like 4 days and I started my therapy on the 5th day. I'm not off crutches yet but I will be soon.They're telling me like 5 or 6 days. Thanks for this site!!! It's really helping me get through all of this!

Laura Sullivan
December 26, 2005 4:47 PM

Hey everyone! I actually wrote on this website right after I tore my ACL and MCL in may of 2005, at the end of july I had the surgery and it has been a great recovery! I hardly had any pain after surgery and by the 3 month mark I was running on the treadmill with my brace on, it is now 5 months and feels pretty awesome. I can do almost everything and am hoping to be playing basketball within the next month! My story has been one of success so far and if anyone has any questions feel free to email me at laurasully3@hotmail.com

jni
December 27, 2005 7:15 PM

broke ankle tore tendons ligaments ankle came out of socket,3 surgeries since 8-2004.feels like i tore or retore something in my ankle wore sandals one day set myself back 6 months no insurance dont qualify for any funding blah blah blah, is it possible idid a mini refracture or is it just scar tissue hurts enough to bring tears to my eyes

Skyler Cook
December 28, 2005 10:30 AM

Adam you have no idea how much this site is going to help me. i just recently torn my acl and i am having a very hard time getting over it. I was worried about the surgery and if I could ever play sports again. The Doctors told me it was a good thing i am only a freshman. I again just want to thank you for giving me the confidence in myself to have this done.

Sam
December 30, 2005 11:48 AM

I tore my ACL completely, MCL partially and meniscus in 4 places over Thanksgiving. I am scheduled to have surgery on Jan 12, 2006. I am terrified about the pain- I had ACL recon done on my other leg twice fifteen and seventeen years ago. I remember it being incredibly painful, and I was in the hospital 4 days. Now I'll be released the same day, which has me worried. How was your pain managed? I have a flight of stairs at my house that I have to negotiate daily. Any reassurance anyone can offer is greatly appreciated! Thanks for the site.. Sam

Yulia
December 30, 2005 3:47 PM

To Sam, I wish you good luck. I am no doctor. I am only telling you what I was told by my doctor. Usually you are released the same day. The ACL Reconstructon is done arthroscopically (one 1-3 inch cut on the front of the knee and a few very tiny cuts around the knee). Once in a while they do open version to repair the meniscus, but they should have no problem doing arthroscopically. They should do a femoral block so the recovery will be easier (While you are in the hospital for like 2 hours) Usually they block lasts for 2 days, but that varies from person to person. I wish you the best. If you feel that you are still confused about the surgery, I can possibly help you. I know about alot of this stuff because My dr. told me about it and I study this sort of thing and other medical stuff. email me at alianna_hodiya@yahoo.com YULIA

Joe
January 1, 2006 9:03 PM

I am 40 an completely tore my ACL and Meniscus on 12/16/05, surgery is scheduled for 1/24/06. My Doc suggests the Patella option, it supposedly holds up the best and I don't care if it is harder rehab or not, I am in this for the long term. I am pretty active and figure I have 10 good years left of soccer, basketball, and softball still in me before I switch over to a walking sport like golf. I will try to update on progress later. Good luck to all, I can't wait to get it over with!

Lynne
January 3, 2006 8:47 PM

Hi I tore my acl and medial meniscus in November and am scheduled for surgery on 1/11. I am most afraid of post op pain and recovery time. Any comments from thos who have recently had this. Aslo, I am not in pain with this ailment. I am simply afraid my knee will go out on me as it has 2 times since my first fall.

Lynne
January 3, 2006 8:48 PM

Hi I tore my acl and medial meniscus in November and am scheduled for surgery on 1/11. I am most afraid of post op pain and recovery time. Any comments from thos who have recently had this. Aslo, I am not in pain with this ailment. I am simply afraid my knee will go out on me as it has 2 times since my first fall.

todd
January 3, 2006 9:05 PM

Sam and Joe, you guys can relax. I had my surgery on Oct 20th using hamstring. From what I researched this is gaining popularity and is way less painful. Some web sites and doctors say the difference in strength is only slight compared to using the patella. Being in medical sales, I made sure I was the first case of the day so there are no delays and everyone is at the sharpest. My procedure lasted about 3 hours, they had to also shave my torn meniscus. I was in another world after waking up from the anesthesia but felt no ill effects at all, no nausea or pain. I hear I am lucky for that. I used my crutches for that day and briefly for the day after. I was absolutely fine to walk on my own without crutches albeit carefully. It was weird, I had almost 0 pain for the first week and then began to get a little bit in the area where they took the graft after that (upper shin area). I started phy ther 4 days after surgery and continued that through Dec 20th. I had incredible progress according to my therapist for the first 5 weeks but then I pulled my hamstring during an exercise in phys therapy. My doctor thinks it could have been scar tissue popping but the bruising and pain that I would experience afterwords from tweaking my hammy has me convinced it was a pull...I've pulled it several times and definetly know what it feels like. It is now Jan 3rd and I go to my doctor again tomorrow for a check up. He has explained to me that the first 3-4 weeks, the graft is very strong but the next 4-6 weeks, it is at its weakest and most vulnerable. If I remember correctly it is due to the graft trying to get proper blood flow. Anyway, I am currently a little discouraged bc it has been at least a month since I've felt like I have made any significant progress but my phys therapist thinks I am doing very well with the knee. I am looking forward to being able to run at the 4 month point, my doctor will tell me more tomorrow and resume sports by 9 months, I am not risking further injuring my acl. Plus, being that I injured it at the end of July playing basketball, it has provided me with an excuse not to workout for the past 5 months, the longest stretch in my life...I know bad excuse and it makes me sick to my stomach how lazy I have been workout wise. All I can say and advise this far into my experience is the following: 1. ice your knee religously for the first 4 weeks buy a thing called an empi..I think (looks like rectangular black trash bag that you keep in the freezer, you put it in a bed sheet and then wrap around your knee...cannot believe I haven't had one of these my whole life) 2. go to phys therapy as often as your insurance allows 3. do not get discouraged like I have when you question your progress 4. lay off the hydrocodon bc it is very addictive 5. make your first big goal to be making a full rotation on a stationary bike, it will hurt like hell but makes everything after alot easier. If anyone has any questions feel free to email me at t1headley@hotmail.com I know how nervous you can get prior to surgery...good luck.

Chris C
January 3, 2006 10:34 PM

patella tendon is the best definetly.... I had mine done 8 months ago and I can run and work out just as hard as I used to. Just remmeber to do your exercises... i didnt, and that sucked about 1 month into it when the scar tissue built up and i needed to forcfully push my knee to complete straight (worst pain of my life)

Chris C
January 3, 2006 10:38 PM

anyone can email me too if they are thinking about having the patella tendon graft... ill tell u one thing Todd, i wasnt walking without crutches for 2 weeks or more! my email is cchecksfield@yahoo.com.... feel free to ask anything at all, I wish someone would have let me ask them the 2,000,000 questions I had pre op.... GooD LucK!!

Lalor
January 4, 2006 10:13 PM

Hey there, I am journalising my ACL injury/op/rehab on my website www.lalor.net. I too tore my ACL (left) playing indoor soccer. Initially it was thought to be just medial ligament and meniscus damage but the MRI showed otherwise. I am having a hamstring tendon graft operation on February 3rd 2006. Hopefully I will return to triathlon by late 2006 early 2007. Not sure if I will play soccer or hockey though! Good luck to all going through the same problem!

Bob
January 5, 2006 9:59 AM

I just had my ACL fixed on Dec 28,05 . Back in Nov 23, I had my knee scoped and my Doc went in & did repaire. I had tears in menucis & the tibae palttoe sounds right to me any way. It gave me time to heal and confirm the ACL was torn. So went back in on the 28, Dec to get it fixed I used a cadaver tendone to do the repair my doc told he will keep me over night to make sure i was in good comfort with the pain and no bleeding plus your under for a least 3 hours or more and you will feel sick at some point that night they will give you something to help with that. My Doc said to never get surgie on mondays or fridays he only dose them on wed or thur just something to look at when pick your Doc. It is now one week later and I can stand on my leg and bend my knee a little my knee feels better then it ever did. It has been this way for at long time. I went and found the Doc in my area mainly by word of mouth when you have to wait to see your Doc for at least month or more to get the in to see him the first vist people kept say just wait to see him he is the BEST and that is what you should look for best Doc you can find you only get 2 Knees. Can you give up a knee to a crapy Doc I know i couldn't. By the way the pain you is like when would hit your knee cap when you were a kid on the ground it hurt like a mother @%^*(er it hurts for about 4 Days after surgier also when you use your owen Pettalla tendon after you heel later on down the road you can't kneel on that knee you will get very sharp pain up the leg or knee and you can also break your knee cap a that is the worst pain you will ever feel and hamstring is not as strong and could snap agian right back were you started it's a lot to think about make it a one shot deal trust me do your HOME WORK and REHAB GOOD LUCK BOB

Oanh
January 6, 2006 9:12 AM

Any idea if any medal was inserted in your acl reconstruction surgery? I had an acl rec surgery in 2004. I am still recovering from it. I am an avid swimmer, volleyball player and soccer player. But now I can only swim. I can't even go for a little jog b/c my knee would hurt during and after the jog. It feels like two bones are rubbing against each other.

Dr. John
January 6, 2006 12:41 PM

Had my ACL reconstruction and medial meniscus and lateral meniscus repair yesterday. I have had almost no pain and already able to bear weight and actually walked today!! I don't know what all this pain people have been talking about. It actually scared me reading about all the pain people had after the surgery. Sure ther's some pain, but nothing that Advil or Tylenol arthritis can't take care of. I didn't even fill the Lortab that my surgeon gave me. I guess pain is very subjective and mostly in ones mind. Only thing that was miserable was after the surgery. I had general anesthesia and it made me horribly nauseated for about 12 hours after the surgery. I'd rather suffer from severe pain than ever experience nausea like that. And they gave me everything to try to get rid of the nausea but only thing that worked was waiting 12 miserable hours. But I feel great now!! Dr. John

Dr. John
January 8, 2006 6:57 AM

Sorry for the double comments up there but I just messed up. I't's been post op day #3 and I'm doing quite well. Full extention, and 120 degrees flexion with only minor pain. I'm already able to pedal on my stationary bike(It's not easy but I can go around about five times). I also got an elliptical machine and that's no problem. Ice, elevation, flexion/extention, and try to ignore the pain. That's the key to the rehab. Hopefully this will ease some peoples mind regarding the procedure, pain, and rehab. It's not that bad!! Cheers, Dr. John

walt
January 10, 2006 12:21 AM

i tore my ACL and more in 1996. playing soccer it tore while running fast and pivoting to the inside. sounded exactly like taking a socket wrench and spinning it around and around. had the surgery patella graft, etc. etc. and it healed very strong. have been skiing and running since without any fear of re-injury. however in oct. 2005 after 4 months of good training and playing soccer i re-injured the same knee while playing here in bangkok. have stopped playing obviously and will now get a MRI and find out the damage. worried about having the operation here in bangkok vs. the US but can not leave bangkok at this time. it is great to see the many comments and successful recoveries. i really thought i was in great shape and speed after 9 years but something just gave out that fateful day last october. i'm hoping it isn't the ACL and might be repaired without a graft as the doctor of the original operation said, don't ever rip it again or that is it. looking for a reliable doctor in bangkok for an appointment this next week...

barry hutchinson
January 10, 2006 11:19 AM

In 2003 i damaged my right knee i later had key hole surgery to find out i had torn my ACL, i had this trimmed down and after 3 weeks on crutches started to recover fine, then in 2004 it happend again only this time they removed my cartlidge, and 6 month later my memicus, since then my knee has been giving way,inflaming ect ect. yesterday i was told i am being put on waiting list to have a acl reconstruction, waiting time is about 4 month from now i am really nervous, and ready all above comments i now have a mixed view, should i or should i not play football again? this wiil be my 4 time under the knife is it worth it? cheers barry

Dr. John
January 12, 2006 9:55 AM

I'm 1 week post-op ACL reconstruction via patellar allograft and repair of both medial and lateral meniscal tears with microfracture placements in both where my medial and lateral menisci used to be. I'm doing extremely well and very satisfied with the surgery and the rehab. so far. I have 125 degrees of flexion and full extention. I can get on a stationary bike and bike for 10 minutes.(I could do more but my therapist limited me to 3, 10 minute sessions prior to the painful, but necessary rehah exercises. In reply to Barry above, if you love playing football as much as I love downhill skiing and the moguls go for it!! Get it fixed and play football again!! That's what life is about, doing stuff you enjoy doing and have as much fun as possible doing what you love doing. My doctor(I'm a doctor too, but an Internist) told me I didn't have to have my ACL repaired as long as I wore a brace and stayed on "bunny hills" when I ski again. Of course I went for the surgery and planning on going down the black diamond runs again this December. Both moguls and down hill.(there's nothing like going down a race course carving at 40 miles per hour!!--that's how I screwed up my knee last April in Colorado) I'm 48 years old and want to enjoy agressive skiing as long as possible. I'm going to be careful at first but If I tear it again, I know I did it again doing something I love doing. And will go through the surgery and the rehab. again!! Life's too short, enjoy it while you can. So Barry, if you love football as much as I love skiing, you know your decision already!! Dr. John

Kuriakose
January 18, 2006 8:28 AM

Hey all, Its been 2 months since my surgery. My doctor actually has his patients wait a month before rehab so I've only been doing rehab for the past 2 weeks. My knee feels great. Rehab is going to be long. I hurt myself playing basketball, I am an avid bball player. I love to play and have been out for almost 5 months now. I am stupid and will probalby try to start playing sooner that I should. But other than that, I've had no pain in rehab. Thigh is starting to feel stronger.

Patrick
January 19, 2006 11:57 AM

I tore my ACL on Sept 15/05 playing soccer. I was running with the ball up the field, i attempted to pivot to avoid a tackle but when i planted my right foot it stuck in the ground while my upper body continued. SNAP, I havent screamed like that ever before. It was such a strange feeling, i cringe just thinking of it. Only someone who has experienced tearing their ACL can truly appreciate the amount of pain a small ligament can cause. I was given the option to avoid surgery but i could kiss my soccer career good bye. Of course i didnt want that so I went ahead with the surgery on Oct 31/05. So as of next thursday im in week 12 of post. Its been a tough 3 months, I began physio therapy 2 days after surgery. It took 2-3 weeks before i could see some real results. Every day the swelling went down less and less, as did the pain. I have almost reached full range of motion, still lacking a few degress in flexion but that will come. I have come to a point now in physio where i want to test the limits of my knee, I want to run, jump, kick, pivot etc. Its so tough, Ive actually had to stop my self from turning a brisk walk into a full out sprint. I guess you could say in a bit antsy to get back to 100%. I know im a long way from that (3 months approx) but i still think i can move a lot faster in physio than i am. Getting to the point of this posting, does anyone using this board know what week in rehad does a patient begin to jog. For me there are 3 main levels to get passed in order 2 return 2 soccer. First, Walking and weight bearing, Second, Joggin, Third, kicking a ball. Im way passed walking and weight bearing but have yet to get the go ahead from my OS or PT to begin jogging. Any suggestions as to which week i can expect to begin jogging?

Lindsey
January 19, 2006 12:37 PM

I am 5 weeks post surgery and doing great! I had my left acl reconstructed using my own hamstring and am recovering wonderfully. I'm 24 years old and in excellent shape and I think that fact that I had great leg strength beforehand has something to do with it. I'm already at 140 degrees flexion (my right knee is at 150) and can straighten the entire way. I just had my 5 week check up with my surgeon and he said I'm above and beyond other patients he's had. He even said I could start jogging or swimming but I'm definitely not going to yet. I am still sore and am just taking it as easy as possible. If you're young and athletic, you'll recover great! The surgery itself sucked but just stay positive and DON'T overdo it the first few weeks out. Let people baby you and rest as much as possible and you'll do fine!!!

Dr. John
January 19, 2006 7:34 PM

I'm exactly 2 weeks post ACL reconstruction by patellar allograft and repair of damaged medial meniscus. I'm 48 years old. I'm up to 134 degrees of flextion and have full extention already. No more crutches,it's in my closet. I'm doing 3 sets of 20 minutes aerobic workouts(reaching my target heart rate) on my mountain bike mounted on my cyclo-simulator machine. Sure the rehab exercises are a little painful, but very necessay. I'm planning on a week long mountain bike expedition in July. If a 48 year old guy can do it, anyone can. Most important thing I can stress is to start rehab. exercises post-op day one. Keep icing the leg. Get an AutoChill System 208 with your Cryocuff. It's well worth the money even if your insurance won't pay for it. Keep the knee elevated as much as possible, and keep it cold the first two weeks. I know rehab is painful, but pain=eventual improvement. Anyways, after a while your brain will get used to the pain and the pain won't bother you as much. If an old man like me can do it you can too!!

Amy
January 20, 2006 5:55 AM

I'm about a year after my ACL reconstruction. It was honestly the worst thing to ever happen to me. I'm 16 years old and the depression of tearing my ACL mentally disturbed my healing process. I used a cadaver graph. Two months after surgery I developed scar tissue, and it could not be broken through with my physical therapist. I had another surgery removing a sheet of scar tissue a quarter of an inch thick that had surrounded my knee. A year late I am playing basketball again, but I still do not have full extention or flexion. I will probably go to clean out my knee after basketball season. Good luck to anyone that is having reconstructive surgery. My only advice is to work hard in PT, do what they say and go slowly. If you return to sports too quickly you are much more likely to hurt your knee.

Yulia
January 20, 2006 11:35 AM

Hello Dr.John I am glad your knee is doing better. I want to be a doctor (Orthopedic). My knee was first hurt in February 2005 (cartilage injury under my kneecap), due to a boy purposely kicking my knee. So that took about 8 months before it felt better. The only thing I still had problems with was pain in the medial jointline. My knee never gave out before I got hurt in October.I was running with my dog. I was runnig really fast and I fell right ont he same knee. I had alittle bit of swelling and ALOT of pain. I didn't pop until the next day. Ever since then, it didn't feel right. On Christmas day. I was dancing to Britney Spears's video, I did one of the twisting moves and the same knee went out on me and I ended up on the floor. I had alot of pain again and little swelling. Ever since then When I go to turn or twist ont hat side my knee feels like it wants to give out. What could be causing this? I want to go out for a spring sport. Email me at alianna_hodiya@yahoo.com

joaquin
January 21, 2006 12:52 AM

I'm a 25 year old male, I had my ACL reconstruction surgery done 10 days ago. Today's is actually the first day that I feel some improvement, it's kind of hard but at this point u need to realize that your knee is strong and you can try to push it as much as your instinct tells you. I still use the cruches to move around, but I try to put a little bit more of weight on my leg everyday. The First week was awfull, had to sleep with the cold therapy machine and during the day i've been using the CPM machine this whole time reaching 90 degrees today on 10th day after surgery. The oxycodin is very helpfull but I'm starting to feel like I should try to discard the option of pain killers and try to deal with the pain myself. I'm hoping to start physical therapy as soon as possible, I found out possible to drive an automatic car without any problems at all, only got to be carefull with the medication it might make you dizzy while driving. I have some questions, how long until I can stop taking the medication? I think the main tip for post-surgery is rest. patience and determination

Dr. John
January 22, 2006 3:35 PM

Joaquin, 10 days is long enough for you to be on the oxycodone(same as Percocet). It's highly addictive and sooner you stop the better. I think it'll be ok to take at night for a little longer but as a doctor, I've seen too many people get addicted to oxycodone and hydrocodone. So be careful!! Take Tylenol arthritis or Advil liquid-gel. It worked great for me. I didn't even fill the pain medication that my orthopedist gave me. I started physical therapy day after the surgery, but I agree with you that patience and determination is the key to successful recovery post ACL surgery. I don't agree on the too much rest part though. I was up walking around on crutches the day after the surgery. But everybody has different pain tolerances and have to let pain be your guide. Dr. John

hossain
January 23, 2006 8:35 AM

hi , it is good to hear from all of you , actually there is a lot to share, i had my Acl revision 12 weeks ago , my pt left sydney at 10 th weeks so far i was doing well , every thing was going good , i am swimming, riding push bike for 20 minutes , doing sprints walking fast , marcing on bed .just last week i have seen a pt he says my knee is loose i was very upset as i did it second time , i can not go for it for 3 rd time now i am very worried about it , but i was feeling everything all right , feeling great , i got see the os on 2nd of feb i hope he will say everything is fine do not see that stupit pt again, i torn my acl by playing soccer first time in 2001 and second in 2005

senu
January 24, 2006 7:35 AM

I wish good luck for hossain when he goes to see the OS. I had my ACL Reconstruction done yesterday ( tear happened playing basketball ). So far the pain is well under control with the help of pain medication( oxycodin). I asked my doctor if can stop the oxycodin and take ibuprofin instead, he suggested that i take oxycodin atleast for couple of days so that the pain does not get out of hand. Cold therapy machine is making me feel good. I am able to walk with the cructhes and put some weight on my repaired leg , doing all the simple but tedious excercise routines( toe moving, rotating etc.), Seems like So far so good .

Michael jiang
January 24, 2006 5:11 PM

Has anyone tore there ACL(maybe also MCL) and has returned to playing soccer? im a sophomore in high school and i got ACL and MCL reconstruction, and i really hope i can play again, because it means the world to me. im not really talented in any other thing.... please share your stories

TMH
January 24, 2006 5:45 PM

I had a repair on Dec 13th. Did really well-at 90 degrees at 1 week. Little discomfort or pain. Now- for the past week I'm having very bad pain at the side of my knee (worse than any post op pain). It hurts to stand- takes my breath away. Once I start walking it goes away. Is this normal?

Dr. John
January 25, 2006 10:41 AM

Well, tomorrow makes 3 weeks post-op my ACL and meniscus repair. I'm up to 140 degrees flexion and minus 5 degrees on extention. My quads are really starting to build up finally!! I'm able to walk only with a little bit of a limp. I can go up and down the stairs with some effort. We got elevators in the hospital I work at but I figure it's an extra workout to take the stairs. Doing about 30-60 minutes of "cardio", mostly on the reclining bike and the elliptical machine. My recovery has been fantastic and really pleased so far with the results. Only complaint I have is some minor aching, stiffness, and the fact that I gained 10# of fat as I haven't worked out for so long!! I'm hoping to go on a week long mountain bike trek sometime in May or June. To TMH: That sounds very strange, I would have a talk with your orthopedic surgeon. Dr. John

Dr. John
January 25, 2006 10:45 AM

Forgot to say that I have not worn any type of brace at all. My orthopedist thinks it impedes recovery and does not believe in bracing. He said surgery was done so I won't have to wear a brace!! Dr. John

Joe
January 25, 2006 10:55 AM

Hi, I tore my acl in Novemeber, during which I had minuscus damage too. I had surgery on Jan, 9, 05, using the patella tendon graft. I wanted to add that I hurt my knee twice, in two weeks during soccer games because of bad tackles. This was because after the first time, I was not diagonized correctly and was told that if I could run in a couple weeks I could play again ... yeah ! sucks! Even after the second time I was not diagonozed with an acl tare. But I was feeling unconfortable in the knee and went for a second opinion. An MRI came out positive. Just a note of caution, get multiple opinions and take the time off before you return to your activity. About the recovery, after surgery I had alot of pain for the first 4 days, but I also think this is because of the graft choice, I did not go off the bed during the first week except to shower and to use the bathroom. IT IS IMPORTANT HOWEVER TO MOVE THE JOINT, EXTEND THE KNEE TIGHTENING THE MUSCLES OF THE THIGH AND TRY TO FLEX THE JOINT AS MUCH AS YOU CAN as often you can. I started PT after 8 days of surgery and I could flex 90 degrees. I Still have pain in the patella area but the other parts of the knee are fine, this is supposed to be normal with this type of graft. PT is great there is some pain but all bareable. Good luck ..hope you dont have to do this but if you do, remember its extremely common.

jOE
January 25, 2006 3:02 PM

Hi Again, ACl tear Nov 2005, Surgery - 9 Jan 06, patella tendon. I have been reading the blogs and I got to say that people, including me want their recovery to be better and faster. We make comparisons to other people's recovery and in the bargin try to push our self to achieve what they have achieved in a certain time period. I got to say this, everyone's injury, bodies, surgery and recovery is unique. DO not push your self more than it needs to be pushed. BE discipline and patient. Remember that the injury keeps you away from sports for half a year at least, so why not wait a few months longer if you need to. If the acl graft is not a success yoy will ultimaely loose more playing time. I have three teammates you have had the same surgery two with BPT and 1 hamstring and it has been, 6, 15 and 20 years since their surgery. All were successful and they all give me the same advice I have listed above. So be patient and positive.

jOE
January 25, 2006 3:03 PM

Hi Again, ACl tear Nov 2005, Surgery - 9 Jan 06, patella tendon, age 33. I have been reading the blogs and I got to say that people, including me want their recovery to be better and faster. We make comparisons to other people's recovery and in the bargin try to push our self to achieve what they have achieved in a certain time period. I got to say this, everyone's injury, bodies, surgery and recovery is unique. DO not push your self more than it needs to be pushed. BE discipline and patient. Remember that the injury keeps you away from sports for half a year at least, so why not wait a few months longer if you need to. If the acl graft is not a success yoy will ultimaely loose more playing time. I have three teammates you have had the same surgery two with BPT and 1 hamstring and it has been, 6, 15 and 20 years since their surgery. All were successful and they all give me the same advice I have listed above. So be patient and positive.

TMH
January 25, 2006 3:55 PM

Thanks to all for the advice.

liz
January 25, 2006 8:02 PM

hey. my name is liz, 17 years old. i have recently returned to my varsity basketball season, coming off of 4 1/2 months since my acl reconsturction. i have played in 5 games so far, increasing my minutes each game. in my past basketball career i was used to scoring around 10 points a game, being a strong rebounder and a main contributor to the team... since i have returned, i have felt like i'm no where where i once was. im averaging about 4 points a game and find myself hesitant to return to my aggresive rebounding self. my sports, volleyball and basketball have always been a positive thing for me but lately i have been feeling lots of frustration about my performance. its my senior season and having already missed volleyball and choosing not to continue my sports into college, i want to end my competitive sports career on a good note. i am, however, realistic and i do realize that i have to be patient and work myself back into the basektball rythm and i can't expect to be full force after 4 1/2 months since knee surgery. just wondering if anyone has gone or is going through a similar situation and can offer any inspiration or advice???? that would be deeply appreciated, i need some sort of support from people who are farmilar with my sitution! thanks and good luck to all who are in the process of returning to their normal lives after an acl reconstruction..you can do it! liz

Joe
January 26, 2006 2:39 PM

I had my surgery 1/24 for ACL tear and meniscus tears on 12/16. Had the donor tendon because I am 40. Day 2 post op not much pain. Spent 1 night in the hospital and happy I did. Still using the ice machine for 1 more day, visiting the doc on Monday for first follow up. I am so Happy this is finally underway, I can't wait to get back to running and playing sports.

Robert Bonser
January 26, 2006 4:30 PM

I am 18 and while at home for college break I tore my ACL and meniscus playing soccer. Along with that I bruised my bones and stretched my MCL. It was dissapointing, but I got surgery right away. The doctor repaired my meniscus and ACL using a piece of my patellar tendon. I was going to try out for the soccer team this year, but recover won't give me enough time to do that so i'm going to buy a bike and enter some races. Right now though on day 6, my knee more sore and swollen than it was the day after surgery! I hope the excercises aren't hurting it. Thanks for the info

Robert Bonser
January 26, 2006 4:54 PM

I meant to ask if anyone knows how long it takes for post-op swelling to go down? Also, if the swelling is getting worse, should I stop my PT? Thanks!

Leslie
January 27, 2006 3:00 AM

I just recently tore my acl skiing. I tore it Dec 23rd and had surgery Jan. 11th. It has been 2 weeks now since my surgery and seem to rehabing well. Although, I am wondering if anyone has experiance this....I am having a very uncomftable sinsation in my leg it starts from the inside of my ankle and goes up in the inside of my leg to my mid calf. It feels like a pin prick, burning, numbing sinsation. Almost like your leg is asleep but worse and i can't get any relief. Has anyone experianced this discomfort and if so what did you do or how long does it last? I went today to get an ultrasound on it to see if it was a blood clott but everything looked good...what else could it be?

mike
January 27, 2006 12:46 PM

I partially tore my acl my jr. of college playing football... I finished out the season and started my sr. season. I went 3 games until i was hit hard with my brace on and tore my acl completely along with my miniscus and bruised my femur pretty bad. I finished out the year despite the injury and got surgery a few months later. I am about 3 1/2 months out. I'm walking fine, lifting lighter waits for leg exercises, but i still cant run... I cant even jog properly without a limp or having bad pain. If I can give any advice, therapy right after the surgery and following months is so important. You must be religious about it or full strength wont come back. I intend on getting back on the field, I just didnt expect it to be this hard, this long after surgery...

jOE
January 28, 2006 8:23 AM

Robert Bonser, HI rob I had acl - BPT surgery on the 9th Jan 06, and I know what you are talking about, the pins and needles sensation in your leg. The same thing happened to me but in a weeks time most of it went away. I had asked my OS about this and he said that it was because of nerve damage during the surgery. IT takes longer in some people than others for nerve restoration. But there are somethings you can do to regain sensation. Try heat and cold treatments alternating, touch the area with your hands, massaging it lightly, sometimes use cotton (materials with different texture) to rub the area. This helps to regain sensation. Hope this helps, it wont harm so it cant hurt to try. Good luck. J

jOE
January 28, 2006 8:23 AM

Robert Bonser, HI rob I had acl - BPT surgery on the 9th Jan 06, and I know what you are talking about, the pins and needles sensation in your leg. The same thing happened to me but in a weeks time most of it went away. I had asked my OS about this and he said that it was because of nerve damage during the surgery. IT takes longer in some people than others for nerve restoration. But there are somethings you can do to regain sensation. Try heat and cold treatments alternating, touch the area with your hands, massaging it lightly, sometimes use cotton (materials with different texture) to rub the area. This helps to regain sensation. Hope this helps, it wont harm so it cant hurt to try. Good luck. J

Joan
January 30, 2006 11:27 AM

I had ACL repair 4 weeks ago and was showing excellent improvement until a week ago when I started having severe pain below my patella when I did full knee extension and when I would stand with my knee in full extension. When standing in full extension, my knee would also buckle forward. My doctor examined my knee and did xrays. He says I have a Cyclops lesion which occurs in about 11 % of ACL repairs and fibrous formation in the intraconlylar notch. He has scheduled me for arthroscopic surgery next Friday to clean this out Has anyone had this complication and how did you have it treated?

greg
January 31, 2006 6:35 AM

wow nice site here..... I had my left acl reconstructed 10 years ago .I was 38 @ the time and am way glad that I went through it...I remember rehab being stressed and worked very hard. I also remember that it seemed forever before my knee was stable and could really trust it...The muscles around my knee took forever too, to learn how to work again......10 years later I tore myright acl and chipped off a piece of cartlidge....I didn't want to have the surgery performed until the mri showed the chip floating in my knee....I am going in feb 3 06and having it done......Another thing that I personally can't stress enough to all the weekend warriors as myself...Have your legs in very good physical,strong shape before engaging inhigh mobility sports...I didn't,and am paying the price

Question for Liz
January 31, 2006 8:46 AM

I was just wondering about the time it took you to return. 4.5 months seems a bit too soon. Everything I read about athletes suggests that they wait at least 6 months before returning to play their respective sport. I am 2.5 months removed from my surgery and I am only able to walk. Physical therapist said I should be starting to do plyometrics/run in another 3 weeks or so. But he said returning to basketball for me would be about another 3 months.

to liz
January 31, 2006 8:47 AM

I was just wondering about the time it took you to return. 4.5 months seems a bit too soon. Everything I read about athletes suggests that they wait at least 6 months before returning to play their respective sport. I am 2.5 months removed from my surgery and I am only able to walk. Physical therapist said I should be starting to do plyometrics/run in another 3 weeks or so. But he said returning to basketball for me would be about another 3 months.

Alanna
January 31, 2006 9:19 AM

I am going in for ACL reconstruction Feb 2, 2006. I had a partial tear just over 2.5 years ago, playing soccer (planted leg to turn right, my upper leg turned but the bottom didn't; someone near by said they heard a sound from it, but i think i was destracted by the pain to hear it). I didn't get the injury checked out right away which was a big mistake. The tear tried to heal itself and therefore when i did go to get it checked out by several doctors and therapists no one could tell what exactly was the cause of the swelling and pain. After months of waiting in the health system here in Canada, i was finally able to get an MRI that showed torn cartiledge. I had a scope to take that out in Sept '04 and they also saw that my ACL was now healed but streached out from the former tear. They weren't sure how much it would affect the stability of my knee so they just left the ligament alone. Over the past year i found my knee extremely unstable. After lots of more waiting to get in to see a orthopedic surgeon. I will finally have my ACL reconstructed using a piece of my hamstring. I am 23 years old and healthy so it should go fairly well. wish me luck.

Mike
January 31, 2006 6:06 PM

My name is Michael I tore my acl during basketball just planting on it too hard, the day before the season started. Im 6''5 and have aspirations of playing college basketball, but this injury has set me back significantly. Has anyone here came back within 3 1/2-5 months wearing an acl brace?? I know it is pushing it but i have a history of being a quick healer(i tore my rotator cuff 2 years ago and came back in 4 months when they said 6). Has anyone done this, if so, what was the result? I also had a cadavore, i heard those recover significantly faster.

Mike
January 31, 2006 6:18 PM

My name is Michael I tore my acl during basketball just planting on it too hard, the day before the season started. Im 6''5 and have aspirations of playing college basketball, but this injury has set me back significantly. Has anyone here came back within 3 1/2-5 months wearing an acl brace?? I know it is pushing it but i have a history of being a quick healer(i tore my rotator cuff 2 years ago and came back in 4 months when they said 6). Has anyone done this, if so, what was the result? I also had a cadavore, i heard those recover significantly faster.

to mike
February 1, 2006 5:53 AM

im also undergoing therapy. i know its hard to just wait but you have to dude. ask yourself this, do you really want to go through this again? just wait another month or so. Better than hurting yourself again. i heard that most times, if they do surgery on an already surgically repaired acl, its 5 times more difficult to come back to the way you were before.

greg
February 1, 2006 6:39 AM

to alanna...... good luck thursday...im going through my surgery friday on my right knee.had the left reconstructed 10 years ago...want to keep in touch over rehab time?gonna be some long boring down time..

Alanna
February 1, 2006 11:35 AM

To Greg.... sure, we can compare notes as we heal. Good luck with your friday surgery.

Tanya
February 2, 2006 8:29 AM

I tore my ACL and my MCL on December 26 skiing. I just had surgery on January 26, so it has been one week today. I have been doing really well with PT and I have only had minor discomfort. One thing that is really strange is at night I get this really twitchy feeling in my leg. It is almost like my leg is saying -"Hey I'm tired!". Has anyone else experienced this?

mo
February 2, 2006 1:28 PM

I blew out my knee playing indoor as well! But I got tackled from behind when mine went! I really enjoyed reading about your experience, and would love to hear about everyone elses! Feel free to contact me at thereverendmo@thegraveyard.us I am having my surgery on the 10th. I did alot, and continue to do research on this procedure. I am looking forward to the long process of rehab, so that I can get back to playing again.

Sam
February 2, 2006 10:07 PM

TO ROBERT BONSER - You asked how long it would be for the swelling to go down, and if you should slow down your PT because of the swelling. I'm six weeks post-op (hamstring ACL reconstruction and meniscus repair) -- my swelling is nearly gone. HOWEVER, my Physical therapist seems to think she needs to get it swollen again. A good PT session will increase swelling significantly; icing three times per day, especially after PT is essential to control the swelling. BOTTOM LINE: DON'T STOP PT BECAUSE OF SWELLING; IT MEANS YOU'RE DOING IT RIGHT. TO ALANNA -- good luck with your surgery - three quick hitters 1. Go to PT the next day after surgery 2. get off prescription pain meds as soon as possible 3. Stay positive - you can do it... TO MIKE - you mentioned returning to basketball after 3.5 months w/ a brace. I just spoke to my surgeon about the pros/cons of wearing a sports brace... Surprisingly, he said that a recent study showed that more people were injured (post-surgery) wearing a sports brace than wearing none. This seems to confirm what Dr. John said earlier about wearing a brace. PROGRESS REPORT Again six weeks post-op, I have just been given the green light by my surgeon to ditch my brace for good. (My first night-sleep last night without the AWFUL, STINKY brace was heavenly...) I walked one-half mile today on the treadmill - I'm doing 30 min/day on the bike. My doctor said that I'll be able to start running within 3-4 weeks. QUESTION FOR DR. JOHN - You mentioned that your orthepedist recommended no brace at all. For a police officer, what is your opinion of whether I should return to work with a sports brace or without, to prevent the possibility of injury? Given the study mentioned earlier? Good luck everyone!

Kuriakose
February 3, 2006 8:28 AM

Its been 10 weeks since my acl reconstruction. i had the cadaver graft. my physical therapist said i should be starting plyometrics in 2 weeks probably. my knee feels great. the only thing up to now that was bothering me was when i would walk down the stairs, now that doesnt bother me at all. i still have al little swelling, but my thigh is getting stronger and firmer. -when do you stop "needing" a physical therapist and just do the home exercises by yourself?

Jo
February 3, 2006 4:00 PM

Hi , I am 3 weeks 5 days in post op. I visited my PT the first time after 8 days of the surgery (BPTP). I had flexion of 90 deg at the time. Although I did not go to PT the day after, I used to try and extend the leg and flex it the day after (although you can just bend it 20 deg at the time) as strongly recomended by my OS. I took off my brace to sleep a week ago (on consulting with my doctor) and today was the first day I walked without my brace or crutches at PT. By the way I go to PT twice a week but do my excercises regularly at home. My PT told me I should walk without the brace and crutches at home and with my crutches only when I go outside. I do have a little swelling but its not too bad. Mostly the Patella area hurts me, but its not bad at all. I have 120 deg flexion at the moment. My PT tells me that every one has different stages of heeling. Some people show alot of improvement in the begining but can slow down later and others have slow heelong and it speeds up progressively. My recommendation is that dont gauge your self with others, just work hard at your rehab and be patient. Good luck !

Dr. John
February 3, 2006 6:31 PM

Well this will be my last entry as I'm 4 weeks post op ACL and medial meniscus repair. I have full flexion and extention. The knee still swells a little bit and gets stiff but not much pain. I can go up and down 7 flights of stairs at work with some effort and mild pain. Doing about 20 minutes of elliptical and 20 minutes of stationary bike daily. My ACL surgery and recovery has gone better than I expected and I'm on my way to going on a mountain bike expedition in July, and my first skiing trip post surgery(I tore it skiing last April) probably in January of 2007, or December of this year. Those things keeps me motivated to work hard on my PT. Good luck to you all.

Gina
February 3, 2006 10:43 PM

Hi my name is Gina and I'm 17, I had ACL reconstruction and meniscus repair in December of 2003. I was injured during a soccer game, when a girl came from behind and ran into my left knee. I was planning on getting back into soccer the next year, 2004 during the fall, but I never did. At times I still have some discomfort, but other times it feels great.In the very beginning after my surgery running didn't feel that great, it was really akward adjusting to my knee. One knee feels completely normal and the other, well you know. I had to find a balance. I was wondering if anyone knew of any great exercising activities that I could do, running doesn't seem to be the trick that.I wish I would of known about this site then, it would of helped me with some of my questions. thanks if anyone has any ideas....

Mike
February 4, 2006 1:06 PM

its been 2 weeks post op now... I have most of my flexibility back( I can almost get it straight and i can bend it to about 60 degrees). I feel like i could walk on it but im not allowed because i also had a pretty bad meniscus tear, I have to wait for that to heal up before i can walk...It should be about another 2 weeks untill im allowed to walk. I cant go really hard in rehab also for that same reason. I guess its going overall pretty well, just boring and I hate the crutches But i heard somthing that got me kind of nervous. I read an artical saying that cadavores are not a good choice at all for athletes. Has anyone here had a cadavore and got back to 100 percent in a cutting sport like basketball?

greg
February 6, 2006 7:09 AM

i had my surgery friday 2-3-06....acl reconstruction. repair meniscus and clean up. and worse news.. a piece of cartldge about the size of a 50 cent piece chipped off. the dr could not get it to reattach, says there wasnt enough bone to secure it, so the piece of cartlidge has been sent to boston to harvest its own cells. after 7 weeks they will implant this and i cannot move my knee for 3 wks or so. anyone heard of this procedure? if i donot have this done i will be looking at a joint replacement in or before 3 yrs(please excuse the lack of medical terms, im an hvac guy)

Robert
February 6, 2006 9:27 PM

I am now a little over 2 weeks post op of my ACL and meniscus repair. My surgeon did not schedule me for PT because he said that I would not need it since i am young and in college. Right now I can bend about 90 degrees and I can walk almost normally with partial weight bearing on the crutches.I don't know if I can hurt it because of my meniscus repair or not? Anyhow, I keep on working on my calf and especially quad muscle. Hoping to be able to do swimming to strengthen it in a week or so. I am looking forward to being able to walk around campus without being crippled! If anyone has any good PT suggestions for me I would appreciate it. Thanks. I hope everyone elses recovery is very swift and productive!

Eugene
February 7, 2006 9:03 PM

i had acl surgery (hamstring) and a repaired minsicus 6 weeks ago. I was cleared to walk about 2 weesk ago. and I havent been doing anything crazy just wallking around alot but now i feel it pop and crack. is this normal???????

K
February 8, 2006 11:37 AM

Is there anyone here who was able to run 4 months after surgery?

greg
February 9, 2006 7:30 AM

run back to the surgery table....... slow down and let the body heal.. the graft takes atleast 6 months to become strong again

lorrie
February 9, 2006 10:16 AM

I am 36 yr old female, godd to very good shape: 3.5 mile powerwalking everyday, eliptical, weight training, yoga, etc. I have had 2 previous scopes for ACL tear 9just trimmed up) and meniscus tear. I have been able to keep the stability in my knee fro the past three years by having strong quads and hams. Last week My knee twsted, popped and gave way. Since then it has done this several times. I have had minimal swelling, burning sensation, very little stability. My knee went out on me yesterday and I actually fell. I walked today on treadmill with no porblems ( I did wear my DonJoy brace). I go to my ortho today. From past experience, i am pretty sure I've damaged the ACL further. My question is "Is the ACL reconstruction absolutely painful? Is it worth it? I have 4 kids, one that is 11 mos. old. If I do this, I need to do it before school is out for summer. Opinions????

lorrie
February 9, 2006 10:20 AM

I am 36 yr old female, good to very good shape: 3.5 mile powerwalking everyday, eliptical, weight training, yoga, etc. I have had 2 previous scopes for ACL tear (just trimmed up) and meniscus tear, both injuries from soccer. I have been able to keep the stability in my knee for the past three years by having strong quads and hams. Last week my knee twisted, popped and gave way. Since then, it has done this several times. I have had minimal swelling, burning sensation, very little stability. My knee went out on me yesterday and I actually fell. I walked today on treadmill with no porblems ( I did wear my DonJoy brace). I go to my ortho today. From past experience, I am pretty sure I've damaged the ACL further. My question is "Is the ACL reconstruction absolutely painful? Is it worth it? I have 4 kids, one that is 11 mos. old. If I do this, I need to do it before school is out for summer. Opinions????

Jo
February 9, 2006 12:50 PM

To lorri, Hi, I jsut had acl surgery and I can say that my procedure was painful. But I have spoken to many people who have had the reconstruction and it varies from person to person. What I know is that the graft type is the most crutial part in determining pain.. From what I hear ..The Patella tendon (BPT) graft followed by the hamstring graft and then the allograft are in the order of decreasing pain. I did the patella tendon graft and it knocked me out for the first 4-5 days (pain wise). But one guy who is in PT with me and did an allograft said that the epidural was more painful than the surgery. I guess the results are more or less the same. The BPT graft had the longest track record but OS's often inform about the pain related to this procedure. The one thing to worry about the allograft besides desease (which is a minor concern) is that your body should not reject it. This is also rare. There is alot of material on the net about the graft choices and before I chose mine I read a lot about it. People return to walking without crutches after 10-14 days without crutches and from what you say about your fitness it looks like thats an easy milestone to achieve. Hope this helped. Good Luck! Jo

K
February 9, 2006 1:33 PM

anybody coem back to play ball 4 months after ACL reconstruction?

John
February 9, 2006 3:23 PM

Hi' My daughter had ACL surgery a week ago.Her leg around her calf and ancle is brused and swollen,is this normal after one week of surgery we are very concern. Thanks

linda
February 9, 2006 3:55 PM

my daughter will be having acl surgery in march. she has no pain or swelling and can walk normally, do you think her surgery and recovery would be easier, since she has no pain or discomfort. she is 13yrs.

Robert
February 9, 2006 4:05 PM

To: John I am no expert, but I can share my experince. 6 or 7 days post-op I had to go to the emergency room because my lower leg (calf area) was very swollen and bruised. When I went, the doctor said that this was perfectly normal and was partially due to the way I had the ACE bandages wrapped. I had a slight fever, which he also said was normal with the swelling. When I went to my surgeon, he explained that there is a pocket in the lower leg that holds the blood there. So my only advice is make sure the ACE bandages are wrapped from the quad down to the foot, continue the PT, and keep it elevated and iced. This is what helped me. From what the doctors said, this is completely normal and there is nothing to worry about unless the fever gets worse or there is redness going up the leg (a sign of infection). I hope this helps

Robert
February 9, 2006 4:11 PM

To Linda: I tore my acl and menicus playing soccer. I iced it right away and could walk normally with no pain or swelling also. My recovery has gone great so far and I am progressing well. Although, I am not sure if it is due to the fact that there is no pain or swelling. The hardest part of recovery is getting the quadricep muscle back to full strength to stabilize the knee. I have been reading, and studies have shown that anything done to strengthen the quad muslce BEFORE surgery may increase the rate of healing. Again, I am no expert, but I would reccomend from my own experience that your daughter excercise her quad as much as possible before surgery. This should really help in recovery!

linda
February 9, 2006 4:37 PM

my daughter will be having acl surgery in march. she has no pain or swelling and no discomfort walking, does her chances of a speedier recovery seem likely.

Dr. john
February 9, 2006 6:19 PM

To "K": I am post op 5 weeks ACL and meniscus repair. By patellar allograft. I can jog for a short distance, but if you mean a 100 yard dash, no. Be realistic. Eddgerin James of the Indianapolis colts tore his ACL and returned to play a year later, but he was not a player he was before the tear until two years after the surgery. And he's a great athlete with good work ethics. Give it at least 6 months, better yet 9 months before going back to play "ball".

Joe F
February 12, 2006 7:52 AM

Almost 3 weeks post op and I am able to bend over 90 degrees and put my knee straight. Around the house and short trips I have ditched the crutches, one issue that has started is my knee seems to lock when I attempt to bend sometimes and occasionally it seems to need to crack like a knuckle. Everything else has been great. Is this normal with swelling going down and PT going normally? I am hoping it is just part of the recovery. I have added my last initial, too my Joe's with blown acl's out there.

Yulia
February 12, 2006 8:10 AM

To Dr. John. I agree. It does take anywhere from 6 months to a year before the new ACL is fully healed.I am still dancing everyday. I go to my one doctor next week, and If I have time I'll ask my PT guy about my knee. I spoke to him in january, but I didn't get to ask him why my knee gives out at times when i turn laterally and why does it feel like there is too much play in. I wish you the best. How long are people on crutches after they have theACL reconsruction (without meniscal repairs)?? You can email me back at alianna_hodiya@yahoo.com I can answer some questions that I know. if I don't know it I will find out for you. Good luck

Courtney Chadney
February 13, 2006 3:24 PM

Hey everyone. I want to think whoever started this website with the diary it helped me alot. I'm a senior in high school and I tore my ACL and meniscus while playing soccer. I'm proud to announce that I am 2 months out of surgery, I had the patella transplant, and I am already juggling with the ball and jogging. Doctor says I won't be able to fully play with contact untill July or August which would put my recovery time at 8-9 months. I'm recovering quickly though, and I have no doubt I'll be better when I go back. Thanks for the diary, Courtney

Gabrielle
February 13, 2006 3:47 PM

I tore my acl, mcl and meniscus. I am 3 weeks out of surgery. I ditched the crutches when walking around the house about a week or more ago. I still take a crutch to school, parties and places i know i will be up and walking around a lot. The first week after surgery was absolute hell, but now i have minimal pain, the worst is when i have been on it too long. I have been going to pt 3 times a week, and should be back to playing hopefully in about 5 1/2 months. ( 6 months after surgery) I play soccer, tennis and ski. Oh yeah, i can bend my knee to about 145 degress, the physical therapist says that it is great. And hopefully i will be running in the next month, at the earliest though.

linda
February 14, 2006 8:00 AM

To: courtney, I am so happy to hear your recovery is going so well. My daughter will be having surgery in march, and she can't wait to play soccer again. she plays all year on a travel team, and misses it terribly. keep us posted on your recovery.

Alanna
February 14, 2006 11:18 AM

Thursday feb 16th will be my two week mark since my ACL surgery. My hamstring was not used to replace it like i originally thought. My petellar tendon was used instead. My Dr. said it is better to use that in younger people b/c it doesn't stretch out over time like the hamstring does. Recovery is going well. Lots of lying around. I made the mistake one week after surgery of trying to get up and around the house more, which caused the swelling to travel down to my ankle. Elevate, elevate, elevate people (and lot of icing). I am sure most of you are told, but watch out for putting pillows under your leg. You want it to be as straight as possible so your leg doesn't heal bent. At this point i have 90 degree of flexion at my knee, but i really need to focus on building my quads so i can do a straight leg lift. I find that difficult to do at the moment. The pain happens when the quads pull on my petella. I was fully off my pain meds after 10 days and the last two days i only had one to sleep comfortable during the night. GREG - Good luck with your muniscus procedure. p.s. I know this may seem like too much info, but if you are going to have surgery take stool softeners afterwards!!! The anesthesia (and probably other meds) often cause constipation. I had this conversation with a friend aswell. Trust me it is good to know, if you can prevent it.

Curtis B
February 14, 2006 1:53 PM

Hey, I tore my acl in march on a rugby tour for my school and had surgery on it in mid to late april (i forget). Anway my therapy has gone great, my "bad" leg is literaly stronger then my other leg at the moment. But, i'm still worried about my acl and if it could take a bit of a rattle. Should i be sitting out.. again.. this sason?

ismary
February 14, 2006 8:20 PM

I tore my ACL ligament and Meniscus 2 weeks ago. I am now on a 4 week rehab program before I see the doctor and discuss surgery. He didn't claim I needed it, but I am going that route. I am confused. I am scared. I have a 3 year old that needs 100% of me. I am not even sure what type of graft I should go for. I need your comments. Thanks

Tanya
February 15, 2006 7:03 AM

I had ACL surgery on January 26. I'm doing really well with my PT and am already out of my brace. The biggest problem I seem to be having now is walking. I still walk with my leg stiff. It is always better after I work out, but my PT says I need to remember to bend it. Anyone else experienced this?

Joe F
February 15, 2006 11:37 AM

3 weeks post op with donor acl. Up to 122 degrees bend this morning at PT, I have decided to lose the brace unless I am going somewhere far. Riding the bike and doing treadmill, very slowly on both but it makes a big difference. Exercises are the key, each day gets easier!

Mike
February 15, 2006 7:09 PM

Im about 3 and a half weeks post op and just got off my crutches becasue of my meniscus tear. My trainer is saying i am doing the best of any acl patient shes had, being ahead of schedual without having done any weightbearing. I can walk, and probably have about 125 degress of motion. I can stand on one foot, calf raises, wall sits all that easily, im acually wishing my trainer would make me do harder things.Maybe its because Im young, but honestly this process has not been that bad at all. FYI, my doc said at about the 6 week mark, your acl will start rerouting the bloodstream to the acl, and for some reason your knee will start to feel really good, to the point where you could jog, cut, sprint, whatever.Beware, because this is acually the weakest point for your acl, so its good from a everyday standpoint, but dont push it. So im gonna kinda take my sucess so far with a grain of salt, ill really start bragging at about the 1 1/2- 2 month mark, lol.

K
February 16, 2006 8:42 AM

Hi, its been 3 months since my ACL surgery now. I can tell you all that i've honestly had basically no pain in doing anything. I had my surgery (cadaver graft) done at UPenn and the doctor was great. Physical therapy is going really well too. I've never experienced pain with my knee any point. Yesterday I started my first hopping and plyometrics exercise since the surgery. Again, no pain at all. Just a slight discomfort when I was hopping laterally but it was very minimal. I also found it to be a little easier when I jumped and landed on my toes, instead of my toes and heels. My physical therapist said I should be starting a running program in about 2.5 weeks. Im looking forward to finally getting back in shape and running. I still go over to the gym and watch my friends intramural games and stuff. It's so funny that everyone kind of takes their ability to run and jump and all that stuff for granted. Its when you cant do that, that you're forced to take a step back, and just marvel at what your body is able to do.

linda
February 17, 2006 8:37 AM

to: k how old are you, it is nice to hear you are doing so well. when you start running, how fast will they push you, is your injury from soccer or another sport?

John
February 17, 2006 7:01 PM

Just had acl surgery 3 and a half weeks ago, brace crutches off, already feels like a new knee, im runnin (slow) with no pain, jumpin a bit and everything is awesome, look to be back to start baseball in the spring

Bleed
February 18, 2006 9:35 AM

I had a complete acl tear winter 2005 pullin an x-up 360 at Homewood Tahoe (sat back in the saddle on the landing and compressed) and just had surgery Jan 2006. I elected the hamstring graph because my doctor was a "pro" at this type of procedure.Everone seems to be getting the patellar graph because thier doctors are more comfortable with this type of procedure- so do your doctor homework. I have also read numerous articles about the failure rates, in terms of Newtons, with these 2 types of graphs- the patellar graph as a higher Newton failure rate at a whopping 2600N.Now im not a professional athlete but I do like my wakeboarding and snowskiing with a high intensity level. I was assured by my doc that I was going to be happier in "the long run" with the hamstring procedure. Oh by the way he has done several "pro" basketball players with this same type of procedure. It has been 7 days since my surgery and I am at 100* of motion with very little pain if any and a slight limp. The key here is to be in tip top leg shape before your procedure, use the cpm machine above and beyond protocall, ice, and find a good doc at the hamstring procedure.Also an agressive rehab clinic doesnt hurt either.I have read too may articles where people say they have a great deal of knee pain and graph failure with the patellar procedure but the choice in ultimately yours so make a wise one and educate yourself. Go Kings!

Dan C
February 18, 2006 12:00 PM

I had acl repair 8 days ago, using the patella tendon from the other leg. The doc is very agressive in recovery, i was walking the next day, with out crutches or brace. By the thrid day i had 140 degrees of flex and full straight to hyper-extention. I never used crutches or brace, the pain sux even with pain killers but i was driving on day 6 and walking inside the store. I rode the stationary bike for the second time yesterday for 45 mins at 80 rpm, level 6 for 9.5 miles. Anyone that needs repair should check this guy out! Other doctors said 6-9 mths before full release to your sport, this doc says 3 mths and you can do what ever you want! Time for more meds, later.

Mike
February 18, 2006 12:39 PM

im about 4 weeks post op now, walking without a limp and rehabing easily, Im getting fustrated with my rehab people, i understand not wanting to push it too hard, but i am a very in shape 16 year old athlete w/ college aspirations, but they are rehabing me like im a 50 year old. Everything is going well so far except when i stand sometimes, and "lock" my knee, when i release it there is a slight pop on the outside of my knee. It doesnt hurt or anything, but i feel it. I know what your thinking, and no i didnt tear my acl again, i know how that feels and no its not that kind of pop. i suspect i might have tore my meniscus a little.

Robert
February 18, 2006 10:59 PM

Mike, I'm exactly 4 weeks post-op also. I had a patellar ACL reconstruction with meniscal repair. Because of the meniscal repair, i just got off my crutches and I am walking pretty well with a brace. But if it is any consolation, I experienced the exact same popping sensation on the outside of my knee. As you described, it does not hurt at all. I don't think anything is wrong, so I'm hoping it is normal.

linda
February 19, 2006 7:56 AM

to: Bleed THANK YOU FOR THE INSPIRATION, MY DAUGHTER WILL BE HAVING THE HAMSTRING GRAFT IN MARCH, KEEP POSTING YOUR PROGRESS.

Dr. John
February 19, 2006 12:26 PM

I'm post op 5 weeks ACL repair via patellar allograft and medial meniscus repair. I'm doing well with full flexion and extention. I'm walking with a slight limp, able to jog slowly, and can go "forever" on the bike. I've been working religiously on my rehab. exercises, at least 2 hours a day. However, I took two days off the rehab exercises as my knee and my back was hurting so bad. I felt much better with less swelling,pain, and stiffness of my knee with a little rest. Could I be over doing it? I know with weight lifting you have to "rest" your muscle for a day or two so that it can have chance to "recover" and "heal". Anybody know if a person could over-do P.T. thus hindering recovery? Anyone with similar experience? I'm a 48 year old male who wants to go back to doing mogul skiing next season. Would appreciate any advice, Dr. John

Mike
February 19, 2006 12:39 PM

Dr. John I wouldnt be jogging this soon if i were you,you need to give the acl a chance to vascularize before you start pushing it, jogging 5 weeks post op you arent doing anything but hurting your recovery. Im not a doctor, but i wouldnt suggest going 2 hours a day, if you really want to get aggresive, do your rehab excersices 2wice as much as your rehabist told you, which shouldnt take more then 40 mins, then spend the rest of the time icing down your knee, while doing knee hangs. But once again dont jog yet,concentrate on strenthaning your quad and flexion and such, you should be in the clear to jog within 3-5 weeks. If you really have an itch to work out, use a bike.

Cathy
February 19, 2006 12:41 PM

I had my ACL repaired 5 days ago on Valentines Day (outpatient surgery). I tore mine while playing soccer. I heard and felt the infamous "pop" and dropped to the ground. Anyway,after hearing some horror stories about the pain after surgery, I feel lucky as I have only had minor pain (relative to my first childbirth experience). I stopped the Vicodin after 2.5 days because it made me nauseous and dizzy. My Doctor recommended using donor tissue and assured me that their supplier of tissue has an excellent quality assurance program, etc. I'm still a little nervous about some of the issues in the news about donated tissue lately, but, ultimately, I decided to trust her. Our daughters play on the same soccer team and we have known each other for quite some time now and I don't think she would lead me astray. I'm 45 and hope to be back to my active lifestyle as soon as possible. I can walk around the house without my crutches or braces but will probably wear the brace when I leave the house for added protection. The CPM is amazing!!! I credit my good range of motion and low pain level to my "leg-moving machine". I'm supposed to use it for 8 hours a day (2 hour intervals) and then sleep with it on at night. I use it for about half the night - on and off. Also, the ice machine has helped reduce the swelling and I will continue to use that for as long as possible. Thanks for all the posts to this site. I have learned so much!

nathan laakso
February 19, 2006 3:23 PM

yo, i just had acl reconstruction about 3 weeks ago, Im in canada and having given a slightly differenct approach to my repair. I had the regular hamstring graft and two biodegradable screws, 9 staples to seal it etc. Im 22, tore it in indoor soccer and wanted it repaired to be able to play again. I heard more of a velcrow ripping sound more than a pop. My surgery sucked. I was over night and up all night vomitting at the hospital. The PT told me as well as the doctor that i should use the crutches for 6 weeks., while using partial weight bearing for that time. Im doign my excercises 3 times a day and icing well. Im up to 102 degree flexing right now but ive seem to plateau. why are so many people on crutches for less than me>? sucks, i hate crutches. hope my experience helps someone.

joe
February 20, 2006 7:40 AM

Hi, I just had acl surgery 4 days ago, I am on perks for pain and ibuprofin for swelling and asprin for clotting. I have had no pain from the knee since the acl and mcl tear. I am on crutches and have been using the cpm machine. When i get to 100 degrees it said to return the machine. I am already at 100 and have good flexability. I can limp without crutches and have driven my car the 4th day after surgery. I am pleasently suprised, the nausea i had was only hours after the surgery. I would have to say that i expected much worse, anyone preparing for acl surgery should not worry so much!!

Rosie Lumetta
February 20, 2006 11:21 AM

Hi I had ACL replacement with a patillia allograft on Feb 8th. Frankly, I found the pain excrutiating for the first 4 days, but I have a low tolerance so I've been on Vicodin and Percodan but have greatly reduced the dosage. I'm now able to walk slowly and carefully. From talking with others - for those considering surgery, I'd definitely recommend the allograft as then you have only one major incision site. I trust my doctor and asked him if he'd be willing to use one and that was the deciding factor for me. I start PT today but have been doing exercises at home and feel that's the key to a speedy recovery. Also, for those facing surgery - if possible, have someone stay with you for at least the first 5 days or so. Rosie

d
February 20, 2006 6:30 PM

i had ma acl fixed damn dat shit fucked up i caint walk wiff out ma brace the way ma kneee looked when i unwraped it i thnk im neva go b able to walk goood again but dats not go happen cuz da doctor go do pt on me and ima b str8 i dono who eva tore there acl fix it it aint a bad expiriance cuz u gotta stay in da cirb for a min

poorna chander reddy
February 21, 2006 10:57 AM

it has been 3 months of my acl surgery,first month was difficult in my life with pain and days progressed and my pain was not as much it was in first month,performing physical excersice is must and iam feeling fine and knee got stable and could perform normal actions without much of pain

Dr John
February 21, 2006 3:38 PM

Thanks "M". I was over doing it. My knee feels a lot better and even stronger when I let up on the PT. Dr. John

Kelli
February 22, 2006 6:12 AM

My daugther (14) had her ACL replaced and her cartlidge repaired on August 1st. They used her hamstring as her replacement and she walked on crutches for 3 months. She did therapy for 6 months and has recently been released from the doctor to start her sports activities again. She is a little scared of re-tearing this ACL again but is very eager to re-join sports. Has anyone else been released after six months and turned around and had this surgery again? Is there anything you can do that will enable your ACL to continue to get stronger? Thanks for the advise.

jo
February 22, 2006 2:37 PM

Hi Kelli, I am quite surprised that your daughter had to be on crutches for 3 months. I had BPTB acl reconstruction and I am about 6 weeks post op. I can walk normally and lost the brace 3 weeks, crutches 4 weeks post op. According to my doctor, I would be able to return to sport (Soccer) in 6 months, but after my last visit, yesterday, he told me after 6 more weeks they would strain test the leg and based on the progress so far said I could play in 4.5 - 5 months. Returning to sports after 6 months is common but varies from patient to patient. Its also normal to get over your injurn mentally which normally takes longer than the physical process. One way to prevent damage to the acl is to strengthen the thigh muscles, which really offer alot of stability and less strain to the knee ligaments. Good luck if you have any further questions ..you can e-mai me at joniell@hotmail.com

Yeslek
February 22, 2006 4:13 PM

I just tore my ACL, I am a girl. My softball career is over. I'm depressed. I'm gaining weight day by day. Tomorrow I have to start dieting. I have surgery next week. El doctor esta tomando de mi hamstring.

Denise Menard
February 22, 2006 6:48 PM

Hi there, Hi there, I'm having my ACL reconstructed using a portion of my hamstring. I'm curious to know what is the expected time before I can return to work. I'm a health care aid, mainly giving meds and monitoring oxygen etc., but I am on my feet constantly. I also run and would like to know what a realistic time frame would be before I can introduce running again. I realize that all cases are unique but a guideline would be helpful. So many questions I forgot to ask the surgeon. Any advice that you can give will be fantastic. Denise

Daniel Kaufmann
February 22, 2006 10:02 PM

Hey, I tore my ACL about three years ago skiing, i am now 17 years old and i am already seeing signs of arthritis pain in my knee. If anyone is thinking about opting out on the oppotunity to get reconstruction after the initial tear or complete rip of the ACL, my advice is to not do this, i think in a few years down the road i will probably have to go in for knee surgery anyways, might as well get it over with

Tim
February 23, 2006 6:07 AM

to anyone who has had surgery in the past 3 years: How many months after surgery did your doctor clear you to start jogging and cutting? I am just wondering. I am eager to get back but will have to wait until my doctor allows me to.

Cathy
February 24, 2006 7:20 AM

A friend of mine postponed having her ACL reconstructed and is also sorry she waited. Not just because of arthritis though. Her new health insurance said it was a pre-existing condition and they would not pay for it! It's been 10 days since my ACL surgery and, other than some discomfort at night, I'm doing great. I'm going to get rid of my CPM machine and ice machine today. I rode the bike slowly for 10 minutes yesterday with the seat up higher than normal. My 4th PT session is this afternoon. I'm off crutches and the brace. I had 8 weeks of PT prior to surgery because they were not sure if it was a torn ACL at first. This really helped in my recovery. From what I've heard and read, the stronger you are going into surgery, the better and quicker your recovery. I'm going back to work next week (2 weeks off) but am going to make sure I put my leg up on a chair when I'm sitting for at least part of the time, to help straighten it out. Good luck to all!

Eliot Lee
February 24, 2006 8:17 AM

Hello all, Great Web site! It really helped to read this Web site before my ACL surgery, which took place three days ago, Feb 21, 2006. I completely blew out my ACL in my left knee during a freak ski accident on January 20, 2006 (skiing down a green beginner run, heading to the lodge for lunch). In addition to my ACL, the MCL was badly bruised, and is still healing. The surgeon wanted me to wait a month for the MCL to heal more before going into surgery. Anyway, the pain has started to subside. I am using that CPM machine, up to 50 degree flex from 30 degree flex. I stopped icing the knee yesterday. I am still taking the pain med, Percocet. But last night I only had to take one dose to get through the night. I've been able to do some work the last couple days, although with the pain meds, I can't concentrate for very long. It's a blessing that I work for a company that supports telecommuting, so I don't have to take too many days off of work. I'll be staying home, working from home for at least the next week, then I venture out for the surgery post-op appt (to get my stitches out) and first PT appt on March 9, 2006. I know it's probably a long time to go for the first PT, but since I have to drive myself, I didn't think this coming week was going to be a good time to drive myself to PT and back. I live about an hour from the city, up in the mountains, so it's difficult even for public transportation. But with the CPM machine and also pushing myself to do basic stuff, like walking around the cabin and up and down the porch stairs, I think I'll be okay. Thanks again for this wonderful blog! It really helped to desensitize myself before the surgery, since I typically do not fair very well with the medical establishment.

Alanna
February 24, 2006 9:41 AM

To Nathan Laakso: I am also 3 weeks post op. I am also in canada and told i would need crutches 4-6 weeks. Yesterday i went from using 2 crutches with some weight bearing to using just one crutch. I hope to be rid of that one by the beginning of march as i am returning to work on monday. My flexion as of yesterday was also 102 degrees. It sounds like we are on a similar path. Good luck. To Dr. John: It sounds as though you may be pushing your self a bit to hard. As a personal trainer i tell my clients that the amount you work out is just as important as rest time. You need to give your body rest so it can work on repairing and building up strength after the workout. When building muscle with exercise, you create micro tears that need time to repair (48 hours) and adapt to the new workload, before you should work them out again. I hope this can help you with your rehab.

Sean Sander
February 24, 2006 6:02 PM

Great blog. Completely tore my ACL playing a indoor soccer game 11/23/05. 10 minutes into the game I was moving right with the ball at my right foot and a guy clipped me in my left knee forcing my weight to shift to my left foot. With my left foot planted at 12:00 trying to hold and my body weight moving toward 9:00 my left knee gave out. Heard no pop but had intense pain for 10-15 minutes that eased up but not enough to going back in playing. Having never had a knee injury before I just thought I had a hyper extension. Went to the doctor 5 days later who scheduled a mri that revealed a complete acl tear and meniscus tear. Alot of damage for a relatively easy hit. If only I had flopped and just let that leg go instead of trying to stay up. I went to see 2 doctors. Both recommended a patellar tendon graft if I wanted to play soccer or basketball again. 1 DR specialized in autografts (your own tissue) the other DR with an allografts (donor/cadaver). After considerable research I decided to go with the allograft. 2 things that impacted my decision were my age 43 - I knew there was a good chance the donor tissue would be younger than mine - turns out my donor was in their early 20's. It also appears that about 1 in 3 with autografts have difficulting kneeling. The downside is there is some risk of disease hiv about 1-2 million to 1 (I hope I am lucky safe). If I was in my teens, 20's or even early 30s I would have gone with the autograft. A good site to visit is www.orthoassociates.com/ACL_grafts.htm. I am also told that no matter what I have to be very disciplined and not play for 6 months even if the knee feels good because it takes that long for the donor tissue to be taken over by your cells and be strong enough to play. On 1/31/06 I had the acl surgery on my left knee and turns out both meniscus had to be trimmed/repaired I also had surgery on my right foot to correct a bunion and straighten my big toe after I broke it previously playing soccer. I was putting that surgery off becuz I was afraid of surgery but when the acl happened I decided to do them both (really tough the 1st 2 weeks after surgery but things got easier after that and I am really happy I did both surgery together). I stayed overnight and I strongly recommend that if you can. It is easier on you and your family. If you have never had surgery like me check with your family to see if they get sick from anesthesia. My mom does and I told the doctor this and they gave me an anti nausea pill and put something in the anesthesia and I did not get sick. Ate like a pig 1 hour after I woke up. A couple of setbacks I had after surgery were the settling of blood from my surgery below my kneecap which resulted in an extremely painful bruise - whenever I stood up - like the worse shin plints you have ever had. The doctor said this sometimes happens and it is often the knee between the straps on your knee brace. I also was itchy for 2-3 days after surgery which cleared up when they switched my pain killers from percoset to vitodin. Percoset kills the pain much better but I couldn't stand the itching side effect. Highly recommend the cpm machine, elevating, ice machine, pain pills (no pain no gain does not apply here), and plenty of rest. Went to therapy 2 days after surgery and 3 days a week since then. Have been doing the exercises, icing it and resting, elevating it I believe really makes a difference. The stocking also keeps the swelling down. Vitamin E on the incisions and messaging them helps with the scarring and scar tissue I am told. Had 76 degree of motion the first day of therapy now up to 122 degrees. I started ride the bike this week can walk at home without crutches and brace and up the stairs. Still use the crutches outside not taking any chances in the WI ice and snow also got a temporary handicap tag to avoid long walks in the bad weather.

jesse cervantez
February 25, 2006 2:34 PM

great blog. It really prepared me for what I was expecting. I tore my acl coming down the stairs. Stupid I know, but my right leg is my dominant one and when I took the final step down my knee buckled and I went down. I guess I'm very very lucky because I did not experience any pain. I just felt this huge numbness and of course the knee swelled up. I had my reconstruction surgery on Feb 20, 06. I stayed overnight and luckily I did not have any nausea. I was put out intraveneously so I don't know if that makes a difference. I did use the clicker that dispenses the pain meds during my overnight stay. it was wonderful!!!lol. I was prescribed lortabs for my recovery period. I haven't really used it much, and when I did take it I only took half the dose. I was up an around on on 2/22. I have gotten better at using my crutches. I have my first drs. appt. on Monday 2/27/06 and I guess I'll see what happens. Thanks.

Yulia
February 26, 2006 11:11 AM

To Dr. John. I am glad that you are doing better. I wish you the best. Just be careful when you are doing your stuff. Make sure you take everything (exercising) slowly so you don't get hurt again. I have one question, when you tore your ACL, what part of your knee hurt? When i hurt my knee the pain was inside of the joint ( Laterally). email me back at alianna_hodiya@yahoo.com

Rose DelleMonache
February 26, 2006 1:11 PM

I had my left acl replaced along with my meniscus tear repaired on Feb 13, 2006. My injury was on Jan 1, 2005 while skiing. My anesthesiologist recomended a nerve block for post op pain that lasted until the next morning after surgery. I highly recomend this because I had absolutley no pain the first day and night. I was able to start the CPM machine and ROM feeling very confident, along with partial weight bearing with the brace locked. I am starting my 3rd post op week, and am able to flex 100 degrees and have had full extension immediatley post op. I tossed the crutches after the first week since they were more of a hinderence than a help. I have been faithful with all the exercising and started PT 2nd week post. It has not been easy but my advice is to stick to the program and don't fret,it does get better and easier. I am looking forward to getting back to to running my 35 miles a week. Until then I'll have to learn to enjoy cycling and building my endurance back. And yes, I will ski again next year.

Jackie
February 27, 2006 8:21 AM

I had ACL surgery Jan.4, 2006 after injuring my right knee 6 months earlier playing kickball. Since I am 50 yrs old, the doctors didn't want to fix my knee and I wouldn't have been able to kneel or run or squat ever again. I insisted because I am very active - skiing, walking, etc...so I had PT after the injury, and am now having PT again after the surgery. The surgery went well, a little nausea at first, the machine worked great and I am now already able to do some of the things I couldn't after the injury. I am not sorry I insisted on the surgery. The only advise I could give is to take it slow and steady.

Mike
February 28, 2006 3:44 PM

I injured my knee playing basketball, I had a meniscus repair and acl reconstruction via cadavore tissue. I am about 5 weeks post op at this point I am doing pretty well i feel. I can straighten my leg, I have no pain with knee hangs really, and the swelling is down significantly. I could run I feel, but i dont in fear of tearing my meniscus up. The pain has come back a little more in the past few days, which I think is a good sign that the acl has vascularized. tommorow I start elliptical and power walking. I feel pretty confident I will be back between 4-5 months, my knee feels about 70-75 percent right now. I have things I need everyones opinion on I am still going back and forth about playing with the acl brace. I know I can play with it, it is not too much of a hinderance that is not a concern to me, and I would be back to basketball quicker , but a lot of people, includiing my doctor, dont recommend it, they think it is more likely youll hurt yourself with it on. I personally think that might be attributed to people not putting it on right. what is everyones opinon on that? How long would it be untill i can be back to heavy weight lifting lower body. My plan is to just bulk up my legs, and maybe the added strenth from that will make up for the speed i lose due to my acl. How long would it be until i can get back to squats and such with no risk of reinjury. along with my acl surgury, I had a meniscus repair where they had to put two biodegradable screws into my knee, I was on crutches for 4 weeks because of that. How long will it take until my menuscus heals and i can start doing flexion and jogging? Ive also heard of a procedure when you are fully healed post op , when they knock you out and just stretch and pull and do a bunch of violent stretches to you. when you wake up, your knee is killing you, but as soon as that soreness goes away it feel much better and it gives you full range of motion. has anyone had this? if this is a good procedure, i might just do that for the heck of it, see if it helps me any

Chad
February 28, 2006 4:19 PM

I commented above after 1week post -op, i am now 12 weeks post op and doing great. I have been pleasantly surprised with how my knee has responded. Since Jan. 1st I have regularly gone to the gym and am now doing Spin classes 3x/week swimming 2x/week and lifting 3-4 x/week. I have not ran on it much do to the caution of my DR. telling me to give it time to heal before high impact! I have also been skiing a few times, very low key, have taken the kids up a few times!

Sam
February 28, 2006 10:50 PM

TO DENISE AND TIM: You both asked about how long to expect before running. My surgeon initially said 3-4 months; however at my last appt. he said that at about 2.5 months I could probably start jogging. My next appt. is tomorrow (which is about 10 weeks post-op) and I'll see if he'll stick by what he said - also will let you know. I've been jogging for the last week or so and have actually gone a half-mile once without pain - not including soreness later.. :) Will check back w/ any new developments after tomorrow's check-up.

Wendy
March 3, 2006 10:39 AM

Hi everyone! My husband (33 yrs. old) in his right knee had a complex meniscus tear. His injury happend in January 2005 on the job site injury and he had surgery on November 29th 2005. This type of surgery is a quick and easy recovery as we were told 2 months tops and you are back to work normally it happens in 4-6 weeks. My husband is an union ironworker and he is still not able to return to work and could not work if released today 3/3/06. He has done 30 sessions of phys thrpy and workers comp in CA sucks and will not pay for any more sessions. In three months he only has made a 5% improvement from the time he started phys thrpy in December two weeks after surgery. Did anyone have burning sensation in the knee as well as could not tolerate kneeling on the knee? Well that is happening to him and his pain level from being on a scale from 1-10 he was 8-10 pre surgery and now a 5-7 post surgery and not easing up. A month prior to surgery his left foot started hurting in the heel. He worked up until three days prior to surgery and the doctor was amazed that his right knee (the one needing surgery) was the same size as his left indicating no muscle loss. Which was not the case. Everything according to the doctor everything in his right knee is in the proper place and intacted. Well now the doctor is in my opinion ignoring the facts to something is not right and says wear an insert in both shoes. Well after this long since surgery no matter what kind of knee surgery should there be a noticable difference as time goes on? For him there has been no difference and it seems to be getting worse. One thing that did improve is after surgery he had no balance and his knee was very unstable to were he would start to fall and would have to catch himself. I have not read up on knee problems that much but the little information I found that just the tear did not cause symptoms like that.? I know most of you had a meniscus tear with ACL ect... that maybe can share the symptoms and knowledge you have gained from your expirence. Thank You and Good Luck to all of you I know we have been through a lot and I could not imagine coping with this slow recovery being young because most of you that have post are teenagers. I broke my ankle at 16 and I thought it was the end of the world and that is not even a fraction of what some of you have gone through so my heart goes out to you and I do hope all of you a speedy recovery

jo
March 3, 2006 12:34 PM

Hi Wendy, I am 33 had acl replacement (BPTB) and meniscus treatment on Jan 9 after injuring it playing soccer in November 05. I am recovering quite well. From what I understood from your blog, your husband only had meniscus damage correct, and nothing else? Well you also mentioned that he can’t balance on that leg right? Before I went into surgery I could balance on the hurt leg and even squat. Does your husband loose balance because of the pain or because his knee buckles or gives way? If it buckles his knee is not stable and could be more things are wrong, does sound bad but even if it does, it’s always not all that bad. I have a friend who has had 3 separate meniscus and surgeries along with one ACL reconstruction and he can do every thing plays on the same team with me with no discomfort at all. But when he kneels on the injured knee he experiences a lot of pain and really can’t kneel at all. Alas ask your doc if there is any cartilage damage? This could add to the problems. When the meniscus is stitched to repair it, it is recommended you cannot flex your leg for over a month. It’s hard to tell from your husband’s case, but I recommend you search for a knee specialist who has good recommendations and get a second opinion. This is always good. Good luck! e-mail me at joniell@hotmail.com if you have any other questions.

Brad
March 4, 2006 12:23 PM

I tore my ACL completely on Feb 19,2006. I have no other damage to knee joint. I am late forties with fairly active lifestyle, however, no basketball or tennis, just jogging and weights. My doctor said that surgery is an option but does not recommend it until I say I absolutely need it. He says to rehab well, do PT and see where I am in a month or two. Do you think this will work, or am I heading to the operating table, well rehabbed and ready.

Glen Santha
March 4, 2006 4:27 PM

In 1999, I tore my right ACL completely in Whistler, BC. I have not had surgery to repair - I no longer have an ACL on my right knee. I was advised by my specialist at that time not to have the surgery. He told me to see how it goes, do my exercises and keep the muscles strong. If the knee fails, then get the surgery. Fast forward four years. I was playing tennis and squash, more than usual and became concerned if I would destroy my knee. I went to see one of the specialists from an NBA team. I was surprised when he told me not to do the surgery. His specific words to me were, "Unless your knee keeps failing (collapsing), you want to stay away from surgery. Once under the knife, you have no idea what the outcome is going to be like." It is now seven years since I lost my ACL. I play sports, including lateral movement ones like tennis. Still going strong.

Brad
March 4, 2006 9:33 PM

Thanks Glen I thought my Surgeon was just getting me ready for inevitable surgery, but your story makes me feel that maybe I'll get by without it. I guess I'll see how rehab and PT goes. Would love to live without surgery at this point.

Jill
March 5, 2006 8:37 AM

ROUND 2--- at least that's how i'm looking at it. I tore my L ACL playing soccer (like everyone else) in 1997 and had surgery in NYC at a respected doctor.... now its almost 10 years later and a silly ski injury (i think i thought i was in the X Games) and i'll be back on the cutting table March 20th. I remember most of what my recovery was like from my first surgery, but i can't remember how long it will be before i'm able to drive (my car is manual and i need my left leg for the clutch). Does anyone have any ideas on how long it will be before they think i'll be able to drive stick? thanks for the help Jill

jo
March 5, 2006 1:03 PM

HI Jill, I had bpt acl reconstructive surgery on myleft knee and was able to drive my manual car in 2 weeks. Because it was my left leg I did not have to shift from one peddle to another so it was ok. Being your right leg which has to shift from brake to acclerator it might be a little more complex. However it may also depend on the graft type you choose. Good luck ! Jo

Eliot Lee
March 5, 2006 7:33 PM

Hello all, Quick update... I dumped the crutches and knee immobilizer brace on Friday, Feb 24th, three days after the surgery. I took my first shower that day, standing up in the shower (of course, covering the stiches as best as I could). I changed the bandage that day as well. The incisions did not look that bad. I've been using the hinged brace I got before the surgery when walking around long distances. I stopped taking the pain med, Percocet, on Sunday, Feb 26th. I've also started decreasing dosages of Ibprofin each day, down to less than 600mg in the last couple days, versus 1.2g - 1.8g during this past week. I started driving my girlfriend's automatic SUV on Tuesday, Feb 28th down to the mailbox and back, which is a 1/4 mile round trip. I drove it into town (35 miles round trip) yesterday, Saturday, March 4th, with my girlfiend. Of course, using the hinged brace. I also walked around the grocery store, restaurant, and feed and supply store. I completed using the CPM machine on Friday, March 3rd. I got up to 120 degree flex (used it between 6 and 8 hours each day after the surgery, which took place on Tuesday, Feb 21, 2006). I also started sleeping in my regular bed on Friday, March 3rd with my girlfriend. I wrapped my knee to avoid being attacked by her cats and dogs, and my dog. The wrap worked well. I am feeling way better than expected, almost too good to be true. The only real major pain is my quad muscle near the nerve block that was inserted prior to the surgery. The knee is not painful, only mild discomfort while sleeping. Of course, I yet to start Physical Therapy, which I begin this coming Thursday, March 9th (more than two weeks after the surgery). I know a little late, but since I have to drive myself, I wanted to wait until I could drive to and from the PT Center, since it's located an hour and half from my house. Good to read that others are having successful recoveries!

Rebecca
March 7, 2006 12:36 PM

I have played sports my entire life and never had any type of sport related injury. I graduated high school in 2002 as one of the only members to win 4 consecutive state championships for a team sport.(soccer) Then a year after being out of sports I began Professional Wrestling. First my knees started popping out of place. Then in 2004 I had an ACL repair done on my right knee. In October of 2005 I had it on my left knee. Right when I started to begin being comfortable in the atheletic scene, my right knee has "popped" yet again. I go to the doc March 20th to find out if I must have an ACL re-repair. You never realize how much you are blessed while performing and enjoying all sports. I will tell you, when you can't even go jogging without worrying you could misstep once, you look at things totally differently. I would give ANYTHING to be able to kick a ball or play good defense like I used to be able to.

michael
March 7, 2006 5:06 PM

this is my 6th month after tearing my ACL. I recently started running on my treadmill, at a fair pace. I find that with my new DJ brace, it is cutting off some circulation in my leg and after i run i feel light headed. Anyways the PT and Docs underestimated my abilities, since i have a decent push off now, def work hard on ur quads and do all the leg lifts. I look towards running track within the next 2 months, i know it may seem unrealistic, but does anyone know what are ways to train yourself back to "normal". well anyways these stories are definetly inspirational.

Joseph
March 7, 2006 6:53 PM

I recently tore my ACL, MCL, retinaculum, and some of my patellar ligaments when I as backcountry skiing. I was able to hike out for 2 miles after the injury so I didn't think I did any sort of major damage. The following day my right knee swelled to approximately 3 times its normal size and I couldn't walk very well. I was really dreading going to the doctor since I am supposed to go on a heli-skiing trip in about a week, but I knew that I should before I cause some serious damage. After getting an MRI the orthopeadic doctors were very concerned and told me that I needed total reconstructive surgery since I tore so many different ligaments. I was worried I would never be able to ski again, but after meeting with my surgeon yesterday I found out that the only thing they really need to repair is my ACL. I never thought I would be so happy to hear that I needed ACL reconstruction. I know that my plans for heli-skiing in Alaska need to be put on hold for this season, but I definately plan on being up there next year at this time.

Robert
March 9, 2006 8:08 AM

Rebecca, I am now about 5 weeks post-op and i'm walking fine. Of course the next thing on my mind is getting back to my soccer career here in college. I hope to be able to play just as well as I did before, but at this point I'm not sure if I will be able to go 100% like I did before. Before the surgery, high-impact sports were my life: soccer, skiing, track, inline skating, and football. I feel your pain, but the way I look at it, I may just have to pick up a new hobby with a low-impact sport like biking, or rock climbing. I hope you get back to your sports soon! Good luck to everyone else going through this event too. I wish everyone the best surgery and recovery possible. Bob

Lizripp
March 9, 2006 5:59 PM

Hey I'm 16 and I tore my ACL in August of 05' and I'm a little passed 4 months in recovery. The surgery went great I'm just praying I didn't lose any of my athletic ability. I'm on my way to get a scholarship to play soccer in college and I'm hoping and praying I can do it. Wish me luck!

Corey Kaye
March 11, 2006 8:24 AM

I tore my ACL January 15 in a college alumni basketball game, (blew it out)! I had my surgery on February 9 and it is now March 11. I have always been a college athlete, (basketball and track Division 1). I compete in extreme adventure races, marathons, triathlons, 10k, 5k, and more so this was very devastating to me. After reaching my fourth week in recovery I am now focusing on strength training, (weights) I just started the EFX, (elliptical machine), working on the bike, rowing machine and walking on the treadmill. I want to be able to be in top condition when I start back to racing. I believe strengthening the rest of your body will help your injured leg. You have to stay motivated and continue as much as you can physically, (that is if your body is used to it). Don't deprive your body!!! If you truely love sports then you will look at this as another challenge and just become an even stronger athlete. Don't let people feel sorry for you, show them there is just NO stopping you!! Goodluck--and remember....the race is not won by the swift but by those who endure the longest!!! SUCK IT UP!!!

K
March 13, 2006 8:54 AM

Hey yall, Its been almost 4 months since my ACL cadaver graft surgery. I have been running for the past 2 weeks (only slow jogging). But overall I feel very good. I feel better and better every week. I must wait at least another month and half to play contact basketball. But when I come back, I will have a new perspective on sports and athletics- to not take good health for granted.

Sarah
March 14, 2006 4:24 PM

On Feb.25.2006 I was tackled during an indoor soccer game by a girl who came in from behind to the outside of my knee with a cleats up foot. She tore my ACL, meniscus, chipped a bone and gave me a grade 3 MCL tear. I've been icing, taking anti-inflammatories and doing physio 3 times a week. Should I be pushing through the MCL pain in physio?? The specialist finally informed me of my diagnosis yesterday, but he wants me to obtain more mobility and the ability to walk without crutches before he sends me to a surgeon. Will it be possible to do this if I have a complete MCL tear?? Can anyone give me any advice in terms of my short term goals or what I expect to happen?? Any feedback is MUCH appreciated.

Kevin
March 15, 2006 9:29 AM

I'm 26 and tore my ACL in January of 05 playing basketball. I finally was diagnosed with a torn ACL, completely gone, in August 05 after one specialist told me I sprained it. I had my surgery, patellar tendon, Dec 28th 2005 and have been doing great. I was off crutches in about 5 days and could have been back to work by then. I've been doing rehab on my own the entire time, except for getting some pointers from the therapist. I've been doing some very light jogging on the treadmill and riding the bike and ellyptical machine after 1 1/2-2 moths. My advice would be to make sure to keep up the workouts, don't slack. The more you work it the better it gets. For those of you who are thinking about getting surgery, I had a machine that moved my leg slowly for the first week or so and had some excersizes from the doctor. I think this actually helped me more than anything. I'm going in to the surgeon today for my 2 1/2 month checkup and hope all goes well. If anyone has any questions feel free to ask. ACL surgery is not bad at all, totally worth being able to get back into sports in my opinion.

Matt Gilliam
March 15, 2006 8:26 PM

I just tore my ACL on February 26 and its now March 15 and im having my surgery on the 23rd. Im only 17 years old and I was weight training for my senior season of Football. Thankfully, i planned the surgery over spring break which means missing florida but possibly return for some of the football season. Im a little nervous about what to expect after the surgery. any comments or advice would be appricated.... mgilly45@gmail.com

Matt Gilliam
March 15, 2006 8:27 PM

I just tore my ACL on February 26 and its now March 15 and im having my surgery on the 23rd. Im only 17 years old and I was weight training for my senior season of Football. Thankfully, i planned the surgery over spring break which means missing florida but possibly return for some of the football season. Im a little nervous about what to expect after the surgery. any comments or advice would be appricated.... mgilly45@gmail.com

Sarah
March 17, 2006 2:12 PM

Here's an update to my March 14 posting... I pushed my family doctor for a MRI because the specialist didn't feel it was necessary. It's a good thing I did because the surgeon says I should have had surgery right away. I'm having surgery next week for a lot of work incl., but not limited to: ACL tear (grade 3), MCL tear (grade 3), LCL tear, Medial/Lateral meniscus tear, Cartilage tear. Don't put total faith in just one doctor. Express your concerns to your physiotherapist or family doctor!! What I've learned so far is that you have GOT to be your own advocate! Take Charge!!

jo
March 17, 2006 4:00 PM

Sarah, Sorry to hear about your ordeal, but I 100% agree with you. I wasent sent in for an MRI right away and I got injured again in aa couple weeks. Then again I insisted on seeing another doc who requested an MRI which confirmed the ACL Tear. Sarah one thing that may make you feel better. Sometimes although you a complete Tear MRI diagonosis, there is a chance that it might not be fully torn. In my case they thought Both minescus and cartilage damage but when the doc went in, he found the ACL 90% torn, only 1 minescus torn and its was not too bad according to the doc (he trimmed it) and the cartilage had taken a beating but was not damaged (torn) etc. There was some bone bruising. I had to do the acl procedure since my knee was buckling under the tests they performed when I was under. I thin if the MCL is not completly torn it heals quite well. BEst of luck. Any more questions e-mail me at joniell@hotmail.com subject ACL J

linda
March 18, 2006 8:24 AM

DR. CHRISTOPHER AHMAD IN COLUMBIA PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL IS NOT ONLY A RESPECTED SURGEON, HE IS A GENTLEMAN. MANY THANKS TO YOU.

Eliot Lee
March 18, 2006 9:34 PM

Hello all, Quick update to my March 05, 2006 post... I've been through three PT sessions since March 09, 2006. They have gotten gradually more painful, but more relief in terms of walking around after the sessions. The therapist has been concerned about me not being able to straighten (extension) my leg. He really worked out scar tissue during the third session on March 15, 2006. It's been a fricken roller coaster...some days are better than others. I've been doing at home exercises religiously. The biggest challenge is maintaining a high level of motivation. Some days when I can't walk normally and have to hobble, I mentally bring myself down, when I should be bringing myself up. The challenge is not so much physical, but mental. I so much want to get back to 100% normal activity, including taking my dog, an Alaskan Malamute (see "8 Below", I have one of those sled dogs), and my girlfriend's dogs for a long walk; skiing, etc.!!! But I have to keep a positive mental attitude, that is the key to recovery...although it's so damn hard...there are days that I cry for several minutes. But I know it'll be worth it in the end. I try to keep my eye on the prize...skiing in December 2006, if not earlier!!

Kathy
March 18, 2006 9:36 PM

My daughter who is 15, tore her ACL on her right knee coming to a quick jump stop and going up for a shot...(she also got a shove from behind which helped the forward acceleration)..during a H.S. Basketball Game...very sad.. she was starting on the varsity team and we had just had another girl have the same acl injury the week before...she was our only SR. and my daughter the only FR. playing varsity and was just coming along starting to score more and more to take up the slack from losing our Sr. double digit score loss...anyway back to the ACL surgery...we had a H.S. trainer on hand that helped her up...she said after the initial pain..there really wasn't much..she just was very unstable and couldn't get up...felt like she slid on a little bit of water on the floor or something (probably her bones moving forward after ACL ruptured)....but the Physical Trainer/Therapist did the same thing to my daughter that he had done the week before to my daughters team mate...put her in an immobilizer/ice and crutches after doing the manipulation that showed it probably was a torn ACL....and she watched the rest of the game on the bench...very bad day....she didn't have much pain or swelling.. the other girl was told she could possible rehabilitate and get swelling out and try to play in our first sub - state game in 3 weaks..and since she was a SR. that was what she wanted to do....she would wear the coaches knee brace..since he had just torn his ACL and MCL earlier that summer....(strange I know...so common now days...could it be basketball has become such a rough "non-contact" game??...ha)...our Dr. told us not to try and play...even though the trainer said since my Dr. was a week behind it would be tough...getting her ready but she could possibly try to play also...(these two girls were the leading scorers for the team most games)....my daughter was still strong it seemed and still had good flexiblity but our DR. (well known K.C. Chiefs Ortho. Surgeon) still told us not to let her..we would be taking great risk for further damaging her knee and possibly meniscus cartlidege and other surrounding legiments. I forgot to add the next day after accident we went to have a check up from Dr. and MRI which showed complete tear of ACL but no other damage...thank the LORD....so he said give it a week or two to get what little swelling out of the joint and keep conditioning so rehab/post op. would be easier....then book surgery...she had accident on Feb. 6 and surgery on Feb. 27....they used the patela graft which from all the research I did and info. from our DR. who has tried them all ...even a synthetic one .....which he is now having to re-do some of them....but patela is still suppose to be the strongest graft choice..for those wanting to compete at a high level ....and the 1/3 of the Petla Tendon taken will eventually grow back...where as the hamstring will not...and hamstring will always be a little weaker after the graft also...area in front of the knee will be very sore...as my daughter can atest too....and according to most will stay that way for awhile with some numbness mixed with the pian...my husband had the same pursedure done over 20 yrs. ago..no pain or numbess in front of his knee...they removed all of his meniscus way back then too...so he has bone rubbing against bone...but has managed to avoid having a total knee....he his 54. We are now closing in on week number 3..post surgery and she can bend to 102 degree....just a day or so ago was told she could ditch the crutches as long as she was walking w/out a limp...she still has a little limp...so he should use the crutches...Dr. said crutches 2 - 3 weeks..she still hasn't go ther wound wet in the shower...we go back Tues. March 22 for check up and to order her permanent brace...we started P.T. one week after surgery.....it's good to take things slow at the beginning...I believe....grafts that fit into the bone are still so new....oh by the way after our Sr. Girl played her first game...she fell again actually at practice the day before she was suppose to come back...and said the pain was worse with more popping sound then her first initial injury..(my daughter never did hear a popping)...she did play 3 games at our Sub-State...when she had her surgery she DID have more damage also...Meniscus and other legiments.....Sad deal...let's hope they both fully recover...she (our SR) is "thinking about playing b-ball in college I think"...I'm just going to try and get my daughter out of school w/out any more injury...but it's scary from all the stories I've heard about the percentage of injures reoccuring in the same knee or other knee of girls who have had this injury.... Good luck to all....hang in there..take one day at a time.

Joe F
March 19, 2006 5:45 PM

8 weeks post op donor tendon. Folks need to understand it is going to take 6 months to be 100%. I am walking fine and have full normal range of knee but still have pain in knee and it cracks. I am right wear I should be on rehab and I will take the full 6 months before I go back to soccer, you would be crazy to risk reinjuring it by trying to save a month or 2. No one is paying me to come back early and play sports, think about that before you try.

Robert M.
March 20, 2006 11:29 AM

I am 20 days out of surgery and it is driving me crazy. I feel for anyone who has had reconstructed acl surgery and would never wish this injury on anyone. Its a struggle everyday. My biggest fear is what if I'm not healing properly. I'm being treated through the V.A. and my doctors are not very informative at all. Its almost like they dont care and have better things to worry about. I rely on my phsyical therapist for answers. But there are questions that she cannot answer sometimes. I just keep reading up on the internet for answers and keep praying for a good and speedy recovery. Good luck to all who are in recovery. Keep your heads up.

Lauren
March 20, 2006 4:13 PM

Hi Everyone. I'm 27 & completely tore my left ACL on 1/10/06 in a ski accident. Had it reconstructed on 2/23/06 using my patellar tendon. Surgery itself wasn't too bad, but I have to admit, I had no idea the ordeal I was in for. The pain was pretty intense for about 3-4 days, and got better after that. I was sleeping on the couch on my back for about a week, and finally was able to move onto my side after that. A down comforter that I could wrap my knee in helped a lot. Don't put anything under your knee like a pillow..or it will start to heal bent. ICE & more ice helped tremendously. The day after surgery I had my drains removed which was about the worst part of the whole thing. I had 2 in, and 1 was really long. YUK. Stitches came out a week later. CPM helped quite a bit, although it was pretty tough to get in it the day after surgery. I could only get up to about 55 flexion. Went up from there. PT has been really tough, but it helps. The hardest thing is trying to to straight leg lifts since it pulls the patellar tendon..hurts a lot sometimes. I'm down to 1 crutch and hoping to get rid of it soon. My knee gets pretty stiff at times, and cracks a little when I bend it. I was hoping to be further along than I am now, but I understand its going to be a long process! If anyone has any questions...feel free to email me at Lauren1214@comcast.net.

julio
March 21, 2006 10:48 AM

hi i had my acl and meniscus repair on 3/7/06 today its been 14days i stopped taking my medications for pain a couple days ago ive been doing my excersises evryday day 3 times a day butstill cant stand straigh i am suppose to go pt starting next week i feel miserable not be able to do things on my own asking people for help has been my biggest challenge i feel people gets tireof helping including spouses but i tried to push myself i want to go back to play soccer so bad...its not even funny butmydoctor syas itll take 8 months before i do anyhigh impact sport,thats a killer anyway thanks for listening i really like inspiration i get from all you !!!!!!!!illcheck back with you in 2 weeks good luck everyone!!!

julio
March 21, 2006 10:49 AM

hi i had my acl and meniscus repair on 3/7/06 today its been 14days i stopped taking my medications for pain a couple days ago ive been doing my excersises evryday day 3 times a day butstill cant stand straigh i am suppose to go pt starting next week i feel miserable not be able to do things on my own asking people for help has been my biggest challenge i feel people gets tireof helping including spouses but i tried to push myself i want to go back to play soccer so bad...its not even funny butmydoctor syas itll take 8 months before i do anyhigh impact sport,thats a killer anyway thanks for listening i really like inspiration i get from all you !!!!!!!!illcheck back with you in 2 weeks good luck everyone!!!

Bobby
March 22, 2006 1:32 PM

I tore my ACL on November 1st 2005. After many weeks of deciding what I should do I am going for the surgery tomorrow @ 1:00. My injury was sustained playing basketball when I went for a lay-up and then it happened. I felt the knee bend backwards and hit the floor hard. I would have to say that it was the most pain that I have ever felt in a split second. At first the guys that I play with came up to me and said, �Are you ok?� I was rolling around on the ground and could not tolerate it for the first few minutes and the only noise I made were groans and other noises that made no sense. It was somewhat like watching a newborn baby just out of the mother trying to get to its feet for the first time. At first some of the other people that I play with said, �Oh, you just hyper extended it.� If that is a hyperextension then I don�t know how athletes can walk after doing that. I then hobbled to my car (which is a standard) and impossible to drive on the way home. Went to the Dr. the next day and stated that it is an ACL tear that I suffered with bruised bones. The good thing is that there is no other damage to any other ligaments. Since then I have been running 5 days a week (30 minutes) and playing basketball once a week. I am hoping that this will help in making my post operation procedures that much easier. I have also been doing all my pre physical therapy that I am supposed to do with the rubber bands and other wall dips etc.etc. My leg muscles feel just as strong as those in the right. Except for the fact when turning on it it is very weak. I hope that I am prepared and will post my results when I come out of the OR.

derek
March 22, 2006 8:44 PM

did anyone else chip their tibia when they tore there acl...that hurts like no other

Lindsey
March 23, 2006 7:47 AM

I had my ACL surgery in december... it is almost April and my progress has been spectacular. I started my PT the day after my surgery (not gonna lie, surgery sucked!) and went 3 times a week until february, then 2 times a week, and now im down to once a week. Yesterday, I did my first official run! I only lasted 10 minutes but it felt really good. Having the surgery made me get back into shape (you will do more squats and lunges than you can count) and I've never felt better. My knee is still very tight and I am anxious for the day that it feels normal again. Sometimes it hurts alot when I go down stairs, but other then that, im very used to the pain or the tightness. Does anyone have a timeline of when this might be? its been over 3 months! Good luck to everyone having surgery!

matt
March 23, 2006 11:10 AM

hi, I had surgery one week ago (March 14, 2006) i am off crutches and have gone to pt twice. It wasnt as bad as i thought it would be. The surgery went quick and i was a little dizzy from the meds and morphine. i was in bed for 2 days and off crutches after 4 days i used a exercise bike today at pt and will begin swimming exercises next week. I cant wait to play soccer again. Im not going to rush it though i have 2 friends who rushed into soccer again and had thier new acl tear(scary stuff). The doctor suggests 1 year before i play again and im not rushing it. i can settle with jogging and playing with soccer ball in the yard. this site is great. Good luck to all

Cheryl
March 23, 2006 11:28 AM

My husband had ACL surgury and all went well so we thought. About a week after it was done he started to get chills but the fever never went over 99degrees. He had gotten a staph infection and the simple out patient stay turned into two weeks in the hospital and 6 weeks of vancamiacin in a pic line. He had to have 2 more surguries to flush and finally to remove the graft. He now has no ACL and the threat of another infection if we try it again. I wonder if we could sue the hospital for the infection. We are now still paying off the bills the the hospital insisted that we pay promply. No simpathy from CARLISLE HOSPITAL, PA. The whole situation really turned out bad for us. He also has alot of numbness around the site.

Melissa
March 23, 2006 2:04 PM

I am now at one week post-op and I am doing a lot better. The first two days were tough but once I got the pain under control things began to progress with my recovery. I am still using my crutches but I do not think I will need them for too much longer. I am icing reguarly, using the CPM machine to work on my range of motion and will see my pt tomorrow. Each day I feel a little better and can do more and more. I am taking it very easy though and do not intend to put pressure on myself to return to driving and wrok before I am ready. My only advice to you is to take it easy, get help and keep your spirits up and know that it gets easier everyday.

Terri
March 23, 2006 8:08 PM

I injured my knee while skiing 2 weeks ago. I just found out today about the MRI results. Complete rupture of the ACL. I see the doctor in 5 days and decided to do some research first. I am a 43 year old female with an office job. I do like to work out, swim, horseback ride and snow ski (only once a year). I am thinking about passing on surgery and just making do without an ACL. I would like to hear from others that choose not to have surgery before making up my mind. Thanks, Terri

Erin
March 24, 2006 7:33 PM

I had my acl surgery december 22nd along with meniscus repair due a soccer injury. They too used my hamstrings for the reconstruction of my acl. At first the anesthesia made me feel sick for awhile but that was over in like 2 days. I was on crutches for awhile only due to the fact of my meniscus repair. I had a brace the brace on for about 4 weeks or so and I was on my way to gaining back everything I lost. All in all the surgery went very well and I ran for the first time wednesday March 22nd. I ran a little over a mile and it felt amazing since I'm very much into sports. I started PT 4 days after surgery and went for 2 times a week for about a little over a month and now i've been going once a week for awhile. PT is over in 3 weeks! At first I thought about not doing the surgery however, if I chose not to I would have never been able to go back to play the sports I love since it made it nearly impossible with out it giving out. Having the surgery was well worth it just to have my life back.

Erik
March 25, 2006 8:38 AM

I'm 2weeks and a day post op and things are going well. I'll see the doc in three days and then start PT. Can't wait. I've had a torn acl for about 10yrs and finally had enough of the brace. I play alot of hockey and it would swell from time to time. I,m a firefighter and the tear was really starting to be a problem, up and down ladders etc, lots of pain. I'm really glad i had the replacement done and get back to normal. Hey Terri, go for it, at the end of the day it will all be worth it. Good luck, Erik

Danny
March 27, 2006 1:43 PM

I tore both my ACL and Meniscus about a month ago playing basketball. It was a jump I had made 1,000 times before. It just happened that this time my knee decided to bend sideways. The large pop was loud enough to get everyones attention on the court. Now I'm 1 day away from visiting my specialist with an MRI in hand to determine my options. He's already said the tears are severe enough that if I want to continue playing basketball, I would need the surgery. As I'm sure everyone will attest to, the depression associated with either pre or post surgery is tough to swallow when you're used to being so active. Like Terri above, I'm worried about the procedure. I'm also concerned if mentally I will ever be 100% again. Can anyone provide info on the Cadaver Ligament? I've heard there's a real risk of Hepatitis? Knowledge is power!

2 months post op
March 28, 2006 6:51 AM

@danny: little risk of infection with cadavers, they usually test them well. As far as the mental aspect, you may never again get full range of motion, you have to keep that in mind. Some people do, some dont. Im two months post op and my range is close to 145, not quite full yet but I'm sure I'll get it soon. The depression hasnt affected me much because each day i see an improvement and I will soon be better than i was before my acl repair. Just keep focusnig on improving and the placebo effect will help in your recovery. Depression will work as a nocebo. Good luck

kelly
March 28, 2006 10:15 AM

I had my acl rec surgery done and the things they don't tell you are the worst. If you have never had any kind of cutting done to you ,they done tell you about the large amount of blood you vomit from the gas. The pain involved with the surgery if you are weak stomached and can't take t-3s or morphine.If you are getting the cut done make sure you know if you can take these drugs or you will hate the 10 hr after the cut.

Sarah
March 28, 2006 2:03 PM

I had my surgery last week and the doctor couldn't do what he'd hoped. It was the worst he's ever seen! He basically cleaned out the knee and fracture the end of the femur to re-generate...? Confusing! I will have a second surgery in a few weeks to repair the ACL and have a MENISCUS TRANSPLANT... I had never heard of this before... Anyway, not too much pain. I take meds just for physio and halfway through my sleep!

Robert
March 28, 2006 2:45 PM

About 1 and a half months ago I had meniscus repair for a bucket tear and ACL reconstruction. At my last doctors visit he told me to not do any PT other than quad flexes and walking, so I followed these instructions. Just recently though, I experienced some pain in the back of my knee where the repair was. Now it is popping almost everytime I walk. I am afraid that the meniscal repair failed. Has anyone else had a failure with meniscal repair? What is to be done about it?

Steve
March 31, 2006 7:04 AM

I work for a medical engineering company in the UK that specialises in the knee and whose first product was in regards to ACL repair. I was amazed to read all your stories but also amazed to see that not one person seems to have been told of one other option. Did you know you can get prosthetic ligaments that can replace your ACL directly without the need for an allograft or an autograft? Sort of make sense doesn't it? Prosthetics seem to have gone out of fashion compared to hamstring grafts but they are used through out the world still. Most have clinical data stemming 20 years! Personally I never really did understand the idea of graft harvesting - it?s like robbing peter to pay paul! I would suggest it may be worth asking your surgeons as at least for some of you this has got to be an option

Chrison
April 3, 2006 12:38 AM

I had an acl tear from skiing downhill in the snow.I had an acl rec done to me last month and my doctor wants me to walk without crutches the next day which i did.I started my physical therapy also the day after my surgery.In a weeks time my immobilizer is gone. Now I'm doin range of motion exercises to 140 degrees.Im happy with the aggressive program the doctor has given me and I see alot of improvent.I think ill do better than my preacl state.

bea
April 10, 2006 6:12 PM

I just had my ACL surgery exactly one week ago. I injuried my knee in the middle of Dec, but decided to book my surgery this month to finish traveling with my team for support , without being on crutches (I play basketball). The first day of my surgery I was totally fine becasue my whole leg was numb and I was moving around great on my cructhes ( which was dumb), not until the third day did the pain start to come. It hurt so bad because I think i moved it to fast (when it was numb) without resting it. It still aches and I'm still laying around after one week. I have ok range of motion, been doing my exercises, I can easily be 90 degrees without pain, but can not go straight, is that normal? I will be at PT in 4 days and will meet with my doctors to find out exaclty what he did and if he found any other damage. I just wanted to know, I have to be at school soon and at home I always need my knee/foot elevated with ice or else my foot becomes horrible swollen ( worse then after surgery) and sort of purple (not really bad) at the tips of my toes. How has anyone else handled going to school for 5 hours without being total elevated? DID you have any other discomforts, anything I should know? -thanks so much

chaz gray
April 11, 2006 8:58 AM

i had acl and meniscus repair. Torn acl(ski trip) and torn medial and lateral meniscus. Dr. cain in birmingham, al did my surgery. I believe to be one of the best knee surgeons around. He graphed my patella tendon to repair my acl. I had pain the first week but that is to be expected no matter which graphing they do. If you look at it there is a 25% chance that cadaver(acl) doesnt work.Your body could reject it. Hamstring(acl) graphing is painful and adds rehab time to your already rehab time. With patella, its from your body no rejection and no more additional rehab time added. Its beginning of my 5th week(4/11/06) and i have been without my crutches and knee brace for 3 weeks. Doc said everything was doing fine and only problem i have is if i do to much and my knee and ankle ache at night. other than that no probvlems at all. i think what some people forget is that what is painful surgery to me may not be so painful to someone else and vice versa. Dont go by what happened to someone else, your body will act totally different. The same for the anestesia. Also the recovery time will be protocol, but some people recover much quicker and better than others.

chaz gray
April 11, 2006 8:59 AM

i had acl and meniscus repair. Torn acl(ski trip) and torn medial and lateral meniscus. Dr. cain in birmingham, al did my surgery. I believe to be one of the best knee surgeons around. He graphed my patella tendon to repair my acl. I had pain the first week but that is to be expected no matter which graphing they do. If you look at it there is a 25% chance that cadaver(acl) doesnt work.Your body could reject it. Hamstring(acl) graphing is painful and adds rehab time to your already rehab time. With patella, its from your body no rejection and no more additional rehab time added. Its beginning of my 5th week(4/11/06) and i have been without my crutches and knee brace for 3 weeks. Doc said everything was doing fine and only problem i have is if i do to much and my knee and ankle ache at night. other than that no probvlems at all. i think what some people forget is that what is painful surgery to me may not be so painful to someone else and vice versa. Dont go by what happened to someone else, your body will act totally different. The same for the anestesia. Also the recovery time will be protocol, but some people recover much quicker and better than others.

John Pemberton
April 11, 2006 3:15 PM

I had a torn ACL (in two places) and a torn meniscus. I am a photographer and was hit on the sidelines at a H.S. football game. My injury was a workman's comp claim. I had to wait for the MRI and went through PT for two months to build my muscles. The pre-surgery workouts helped a lot. I am 8 weeks post surgery (allograft) and am at about 85%. I listened to my surgeon and my physical therapist. My recovery was in leaps and bounds. My suggestion is to find a good surgeon with a working relationship with a good PT shop. I wanted to do more than I was allowed to do but reined myself in and my recovery was faster than expected.

Tommy Pineda
April 12, 2006 10:45 AM

Hi my name is Tommy Pineda and I just had my ACL repaired 4 weeks ago. I had the patellar surgery. I tore my ACL on Jan 7, 2006 in a wrestling match. At first I didn’t think too much of it, I just thought that I sprained my knee. I was practicing on two days later and finish my season like that. I got my MRI when the season ended and I found out that I tore my ACL. My doctor told me about some of the presger that could be done. And he decided to do the patellar surgery. And it’s been about 4 weeks I have been going to therapy; my knee is getting better every week. I was just wondering if you have any advice for me, or any tricks that help speed things up a little bit.

Tom
April 12, 2006 10:45 AM

Hi my name is Tommy Pineda and I just had my ACL repaired 4 weeks ago. I had the patellar surgery. I tore my ACL on Jan 7, 2006 in a wrestling match. At first I didn’t think too much of it, I just thought that I sprained my knee. I was practicing on two days later and finish my season like that. I got my MRI when the season ended and I found out that I tore my ACL. My doctor told me about some of the presger that could be done. And he decided to do the patellar surgery. And it’s been about 4 weeks I have been going to therapy; my knee is getting better every week. I was just wondering if you have any advice for me, or any tricks that help speed things up a little bit.

Tom
April 12, 2006 10:46 AM

Hi my name is Tommy Pineda and I just had my ACL repaired 4 weeks ago. I had the patellar surgery. I tore my ACL on Jan 7, 2006 in a wrestling match. At first I didn’t think too much of it, I just thought that I sprained my knee. I was practicing on two days later and finish my season like that. I got my MRI when the season ended and I found out that I tore my ACL. My doctor told me about some of the presger that could be done. And he decided to do the patellar surgery. And it’s been about 4 weeks I have been going to therapy; my knee is getting better every week. I was just wondering if you have any advice for me, or any tricks that help speed things up a little bit.

linda
April 12, 2006 1:10 PM

Chaz: hamstring graft is not more painful than patella, the more experienced the doctor is in sports medicine, determines the results.

Evan
April 12, 2006 8:24 PM

Hi All, I tore my ACL skiing and had the reconstruction done March 31st. I had a Patella graft. I went in on a Friday morning and was crutching around that night. I went with a very experienced surgeon (pro sports team guy) and he did a great job, as my pain level was very low by Sunday. I am 12 days post op and just started physical therapy. Spent the first week in a CPM machine where I got to 120 degrees flexion. The best advice I can give so far is to ice your knee constantly. Swelling is the enemy post op and causes most of the pain when moving. I also put in a minimum of 8 hours a day on the CPM machine. I have been walking unassisted by a cane or crutches for about 5 days. Also, pre operative physical therapy for strengthening was also very helpful. Without it I dont think I would be this far already.

Duka
April 15, 2006 1:45 PM

Hey, i tore my acl and mcl skiing at the end of february. after walking with crutches for over a month, now i can walk again. my surgery is scheduled on may 16, 2006. im very scared but anxious to get it over with it. i have little over a month now. i will be hitting the gym pretty hard because the last month on crutches made my leg very weak. all my muscles are weak and soft. ill let you guys know how its going after the surgery. goodluck to you all.

Whitney
April 17, 2006 5:38 PM

Hi. I've torn my ACL twice before (same leg) and both times had a quad tendon used as my replacement (the second time around they had to use the tendon from my "good" leg). This surgery was pretty new when I had it done. Oh, I should mention that I tore my acl skiing/racing the first time and the second time had a freak accident and hit snowmaking pipes and tore my acl and mcl. Anyway, I was playing soccer last week and may have torn it yet again - I haven't been to the doctor's yet, but my trainer at school said that it feels "sloppy". I guess we'll see what happens! Good luck everyone with your rehab!!

Bobby
April 18, 2006 1:38 PM

My name is Bobby and I posted on the site on March 22, 2006 1:32 PM. I got the patella from my knee. The surgery was not bad. Everyone who I have talked to BEFORE getting the surgery said that the PT was the worse. It is not THAT bad. It is painful but tolerable. You just have to relax the muscles as much as you can when you are doing stretches etc. I had a hard time with ROM (Range of Motion) but now almost have 100% back after 23 days. Good luck to everyone and I will let you know my progress and hope to hear all yours!

Eliot Lee
April 18, 2006 8:59 PM

UPDATE - last post March 18, 2006 Hello all, Welp, I am eight weeks post-op, six weeks into physical therapy (10 sessions so far). I am starting to feel much more normal. I am now walking around without a limp. The pain has moved to other parts of my leg (hamstring - that is where the tendon was extracted for the graft, calf, and quad muscles). My knee mildly hurts throughout the day. I started using the Stationary Bike two and half weeks, and I was able to ride it for twenty minutes yesterday and today. Keeping up with my daily @home exercises and still going to therapy twice a week. Some advice...put up with the sadistical physical therapists...they are definitely sadist, but they mean well and the pain they apply on you will pay off. Set goals for yourself...for me, I want to be able to bike to work by the statewide "Bike to Work Day" in middle June (14 miles round trip). By beginning of September, I want to hike a 13,000+ ft. peak in Rocky Mountain National Park. By November 2006, I'll be gliding down the mountains here in Colorado! :) But still being patient and not trying to over excert myself.

Bati
April 21, 2006 9:37 AM

Hi, i torn mu legiment just the same way..playing indoor soccer.. and im havin ma surgery in 12 days...i just want to know if i'll b able to play competitive soccer again because im planning on going to spain and england for pro teams try outs next summer... so could some1 tell me if i'll be able to come back jus like i was before i got injured

Bati
April 21, 2006 9:38 AM

Hi, i torn my legiment just the same way..playing indoor soccer.. and im havin ma surgery in 12 days...i just want to know if i'll b able to play competitive soccer again because im planning on going to spain and england for pro teams try outs next summer... so could some1 tell me if i'll be able to come back jus like i was before i got injured

Robert
April 21, 2006 9:50 AM

Bati, I just got my ACL repaired 3 months ago, I also tore it playing indoor soccer. I plan to coninue playing next year and the doctor says that it will be as good as new to play on. He told me if I wasn't planning on being active after surgery, then there is actually no point in having surgery in the first place. I have also read that the surgery itself may mess with your mental game (when it comes to sports confidence) a little bit the first few weeks, but after that it will be unnoticable. I have the same concerns as you and hope that I will be able to get back to playing here next year for the college team!!! Hope your surgery goes well, keep us posted and let us know how recovery is going. :) good luck!

Wassim
April 21, 2006 10:03 AM

I am 18 years old. In june 05 I injured my left knee badly in a soccer game. The doctor told me that he thought i had torn my meniscus, he did not tell me to do any physio and it took me about 2 months to walk normaly my knee was very swollen for a while. In august 05 i wanted a second opinion cause my present doc was telling me nothing. The new doctor saw my MRI and told me I had tore my acl and my meniscus, i told him i wanted to play asap so i decided to do the surgery, and started doing pt which helped. I did the surgery in dec 05 and it went pretty well, the doctor said he only had to operate on the acl and took a peice from the hamstring, he said the meniscus would be fine. It was a pretty life changing experience and i realized how much i loved sports and soccer and was really determined to get back. However, after about 3.5 months my knee didnt seem to be improving, I went on with the pt and about 4 moths after the physio said I could finish on my own, it seemed fine but now im almost 5 months post op and my knee seems to have gotten worse in the past few weeks I've stopped working hard and do only basic exercises. Im a little worried because I still dont have full range of motion it hurts a bit to straighten all the way and I can only bend about 135, (my right knee is 150). My knee is still swollen and i cannot run and sometiemes it even hurts to walk. My next appointment is in mid may and I cannot get one sooner. Does anybody know what could be happening/or has anyone had a similar experience? Please reply me if anyone can offer advice. Thanks.

jo
April 23, 2006 10:51 AM

Hi Wassim,Bati, I had surgery early Jan for an Acl tear and minuesus repair. I have been working really hard at the PT and even on my own. I juat started running 2 weeks ago and ran outside yesterday for a while. (btw, I hurt it playing soccer, twice in two weeks). I talked to many people and also spoke to people on my team who have had the surgery before. I am 33 and people say its gets harder to recover when you are older. I presume that you guys are younger, so it should not be that bad. Wassim, I dont know what is wrong with you but I think your recovery procedure is not being monitored properly. The first thing is getting the whole rango of motion. you sometimes loose a degree or two but not more than 3. You should consider looking at other PT personnal. Bati, I have friends who have recovered completly and are back to playing competetitive sports again. look at Roy Keane (Ex Man. U ) midfielder he messed up his knee completly, Jerry Rice another pro athelete who came back from such injuries. My advice is to follow your pt well ..First range of motion then strengthening your quads. Also work on your quads before going into surgery as the better you go into surgery the better you come out. Wassim, different people take differnent times to recover, but I seriously think you should consult a specialist. I was misdiagonized the first time too. I weent for muntiple opinions too. ITs common that doctors screw up, but what can we do. Alot is up to you. Remember you know your own body better than any one else and if something is not right you already know it mentally. Take care and good luck guys. J

bea
April 23, 2006 4:13 PM

It's been exaclty 3 weeks since surgery and im still not walking. It's soooo frustrating, I have acouple friends who have had the surgery a week before me, and walked in 2 weeks totally fine. I can put some pressure on the knee(with crutches) but can't walk without them. The pressure hurts very bad. I feel like my quad is restricting my motion. It's very tense and hard in one place. When has everyone else walked? I know people are different.... but I just would like to know the average time when I can get off my cructhes, and how did you all feel your first time walking?

Vanessa
April 23, 2006 5:40 PM

Hi Bea, I had my surgery on April 6th and I am still not walking yet. I saw my doctor for the first time this past Tuesday and he told me to get rid of my crutches. I laughed at him and told him no way! I'm not even close to getting rid of them. I can put a little pressure on that leg but not without crutches. I have had pt one time and go again Tuesday. I talked to someone else who had surgery the same day as I did and he had a different doctor and his doctor told him with an ACL repair expect a minimum of four weeks with crutches. I can get my leg to about a 90 degree bend and can't get it completely straight yet. I did not have pt before surgery and I think that is why I'm not able to walk without my crutches yet. Feel free to email me at vstreet@skybest.com.

Robert
April 23, 2006 7:02 PM

Hello bea, Don't feel bad at all, it took me a long time to get off crutches because I had ACL and meniscus repair at the same time. I was on them for about 4-5 weeks post surgery. Good luck with your healing progress :)

jamEs
April 24, 2006 12:04 PM

Seems to be lots of soccer related injuries mentioned. I did mine playing indoor soccer as well. I crossed the ball kicking my leg across my body, then after the kick I planted my kicking leg and felt a pop. I'm now 9 months after my surgery and I'm still not sorted. I've found my range of motion still isn't all the way back and my knee feels a little gooey when I jog. Bea, the recovery time all varies. I think it was about 2 1/2 to 3 weeks before I was walking. I had a friend who had the surgery a couple weeks after me and he was walking in less then a week. The difference was he had a cadaver ligament, whereas mine came from my hamstring.

Jo
April 25, 2006 11:08 AM

Hi Bea, I had BPTB graft on jan 9th, I got rid of one crutch in 2.5 weeks and the other in 4 weeks. Yesterday I ran for 10 mins (3.5 months) another person I know was walking without crutches after a week but still is not running in a 3 months. So dont be alarmed, be patient and keep moving your led even while sitting if you can. Good luck

Scott
April 25, 2006 11:24 AM

I had my acl rebuilt with the hamstring graft 6 weeks ago. I was walking Limping without crutches after two weeks, at this point I can walk normally but I am still on a waiting list for physio. Can anyone sugjest any exercises to help with my recovery I could be waiting ass much as another month to get therapy!thanks

ace
April 25, 2006 6:32 PM

just had my ACL & meniscus repaired one week from today. i have experienced alot of pain since (usually when I forget to take the pain medication..hehe). Other than that, I do believe it's a longer road than what I expected. My leg has had very limited mobility and I can't lift it on my own w/o the help of someone. I know it's still very new/fresh and reading some of the comments on here, I hope to be in better shape a couple weeks from now (start rehab next week). Just glad I found this to see so many people go through what I'm going through (not that I wished this on anyone at all), but just to see the experiences of others. thanks!!

melanie
April 26, 2006 6:14 PM

hey everyone, I tore my acl playing soccer, i took a shot across my body then landed on my leg strait and hyper extended it and bruised my femur but when i went to the ER they said it wasnt my acl and i say about 5 personal trainers and they all said it wasnt my acl but when i got the MRI back guess what.. it was my acl, anyway im 16 and i play soccer all year around and i travel all the time for soccer, and now that the doctor said i'm going to be out and i cant play soccer it was like my life is being taken from me, but i tried to play on it with the special brace i had to order, my knee still buckled and its very frustrating watching my team play and doing what i love to do while sitting on the sidline anyway what is the surgery for the quickest recovery?? if any one knows please soccer_mel_mary5@yahoo.com thanks, mel

gail
April 26, 2006 6:32 PM

I am the mother of a 12(1) year old. Several things about our situation don't seem to be mentioned here while I am hungering to hear from situations similiar to ours. My daughter had an "over the top" procedure, because her growth plate had not closed. She had her reconstruction done with a cadavier tibulius anterior(2). The MRI showed her meniscus torn as well, which they intended to repair, but when they adressed it in surgery it had not surfaced(3), so they left it alone. Just as everyone here, we were devastated. She plays soccer and made the state olympic development team, playing a year up, she is on a top soccer team in the country, as well as an AAU basketball team(two bad sports for girls' knees). This could end her sports careers at the level she was at (just missing 6 mos could do that, let alone that she may not return to her own level). I tried to ask the dr. if at all possible she could return in five months(the start of fall soccer and basketball), he gave me a solid no. He says 6-9 months. He is a very well known dr. and this is his forte'. He told me if she hurt it again, it is not a matter of going back and fixing it, that she would probably never play sports again. Is it because of the over the top procedure or what? I hear of many people who have had multiple acl reconstructions and just keep bouncing back. I know that the likelyhood of injuring the other knee goes way up. It is such a hard line to walk. Of course, I am most concerned as a mother, for my daughter's health, but she showed so much potential in a world that is everything to her. That seems to sum up this whole recovery dilema. You want to work hard and push yourself to get back, but you can't push too hard or you'll ruin their knees for good?!!! I would appreciate any opinions and words of wisdom, especially concerning those points where I can't seem to find anybody in our boat

Matt
April 26, 2006 8:05 PM

Your daughter is very young and you shouldn't push her to get back into sports too early after surgery. Her chances of having arthritis in her knee later in life is much greater already because the new graft will never be as good as the original. Let her heal and strengthen her legs. Soccer isn't good for ACL's.

Belal
April 27, 2006 7:02 AM

Dear all thank you for the helpfull comments from all of you. I'm facing the same problem ACL torn. I will do the operation next two weeks. This is my e-mail belalyousif@yahoo.com. I hope one of you contact me to get detail information about the operation and how it is going to be. And what you can advise me. Appreciated your time and help alot I'm afraid .. Bye

julio
April 27, 2006 8:19 AM

hello everyone its been 7 weekes after mysurgery on march 7th and i amalready walking without the crutches it hurts when i walked but its much better than depending on something to walk i totally agree that the pain tolerance varies from person to person really i never thoguht i wasgoing to walk again andhere i am i hoping i can start running in a month and be back to play soccer in 6 months iam not rushing it but iam a soccer junkie and everyday that i dont touch a soccerball hurts please dont stop going to your pt its very important hang in there i knowits tough but well rewarding at the end good luck to evyone.

julio
April 27, 2006 8:40 AM

hello gail i just read your daughter situation andi know how hard it feels ive been soccerplayer all mylife since iwas 3 years old about 12 years ago i tored my left knee acl and kept on playing itgot to the point where i could not bend it anymore the doctor said my knee iswas like a 60 year old person i could not believe it ,anyway what iamtrying to say ishaveyourdaughter recover 100 percent in soccer you always have a second chance to make the team trust me i know when she recovers she willbe like new with abrand new knee good luck to both of you

melanie
April 27, 2006 8:50 AM

hi im 16 i love soccer and it is basically my life and this thing is seriously killing me. ive lost about 15 pounds since i tore it and i dont know what to do, im hopefully going to get surgery in the beginning of may, and when i heard 6 months untill i play soccer i almost jumped out the window

linda
April 27, 2006 2:36 PM

HI EVERYONE, I AM WRITING ABOUT MY DAUGHTER ANDREA WHO IS A SOCCER PLAYER. HER SURGERY WAS ON MARCH 15, SHE IS 6 WKS POST OP. TODAY SHE WAS JOGGING FRONT AND BACK, AS A THERAPIST WAS THROWING A TOWEL TO HER, IT WAS A TREMENDOUS FEELING TO SEE MOVEMENT ONCE AGAIN. SHE HAD PAIN FOR TWO DAYS AND NEVER AGAIN, SOME SWELLING, SOME DISCOMFORT, BUT NEVER A COMPLAINT. SHE IS 13 YEARS OLD, AND I WILL KEEP GIVING HER THE BEST CARE AND THERAPY I CAN. TO ALL YOU SOCCER PLAYERS WHO SHARE POSITIVE THOUGHTS, I THANK YOU.

Ruth
April 29, 2006 4:24 AM

Hey.. i be having my ACL reconstruction (allograft) on the 8th May... is it normal to have such a swollen leg after operation? Ruth

gerard
April 29, 2006 2:08 PM

hi everyone.i just had acl surgery a little less then a month ago.and i feel great.i have full motion back in my leg,i still walk with one crutch just as a precaution.i can walk without it but im still not 100% yet so i dont want to risk further injury.the surgery was an allograph they took a piece of my hamstring to replace the acl.it took like 2 and a half hours.the surgery was a piece of cake. the recovery was worse. that anesthesia is nasty stuff lol but it was well worth it. i cant wait to start working out again.good luck everybody. bye.

laurie
May 1, 2006 5:17 PM

i have had acl surgery 3 months ago. iam 42 years old and every nite i wake up with shooting pain going through my knee that last upto about 45 min. i can bend my leg but when i walk it wont bend at all. the dr. told me to take the brace off and continue with therapy. he says iam making slow progress, which i agree. iam trying but can only walk with my leg straight. is this normal. why is it taking so long?

Ryan Smith
May 2, 2006 5:34 AM

Cracking site!!! Well im 22 years old and used to play football 4 times a week until last june 05 when i tore my anterior cruciate ligament+ damaged my meniscus cartlidge. I was trying out for Chorley fc when it happened!I had my knee scanned in september and that is when we found out the full extent of the injury.. In Nov 04 i had the ACL reconstruction operation which i have been told by the suregoen went well... It has been six months now since my operation and i have had no physio on it at all... I have full extension of my knee and can run flat out and can kick a ball as hard/far as i want... I have played around 4 games of 5 a side on it without any problems UNTIL last weak when i felt a twinge and then my knee has swolen up and is quite sore at present. I am after some advice as to what i should do. I have not kept in contact with the club and have no way of getting physio. With me not having physio am i at risk of getting another injusy???? Should i stop playing and get into the gym????? Please Help!"!!!

jo
May 2, 2006 9:45 AM

Hi Ryan (smith) I dont know what to say because I am not at that level yet. I am 4 months post OP. Did your leg recover form the atrophy completly and was your quads and hamstrings strong enough? My understanding is that you have to ease into the level of sport you were at. Even after 6 months there could be problems as after surgey the mechanics in your knee get altered and you need some time to adjust to it. All I can say is that I would be really worried if I was you too. But saying that people tell me that often times your knee swells up even a year after surgery. I dont know what the "twinge" is. I feel twinges and cracking noises but they never really hurt and it is not much of a concern as my knee does not swell. I think most of the time your your self know how bad the injury is in your own mind set. I say judge from that, see a specialist before. And yes PT is very important especially in the first few months. You have to continue the excercizes for up to a year to strengthen your muscles. Hope nothing went seriously wrong, good luck. Jo

Anne
May 4, 2006 6:49 AM

Why did you choose not to have the cadaver ligament?

choedhar
May 4, 2006 8:36 AM

i am post-op 2 months. i still feel bit pain when i walk for about half an hour. i mean normal walk. is it normal. the pain is like pulling my humstrings down, and specially pain at the heel.

Missy
May 4, 2006 3:38 PM

I had surgery April 25 on my torn ACL and I had damage to my meniscus from a Soccer game.I am 33 I have played soccer forever and workout 5 to 6 times a week. I had no idea what to expect. I really didn't think recovery would be so slow. I had my first PT today not so bad but like I said it was my first appointment. My OS says I can put weight on my right leg but I am not able to. Still getting around on crutches and very frustrated. Does anyone know how long until I will be feeling back to normal. I can hardly do anything for myself not to mention my family. Advice to anyone about to have this surgery... make sure you have someone that can stay with you 24/7 the first few days and get a lot done before hand. I couldn't have done it without my husband and mother-in-law. Any encouragement would be greatly appreciated. Good Luck to all.

Vanessa
May 4, 2006 6:14 PM

Hi Missy I am four weeks post surgery for torn ACL. I am just now using one crutch and I am just now starting to walk without any assistance a little around the house. I'm like you, I didn't think the recovery would take this long. I thought the surgery would be the hard part. I am going to therapy twice a week and it really helps. I can tell difference after each visit. I wasn't able to put much weight on that leg until about two weeks after surgery. Good Luck!

rick
May 4, 2006 9:22 PM

Hi, i had ACL surgery two days ago (basketball injury). The surgery took less than an hour, out-patient. The first night was my problem wherein i kept on waking up because of pain which the doctor told me to expect. Second day was a lot better. Third day was my first check-up with the surgeon, blood was drained out of my knee, afterwhich i can now walk without crutches. I'll start my rehab 3 days from now, and i'm looking forward that it would make things even better.

Ellen
May 5, 2006 1:48 PM

Hi, I am a 42 year old female. This site is very interesting because it is fascinating how everyone's experiences are so different. So here is my story. I tore my ACL and meniscus playing football with my kids about 5 months ago. On April 18 I had ACL surgery and they removed part of my meniscus. It was suppose to be out-patient but they kept me overnight. They used an allograft. I used pain pills for a few days, then after that at night to help me sleep for about a week. The doctor did not insist I use crutches, so I did not. He did insist that I use the leg brace, but I absolutely hate it so I rarely do. I was able to drive about 9 days after surgery. I have a home daycare and returned to work after 6 days. The total days it has been since surgery is 17. I have been to PT 4 times. I am allowed to bend my knee 90 degrees and I can almost straighten it. I am riding the stationary bike and using leg weights. I am uncomfortable and swollen at the end of the day. Icing and elevation helps. I realize it has only been 17 days since surgery but I am already frustrated. I guess it is partially because I was not able to do many things for the 5 months prior to my surgery after my accident occurred. My e-mail is EHarris266@hotmail.com if anyone wants to compare stories or has any questions.

M.T.
May 6, 2006 11:14 AM

Hi all! I am 30 days post op, 48 year old female, Health & PE instructor at a middle school. I tore my ACL, medial meniscus and some tissue from my femur...doing a jumping jack in PE class!!! I tried to build up my leg and avoid surgery by doing PT for 4 months but it took the doctor telling me I wouldn't run or ski again unless I had surgery to wake me up! I had surgery on April 6, out patient using an allograft. Surgery went well, started PT 4 days later. I share the frustrated feeling so many of you express. I am on one crutch, wearing the massive "DonJoy" brace. I spend 2 hours 3 X a week in PT. I probably won't be going back to work this school year (ends about June 15) as I just can't tolerate being up for such a long period of time, plus I have a lot of stairs to maneuver at school, as well as teaching PE. My leg is very weak and I only can walk normally after about 1 hour of PT. That ability goes away within about 2 hours though and I am back to walking with a bent leg. I still keep trying to push myself to do things and get very tired. I guess I am somewhat resigned to being limited in strength for another few months although I HATE IT! I'd love to ditch the brace but I am supposed to wear it except when I am sleeping, showering, icing and doing PT. I am at 127 flexion and 5 extension, still swollen and have a constant low grade soreness. Good luck!

jenn
May 7, 2006 3:32 PM

Hi, I just had my surgery last mon, (today's sun) and still can't bend my leg to walk or anything. My first PT will be tomorrow and I'm excited to get some movement going. Its really great to read everyone's comments about how frustrating it is. I was more worried about how much it was going to hurt, instead of how little I would be able to do so far. I had a complete tear from teaching a skiing student how to stop, and obviously she didnt. I look forward to reading more from others experiences

Marc
May 7, 2006 9:56 PM

Hey, I'm a 40yr old male who is fairly active (running, biking or swimming 3-4x/week) I tore my ACL skiing (weird accident that happened whenI bent over to lift a a kid off the ground and my ski twisted into a weird position. The typical pop feeling and a bolt of pain along the back of my leg. this happened three months ago. Looks like it is just ACL, with perhaps some meniscus trimming - this is all from the MRI so things may be different when they get in there. I'm scheduled for an allograft (my Ortho does this 2-3x/week via this procedure) this Friday (May 12th). I've been able to keep up some cycling (no mtn-biking, just road) and swimming so I think I have kept a good deal of my quad strength, but with no running I know my ham's have lost a bit. Any recommendations in the few days leading up to it? All I've read and heard says that post-op be a zealot for the exercises to regain strength and mobility. Thanks for any advice - marc_b@yahoo.com

Marc
May 7, 2006 10:29 PM

Hey, I'm a 40yr old male who is fairly active (running, biking or swimming 3-4x/week) I tore my ACL skiing (weird accident that happened whenI bent over to lift a a kid off the ground and my ski twisted into a weird position. The typical pop feeling and a bolt of pain along the back of my leg. this happened three months ago. Looks like it is just ACL, with perhaps some meniscus trimming - this is all from the MRI so things may be different when they get in there. I'm scheduled for an allograft (my Ortho does this 2-3x/week via this procedure) this Friday (May 12th). I've been able to keep up some cycling (no mtn-biking, just road) and swimming so I think I have kept a good deal of my quad strength, but with no running I know my ham's have lost a bit. Any recommendations in the few days leading up to it? All I've read and heard says that post-op be a zealot for the exercises to regain strength and mobility. Thanks for any advice - Marc

Jeff Moore
May 8, 2006 8:55 AM

I tore my ACL on 4.26.06 after someone fell on my leg at a concert. I have a huge trip planned this summer & don't want to miss that so I'm debating on whether to do the surgery now or to wait until the fall. All I want to do in the end is be able to snowboard again. Any chance that I'll be in shape for the winter season if I do the surgery now? Or should I just cut my losses & wait till the next year. Hmmm.... wow, this really sucks...

Cookie
May 8, 2006 8:51 PM

My daughter, who is 15 tore her ACL while playing in a Varsity b-ball game this past Feb. She was coming to a jumpshot/stop from a fast sprint down the court when it tore...no popping or noise...not a bunch of swelling either...she did some rehab for about 2 weeks...to get swelling out and strenghen muscles before surgery...Dr. chose to do the petella tendon graft even though he has done all the others..e.g.>>>...cadavor, hamstring etc...but for athletes who intend to do more full throttle H.S. or College Basketball/Sports...the studies show that the patella tendon graft is the strongest....I've been reading some of these post about people getting back into sports..after only weeks ...months after surgery some without any re-hab at all....our Dr. and most say you should not do any sport for 6 months to a year after surgery of a reconstructed knee...and my daughter who was going to do track...dance team, swim team.. etc...with such a promising future...(she was the only Fresh. in our league that was a starter..and very fast...so was looking forward to doing track etc.....) had to sit out and hope that she can come back for next season of basketball and others ...she's even thinking of sitting out one year of volleyball to make sure of the recuperation of her knee...so for some of you that have children 11, 12 and 13 yrs. old wanting to get your kids back sooner than expected because they were doing so well...think about the big picture and don't get them back out there sooner then they should be. The health of their knee could depend on it. Our Dr. did tell my daughter at our 2 month post op. visit that she could start jogging...which surprised us and our Physical Therapist...she said sometimes full out running is easier on the knee than the constent banging of jogging...she's done some jogging around the track...walks the curves and jogs the straight a-ways...and does some jogging on a mini tramp..which absorbs some of the impact...ice is important ..hard for me to get my daughter to sit down enough to do it though sometime..I know when she gets back into a basketball game..I'll be the worried one biting my nails praying that this doesn't happen again...or to the other knee..which I know is a possibility....hang in there everybody....I wonder if there are any success stories out there...of years down the road of someone who had a torn ACL or meniscus...(by the way the meniscus was not harmed in my daughters case.....) and went back to H.S. or College Sports with no other problems to that previouslly injured knee ........luck to everyone out there with knee problems.

Robert
May 8, 2006 9:23 PM

I have made several posts on here about my own surgery, but I just wanted post an ACL success storie. Among some other famous athletes, Jerry Rice, the world famous wide receiver for the 49ers had ACL surgery and recovered to become one of the best recievers ever to play the game of football. USAToday reports that 80,000 people tear their ACL each year! www.financeprofessor.com) So don't feel unusual or bad about this injury. Take it in stride, recover and go for the gold!(

jo
May 9, 2006 3:24 PM

Hi, I think it is not reasonable to compare return to sport with a professional athelete, because they are monitored day in and day out. So I feel it premature to compare "us" to a professional athelete like Jerry Rice or Robbie Keane (Man U - midfielder). Saying that, I would like to say that I have people on my team who are regular atheletes like us who are still playing years after their surgery. They all say that it does not bother. If we could not return to high level sport why would it be necessary to choose a particular graft or in some cases even the operation. The one thing my collegues tell me is that dont cheat on your excercizes and be regular work hard. The one or two days at PT are great but do the same when you are on your own, inorder to get back to playing competitively. Good luck..

Rob Klaiber
May 10, 2006 1:11 AM

I am a 36 yr old avid soccer. I play an indoor men's league with my son. I tore my right ACL on my birthday 4/2/06 and my left one on my 1 yr aniversary 5/6/96. The differance between the two surgeries and the recovery is amazing. The first surgery took the tendon off the front of my knee and replaced the ACL with it and it was three weeks before I started therapy and 5 weeks before I could get along with 1 crutch or no crutches. The last one used a cadaver replacement and was an out patient surgery. The surgery was on thursday April 27, 2006 and by Monday I was in therapy and working out. One week later I was was walking (although a little uncomfortable in the beginning) without my crutches. The pain is completely gone and the swelling comes and goes. I have a CPM machine and a Game Ready ice machine(highly recomended). MY first surgery had me out of work (carpenter: frame houses, lots of ladders) for 6 months and no sports for 18 months. This surgery I will be back to work in 3 months and sports in no more than 9 months. Medicine has come a long way. Don't lose hope if you need the surgery or have just had it. There is a light at the end of he tunnel.

Ravi
May 10, 2006 5:13 PM

I am 30 yrs old now and I tore my ACL in Dec 2000 and at that time didn't decide to go for the surgery and went for rehab and it worked fine for some time. I was playing tennis, volleyball and learned to compensate for the week knee BUT accidents did happen and over last 5 years I had about 4 incidents where I twisted my knee and it swelled for a few days and then it was normal. After the last incident, I wanted to get the surgery done and went to the doctor and he did an MRI and confirmed that the ACL was torn along with a slight damage to lateral meniscus. He will be doing a patellar graft (autograft) and I wanted to know if you have done the patellar or hamstring grafts and any experiences with that. I have some family commitments so I am planning to have the surgery done in September and meanwhile I will be on a rigorous leg strengthening exercise. Reading all the comments posted here, I am gaining confidence to handle the post-op rehab. Thanks to all of you for sharing your experience.

Bati
May 10, 2006 7:48 PM

Hey guys,, Finally had my surgery done with after of 5 months of waiting!! daym dis gov't need to work on der health care:D:D lol anyways.. surgery went well , been to PT... dr. appointment this monday.... i ahet ACL's daym dey're soo annoyin.. hope ddun tear ma new 1 now lol :D

Kiki
May 11, 2006 7:27 AM

Ravi, my husband just had the ACL reconstruction via patellar tendon graft on April 13. The first week seemed to be the toughest, but the pain medicine did help. After the first week, everything will get better day by day, and he only take the pain medicine when he went to PT. This past Tuesday, he's at 140 degress flexion and 4 degree extention. So he would have to work on his extention to try to keep the leg straight. PT also want him to ditch the crutches and walk with the brace locked straight. Another thing is if you think you might have problem with general anethesia, you can talk to the anesthesiologist and opt for a spinal block/epidural. This is what my husband got since he throw up for 24 hours straight from the general anethesia when he had his appendix removed last year. With the spinal block/epidural, he felt great after the surgery. He also asked for sedation, so he nap through the surgery and didn't know a thing. Hope that helps. =)

Kiki
May 11, 2006 7:28 AM

Ravi, my husband just had the ACL reconstruction via patellar tendon graft on April 13. The first week seemed to be the toughest, but the pain medicine did help. After the first week, everything will get better day by day, and he only take the pain medicine when he went to PT. This past Tuesday, he's at 140 degress flexion and 4 degree extention. So he would have to work on his extention to try to keep the leg straight. PT also want him to ditch the crutches and walk with the brace locked straight. Another thing is if you think you might have problem with general anethesia, you can talk to the anesthesiologist and opt for a spinal block/epidural. This is what my husband got since he throw up for 24 hours straight from the general anethesia when he had his appendix removed last year. With the spinal block/epidural, he felt great after the surgery. He also asked for sedation, so he nap through the surgery and didn't know a thing. Hope that helps. =)

Kay
May 11, 2006 10:52 AM

Had surgery on April 12, 2006. I am still in a hinged brace. I am having a heck of a time trying to keep the thing on. Whenever I walk, it slides down my leg. Any solution to this problem? Doing fine otherwise, just trying to get past this brace problem.

Dani
May 11, 2006 8:09 PM

hey i am a competitive gymnast and i tore my acl about 2 months ago. i am about 4 weeks out of surgery and in that stupid brace but i finally am cruth free. i am having the same problem, my brace keeps slipping down the PT told me that when i put it on to position it a little higher htan what i want so if it falls it will be in the right place and that helpsa little i guess but my velcro keeps coming undone also which totally sucks. anyone have advice i feel like my skin is so tight in my knee what should i do?o and anything else with scars like how to ge htem not as noticeable i guess u could say thanks!!

Kiki
May 12, 2006 6:35 AM

Kay & Dani, my husband also had the same problem that the brace keep sliding down when walking. He did try to put it on higher, but still slide down after a while. =( Dani, the OS asked us to put "Pure" vitamin E oil on the scar. We started to do that 3 weeks post-op after the incision is completely closed and clean. That will keep the skin moist and softer. I also had heard that could make the scar look less noticeable later.

Dan
May 12, 2006 8:03 AM

I tore my acl in a ski accident on March 30 and had my surgery (using a hamstring graft) on April 27. I have 0 extension but only 45 flexion. I have a PT session this afternoon and I think my flexion should go up a bit today. The thing is that the swelling in my knee has just began to go down and still has quite a way to go. I would love to have some of you let me know your experience with the swelling.

Mark
May 12, 2006 11:10 AM

I just had my surgery done May 5th, and tore my acl playing basketball. I'm in about a week right now, but I'm having some pain in my calf. Has anyone else had any serious pain in their calf and if so how long does it usually last?

Dan
May 12, 2006 1:27 PM

Mark, it looks like I'm about a week ahead of you in the recovery period. I haven't had any pain in my calf at all since the surgery, but plenty of levels of pain and discomfort in, and around the sides of my knee. What are you taking for pain?

Steve
May 12, 2006 2:35 PM

Mark, I had MAJOR calf pain. This was a result of my hamstrings tightening up at the knee joint. My hamstring accommodated the lethargic quadricep muscle. It will get better for you as time goes on. Massage your calf & hamstring muscles. Epsom Salt baths help as well. My thigh & calf hurt so bad that I couldnt sleep for the first few weeks. Dont worry though.... it went away. I tore my ACL skiing March 4th. I had Patellar ACL surgery on April 4th (5 weeks ago). Let me focus on the promising news for you guys.... I was at my PT yesterday (5 weeks post op), and now have 0 degrees to 155 degrees - full range!!!. I'm able to do stair step up's & down's holding 90lbs; wall squats (with a ball) holding 90lbs; ham string curls & leg extensions at 25lbs. Three weeks ago... I was not ANYWHERE near these levels. Basically what I am trying to say is.... "HANG IN THERE!!!! It gets MUCH better!!! - FAST" You guys can do it!!!! As long as you keep going, your recovery will be quicker than it seems on the current day. During the first few weeks, I kept my kryo cuff on whenever I was sitting (I brought it to work with me). Icing in the first few weeks was a major player of my fast recovery. I was TOTALLY bummed. I thought I was never going to get past this because I was so stiff & sore..... But I hung in there, and got through it. You guys will too!!! Keep stretching every day. It hurts, but it is very important. Every doctor is different, but my doctor didnt recommend wearing a brace. Though it was a little uncomfortable (not to mention scary) at first, it strengthened & flexed my knee every step. I think this is one of the main reasons I have full range of motion after 5 weeks post op. When trying to achieve a larger degree of angle (during stretching), your skin on your knee will feel like it is going to rip. Just remember that this is normal (it is the scar tissue of the incision on the inner side of your skin attached to your knee). You have to tear it apart from the knee to get past that "skin" pain. Keep pushing your stretches... your skin is NOT going to rip open (even though it feels like it will). You can also massage your skin at the incision point. This will help loosen the scar tissue. As far as the scar.... keep it out of the sun for a few months if you dont want to darken. Throw a few band aids on it (or sunscreen) and you should be fine. Hang in there!!! Though the rehab has some pain, you WILL get through it!!! God Bless.... Steve

Carollynne
May 12, 2006 4:21 PM

I too had my surgery on may 5th. I did not have too much post operative pain, except that night. The painkillers worked wonders. Painkillers generally make me nauseous, but I took gravol at every dose . I never felt sick. I took painkillers just in case for 2 days, but afterwards they weren't needed. My calf muscles are quite sore, so I stretch and massage and wear a tensor bandage, which, by the way, has helped tremendously with the swelling. I start physio on monday, I can't wait. I feel like I could have started earlier, because despite the calf pain, the swelling has gone down (I can clearly see my kneecap), but I had to follow surgeon's orders! I tore mine in 2001. I was by myself in a bus in Costa Rica, I lifted my too heavy backpack (a lesson to learn is that you must pack light!) with my knees and I heard an extremely loud pop in my right knee and my leg gave out...

Dani
May 12, 2006 7:46 PM

Hey I had PT today and today was the first day since the surgery that they rubbed the scars and it was painful especially on the big incision on the front of my knee, i had the patellur tendon, is there anything i can do to help with the pain, i mean he put me to tears.... he toldmeto rub them at home but i am in just so much pain when i do it help advice anythign please!! thanks so much

Christine
May 12, 2006 9:32 PM

Hi everyone, I just stumbled onto this website and I find it really helpful. I'm glad to hear that all of you are doing well! I had my ACL surgery in January and am not doing so well. I am just now starting to walk normally. I don't know whether there is something wrong with me because I have done everything I have been told to do to recover. I am athletic and don't think I am a wimp. Next week I might get another MRI to see if there is something else wrong, which there is some hope because I do see some improvement. After surgery my knee swelled up the size of my head and didn't go down for three months. I had excruciating pain for at least a month. Now the pain I am having is right above my knee cap. Has anyone else had a similar recovery, types of pain, or experience? I am usually an optimistic, motivated person, but these set backs are causing me to lose hope that I will ever play sports again. Any comment or advice would be appreciated. Thanks, Christine

Yulia
May 13, 2006 6:38 AM

Hello. How are things going for you? Yes I study alot about knees too. I want to be a Knee doctor when I get older. I am 18. I was never involved with sports ( on an actual team). I always like gym class, Now I LOVE Gym class, I taught myself gymnastics and I dance ( I do the SAME dances Britney spears does) All I did for that was follow her Concert Videos. I am really good at it since I was 13. I had PFS in my right knee, because someone decides to kick me. That finally felt normal in early November 05. I never had problems with my kneecap gonig out of place, still don't and hope I NEVER do. My knee NEVER gave out before. I had PT for the kneecap thing. In October 05 I saw my oS for the last time and he said that everything was looking good ( the ligaments and menisci). I happy for that, He said I was allowed to play sports. Three days after I saw him, I was running away from my dog because he was chasing me (at night yet.) I was runnig really fast, lost control and fell on my knee (flexed, with foot turned inward.) My knee had NO instability, It hurt (burning sensation) like crazy inside the joint, and laterally. I had very little swelling. My kneecap didn't hurt either. My knee didn't pop at all until the next day. I was able to walk on it and play my tennis in gym class (although I had pain in it for 2 weeks.) Then It felt much better. Again, December 15 ( last gym class day for my group) I was playing touch football, someone threw the ball to me, I caught it, when I went to turn, I ended up on the floor in some pain in the same place. Again I felt no popping and I didn't feel my knee go out. I still had stability in it. DECEMBER 25, I was doing my dances, I twisted the same knee, it popped, went out on me, and I fell. It hurt like heck in the same place and I had some swelling. I was able to walk on it. Ever since then, It feels like it want to go out on me ( only gave out about 2 or 3 times since christmas day.) Usually it feels like theres too much play in it. I still have pain in it. I wanted to go out for soccer in February 2006. Obviously I couldn't. My parents talked to my OS and He wasn't sure why my knee went out on me. he said it was ok to play sports. I still kept up with my dancing and some of the gymnastic stuff. I still have too much play in the knee. Now, in the last 6 weeks or so, I have pain on the inner side of the knee ( medial side, not in the jointline and not in the kneecap.) I do not know what is causing the pain on the medial side (in other words close to the MCL) and the Looseness int he knee. Sorry to bore you with all the info here. I just would like to know what's going on with my knee. I probably won't see my OS till the summer sometime. I also love to swim. My Email is alianna_hodiya@yahoo.com YULIA IF ANYONE Can Answer/try to answer these questions, EMAIL ME

Dani
May 13, 2006 7:51 AM

Hey early i read hat someone was having pain in their calf. I woul ask the doc about that right away i had that for like a day and all the docs freaked out and thought i had a blood clot but i had the pain in my calf prolly for about 3 days and then it went away. I would get it checked just in case and until then rubbing it... very lightly... seemed to help me hope you get better

bob
May 13, 2006 12:24 PM

I was diagnosed with a PARTIAL tear in my ACL 3 weeks ago along with a osteochondial defect of my femural head. My OS feels my lack of knee function is due to the defect not the ACL. However, everytime I go into full extension I think I feel my ACL being impinged upon. Does anyone have experience with ACL IMPINGEMENTS OR KNOW WHERE I CAN GET SOME INFORMATION!!!

Kiki
May 15, 2006 7:47 AM

Did anyone has numb patch around the incision area (the cut where they harvest the patellar tendon)? It's like there's no sensation on the skin when you touch it, but you feel the pressure inside. It's such a strange feelings. I wonder if the sensation there would ever come back.

Bobby
May 15, 2006 8:09 AM

My name is Bobby and I posted on the site on March 22, 2006 and April 18th. Hello everyone and I hope you are all doing fine. It has been 53 days since the operation and it is going great. I go to PT two times a week and I was having a hard time with the range of motion. My range is completely back. After the wonderful stretched that the physical therapist performs on me. A little pain but you have to tolerate it. I started on the bicycle 2 weeks ago and also the elliptical. I was able to walk normally less than one week after the surgery but it swelled when I was on it a lot. The only pain that I feel now is about twice a week I get VERY achy pains in the knee. The doctor said that it was from the screws in the knee. I also as someone had mentioned have no feeling in the outside of my knee where the patellar tendon was removed. I am going to have to ask my therapist about that and see if it is normal. Other than that I have started to jog once a week for 1.5 miles and then ice immediately after and also perform many leg exercised on the days that I do not have therapy. Just wanted to fill you all in and give you some feedback.

Robert
May 15, 2006 11:22 AM

Bobby, I have just recently started to jog and ride the bike also! I have a little bit of pain like you described, but other than that I think everything is going ok. Everytime I bend my knee I hear a click sound and I'm not sure if this is normal or not. But my knee is also completely numb on left side (left knee) of where the patellar tendon was cut out. Since everyone has described this wierd feeling also, I just assume that it is normal. Its good to hear everyone's stories! I keep on coming back to this site because it really helps in my recovery!

Dani
May 15, 2006 5:45 PM

yeah i have the numb feeling too well actually no feeling my doctor said it was because when they made the large incision that they cut through a nerve and that most likely you wont get the feeling back there ever. all the people i have talked to says it doesnt bother them much except if you are a girl with shaving...i have the clicking too the PT said it was just the scar tissue and everyting getting all setteled in there hopefully it willg o away soon but i was wondering if anybody else was feeling like something moving back and forth over it. I am about 1 month out and i get this feeling when i bend like something is moving over it and its painful.. anyone else?.....

Duka
May 15, 2006 6:01 PM

I am getting ma surgery tomorrow May 16, 2006. i'm quite scared and anxious. i have this bad cold that might interfere with the procedure. but i decided to go through with it. i have been waiting for this day for two and a half montsh now. my knee is okay right now. just yesteday, at a birthday party, i danced and felt allright. goodluck to all those getting the surgery.

Steve
May 15, 2006 7:12 PM

I had my ACL surgery on FEb 27 of this year 2006. I have a VERY cautious doctor. It has been almost 3 months and I am still wearing my leg brace and I am not allowed to go running or swimming. I am allowed to ride the stationary bike. I also have numbness. I was told that it gets better, but you wont get back all of the feeling. I have definately seen improvement since right after the surgery so I am optpmistic. I really want to go skiing in January in 2007, but my Doctor might not approve it. My PT said that I am scheduled to just start returning to non-contact sports at that time. Well best of luck to you all.

Donna
May 15, 2006 7:21 PM

My son is having ACL surgery this wednesday and I am a nervous wreck for him. He is only 19 and damaged it playing basketball at college. He completely torn it and he also damaged some of the muniscus tissue. Lets hope he makes out as good as you guys have.

Walter
May 16, 2006 2:45 PM

Donna , I think he will be just fine i'm 28 years old very active, I tore mine playing soccer i'm into my 8th week full motion feeling really good about it, i'm sure he's quite athletic it helps a lot, i had dramatic improvements .wherever he does tell him to really do the excersices at home helps tons when you get to PT. If all goes well i'll be back on the pitch by november. good luck all.

crit
May 16, 2006 5:04 PM

i had acl surgury march 14 2006 from a soccer injury. i was going in for the ball and the keeper cleated the side of my knee and it felt like my knee exploded inside. but now im 9 weeks out of surgury with a knee imobilizer on. i had it off for a while but my straightening was not where it was supposed to be so i put it back on. i am light jogging on treadmill, the eliptical, and stationary bike along with many other exercises. suprisingly to me my doctor tells me i will return to sports months out of surgury in august. its boring on the sideline so i know how all of u feel. good luck with all

Donovan
May 16, 2006 7:49 PM

No worries. I had my acl surgery March 15, 2006 for a soccer injury much like Adam's. Right after surgery, it felt awful. Keep up on the pain meds. It sucks playing catch up. The at home exercises are important. Biggest thing is flexability. I have started running this week. (2 miles a day.) I am having very little pain and plan on returning to the soccer field by end of July or August.

choedhar
May 17, 2006 5:07 AM

my name is choedhar. I am a Tibetan and i had an acl injury in 2004 by playing basket ball. Ever since i had been unconfortable with my knee and i thought it was just a simple muscle problem and it would disappear, and i could soon play. But unfotunately it didn't. Then this year i had an acl surgery(1st March 2006). Rightnow it is almost three months, but still i can't run like a horse which my doctor had told me before the surgery. I am bit worried about my knee and i am thinking what is going to happen to my knee, and beside that i am also equally worried whether the screws used by the doctors will ever bring me pain and other problems in future. Therefore please, if you guys have any imformation on it, please, do let me know. tell me how much time that i have to live untill i can regain my earlier strength on my knee? My thigh right leg muscle has come down, so is it allowed for me to do weight lifting excerce to regain strength? Thank you so much. Godd luck to all of you.

Carollynne
May 17, 2006 7:35 AM

Hi Choedar, You should be able to do some exercises to strengthen your legs at this point, such as squats, but you really should consult with a physiotherapist. It can take a very long time before you regain your strenght, sometimes close to a year, but that depends on each person, their commitment to doing the prescribed exercises, etc... It is very important to do physiotherapy. Do you have access to a stationnary bike? You may want to try that, as well. Very importantly, try not to worry too much, stay positive and motivated to do all that it takes to regain strength in your leg. You will be able to run again. I have had my surgery on may 5th and things have been going incredibly well. I have pretty good range of motion. My leg is reasonably strong considering that I was operated on 12 days ago, and I should be able to get rid of the crutches next week. Good luck! Carollynne

jo
May 17, 2006 9:54 AM

Hi, Has any one experienced knotting of the muscles after ACL reconstruction. I am 4 months now post op. But my quads seem to have small knots at the point where they attach to the knee (outside). I still have pains, and aches in the knee, joint but it feels stable and is stong and they are just annoying more than painful. I even tried playing on it but I was more of a passenger and did not want to risk it yet. I wanted to know if knotting is a common side effect and how can I treat it - get rid of it. J

Ian
May 18, 2006 10:56 AM

I am 2 days post op just trying to get through some annoying pain..I had some meniscal tear and reconsstructed acl in which i injusred playing basketball coming down the wrong way on my pivot foot..any good advice to a speedy recovery would be apppreciated, right now my knee brace is hooked up to one of those cooling machines you plug in the wall that sends cool air to my knee which helps with the swelling.

Nancy
May 18, 2006 12:32 PM

Hi- Had ACL replacement on May 5th, 2006. I do not have much pain in the knee but in my lower leg where they harvested the bone. I cannot place full weight on the leg because of this pain. My P.T. feels that I am behind in where I should be. Can't get past the lower pain. Anyone else experience the lower bone pain? I am faithful on the exercises at home 3x's per day, but feel that I just am not progressing fast enough. Any thoughts?

Marc Burckin
May 18, 2006 9:15 PM

I had my ACL allograft last Frididay (12-May). Making progress day by day in regaining some strength and putting 75% weight on the 'bad' leg. Like Nancy I am having some pain on the lower leg - near/on the Tibia I believe. As I had an allograft there is no reason for pain from harvesting. Any ideas? I'm doing my 6-7 hrs/day on the CPM - perhaps is my not aligned right in there and could this cause the problem? Any ideas appreciataed - marc_b@yahoo.com

Kathy
May 19, 2006 8:40 AM

On May 1st, my 20 year old daughter tore her ACL in her left knee playing basketball in college. She will have surgery within the next two weeks hopefully. We are trying to make a final decision on Allograft or Autograft - definitely pattelar tendon either way. She's extremely active, has two more years of basketball in college and loves to run and work out and we want the strongest possible outcome. We're leaning toward autograft as you know what you're getting, etc. Anyone have any opinions? Seem to be lots of pros and cons both ways.

Kathy
May 19, 2006 8:53 AM

On May 1st, my 20 year old daughter tore her ACL in her left knee playing basketball (open gym) in college. She will have surgery in the next 2 weeks hopefully and we are trying to decide on allograft or autograft. Definitely pattelar tendon either way. We're leaning toward autograft as you know what you're getting, no risk of disease, etc., etc. She is extremely active, has two more years of basketball in college, loves to run, work out so we want the best long-term outcome. Anyone with strong opinions either way?

Kenny
May 20, 2006 2:49 AM

Nice website here!! Good stories! My injury happened in Iraq though. In November we were playing football and I went down after I did a stutter step to get by someone when I went down. I took time off while I was there and just layed around. Couple weeks later I was up and moving around...slowly. Didnt have the technology to tell me that I tore my ACL and partially tear in my miniscal. Finished my tour in Iraq and I had surgery on April 25th. I had the patellar surgery. I still cant straighten my leg out all the way. I can bend my knee about 90 degrees. I'm walking with crutches. When will I be able to straighten out my leg?? Thanks everybody!

adrian
May 21, 2006 11:22 AM

i had my acl replacement on the 10 of may and i still have pain .i still get pain killers i i m still on my cruches and i have my brace on ,any sugestions about the pain

Dani
May 21, 2006 8:01 PM

HEY! so kenny i am about 5 out of surgery and it was the first time today that i was able to completely straighten out my leg i mena you know it kinda likie locks out, but i was able to have it straight about 2 weeks out of surgery. My PT had me just lay there and put a pillow under my ankle so that my leg was kind of just suspended there and that hurt like crazy!!! but it def. did help a lot. all i have to say it that make sure you do your physcial therapy and ice thats what helped me the most and i am getting better slowly but surely.

cookie
May 22, 2006 6:06 AM

Hey Kathy....my daughter tore her ACL also playing basketball...she was running full speed and came to a sudden jump stop to shoot and it tore......not too much pain or swelling but the Dr. made her wait about 2 weeks for surgery to reduce swelling and do some P.T. to get it strong...because he said the stronger you were before surgery the better rehab she would have....we did the autograph...he said it was the strongest compared to the hamstring or others...and if you use the allograph/(cadavier) it is more expensive....harder to get and chance of infection/disease from donor....so we went with her patella tendon...which is what makes the rehab a little harder....that is where she is was the sorest..and she still has numbness under the graft and to the side of it...Dr. say sometimes it goes away sometimes not..and it will be a long time before she'll feel comfortable going down on that knee...my husband had the same surgery about 20 yrs ago...his knee is not numb or sore ...(on the outside anyway...I'm sure he'll have to have a total knee replacement sometime...he is just trying to wait as long as possible for more improvements on the surgery...)....your daughter will probably be away from basketball for a full year also....our doctor is saying 6 months to a year...she had the accident Feb.6 and surgery Feb. 27....she'd doing well...has started jogging some and does P.T. 2 days a week now...it was 3 times a week...she is only 15 and was a Freshman starting on our H.S. Varsity Team...and did about every other sport...but had to sit out track and will not do swim team this summer...she is probably not going to do Volleyball either..just to make sure she is ready for H.S. Basketball in November...BUT....IT IS NOT UNCOMMON FOR THE ACL INJURY TO HAPPEN TO THE OPPOSITE KNEE OR EVEN THE SAME ONE...she still wants to play college ball ....but I'm hoping she doesn't...I'll be watching every H.S. game for the next 3 years sitting on pins and needles hoping it doesn't happen again..but trying to stay positive for her..... (-: Good luck ....keep me posted on your daughters condition....where does she play college ball at??

Graeme Carroll
May 22, 2006 11:08 AM

Hi there, Encouraging website. I tore my ACL several months ago whilst playing football (soccer), it was only noticed once the surgian went in to repair my cartliadge which i torn the same day (2005). My recovery is similar to yours where i only had the opp which used a hamstring graft, two weeks ago. I am allready only using one crutch and walk with a slight limp. I am worried all the recovery is going to fast as i dont want to damage what seems to be a good piece of work by the surgian. Any ideas anyone? Hope all goes well for all of us!!! Once again encouraging and useful website!!

Terry parkin
May 23, 2006 9:44 AM

Hi, it`s great reading everyone`s comments and it gives me hope that someday I will be back to normal .I tore my acl at work falling off a platform 3-4ft above the ground and landing on my right knee.(March 21\06.) Due to this happening at work I got an mri 2 weeks later and surgery at a private clinic on May 1\06.My surgen used the hamstring tendon on me.He also had to repair under my kneecap, meniscus and cartilage.It`s been three weeks since my injury.I go to physio and do exercises three times a day.The most painful time for me is at night when I`m trying to sleep.I`ve got my knee up on pillows with an ice pack on it but my knee still aches like a toothache.It causes me to run for another ice pack every hour and a half.I`m only getting 3-4 hours sleep at night is anyone else experiencing this? When will it stop? Other than this things are progressing well. I`m walking with a brace but only for 10 min or so till my leg starts to throb.I`ve got good movement in it (so my therapist tells me).As my job is very physically demanding (I`m 45 and work at a planermill) my surgeon tells me that it`s going to be at least 3 months before I can go back to even light duty at work.One other note ,I got fluid removed from my knee 11 days post op. It was the most painful exprience of this whole ordeal my surgeon was completely overworked with patients lined up down the corridor so he hurriedly froze my knee then almost immediately jammed a large needle in my knee to drain off fluid. My wife could here my scream clearly in the waiting room and I`m sure it shocked the other patients.If your offered this procedure think twice about it as I`ve been since told that the body will re absord this fluid .Two days later my knee was just as puffy as when I started.Thanks for the time and I will check this website often for your comments.

Kiki
May 24, 2006 6:57 AM

Terry, are you considering to get the DonJoy iceman (cryotherapy machine)? In this way, you don't have to worry about ice packs, and the iceman could stay cold for about 6 hours. My husband is 6 weeks post op, and he's still using it every night. We bought it online for under $200 brand new included shipping. Our insurance didn't cover the iceman and it will cost us $15 per day if we rent it from the hospital. So buying it ourselves is cheaper. He's also taking ibufoven (or advil) to help the swelling.

Cookie
May 24, 2006 9:56 PM

Yes I agree w/ Kiki..Terry...."RICE" Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.....is always good...especially ICE AND ELEVATION....my daughters DR. put a fluid drain tube in her knee post surgery that we had to drain a few times in 24 hours...that was kind of yucky...but compared to the people I have talked to that didn't have the drain tube inserted....it is worth it...because they said the fluid inside made the pain feel like hot pokers were burning inside your knee....my daughter had the drain tube taken out the next day...and that was it..... not too much swelling....so sorry you are having trouble....and the Dr's are always running behind...wonder why they book that many patients???....moving it is good for pain and swelling too.

stella marie
May 24, 2006 11:11 PM

Ive torn my ACL and MDL and a bit of cartlidge damage thrown in. Its been three weeks and Im wearing a townsend brace to stumble around in. I saw a surgeon yesterday, he says he wont operate until i get some movement back i.e. 6 weeks- its pretty much locked straight. Has anyone come across this? What excersises help (obviously im seeing a physio)

Terry parkin
May 25, 2006 8:04 AM

Thankyou Kiki , yes I have a byer cryro ice machine but it is controlled by hand pumping .Its good if your watching t.v.and remember to pump it every 40mins or so.I get a little more time ie sleep if I use an ice pack. Is your machine electrical? Yes Cookie I also had a drain tube for three days that I had to empty . Maybe it should have been left in even longer?Also i`m on anti inflammitories Naproxen ec

Kiki
May 25, 2006 9:27 AM

Terry: yes, the iceman is electrical, so it will keep pumping cold water on its own. My husband is taking naproxen too. He didn't have the drain tube. The first week, his whole knee is swollen and also his ankle, but after that frist week, it's not too bad anymore. So he's pretty lucky. We iced the knee almost 24 hours per day during the first week, and then after that, we only ice and elevate at night. We are still doing it now. The doctor want us to do that for 3 months to control swelling.

Mom
May 26, 2006 4:16 PM

My son had acl using the patella 10 days ago. PT was started the day after surgery 3x a week. Staples came out of the knee 2 days ago. He seems to have recovered too quickly. Doctor took away the immobilizer brace this week. Seems to be having a problem steming from the nerve block which was left in for 4 days. Anyone else have problems from the nerve block??

jessica
May 27, 2006 8:45 PM

hey! i tore my right acl in a rugby game (i ran into a bunch of players and someone hit my quad from the front and my calf from the back and my knee went POP! and i went down). i tore my left pcl this time last year but didn't need surgery... but this time i went under the knife for my right acl. we did a patella graft on may 8th. i'm able to walk pretty normally now (granted, i SHOULD be wearing my brace), and each day the progress is TREMENDOUS. the first week was terrible, though - i couldn't sleep and had to wake up every three to four hours to take painkillers, and i also had to deal with cellulitis (a skin infection) around the surgical incision, which set me back a few days. in terms of PT, leg raises were AWFUL - the first two or three days they brought tears to my eyes - but they are SO important and i'm able to do them now without any problems. i'm off my crutches now and am wondering if anyone has tips for shrinking my arms? cos they're HUGE!!!

deb
June 1, 2006 12:46 AM

Had acl surgery today. so far so good... able to get upstairs to my bedroom and have been able to do heel slides and quad tighten exercises but not able to do quad leg lifts, its like myfoot is a lead ball down there. Had a pain block shot so maybe that is why? Read alot of the comments on this site before surgery that were kinda scary. I am hoping tomarrow doesn't bring any worse pain.

deb
June 1, 2006 12:46 AM

Had acl surgery today. so far so good... able to get upstairs to my bedroom and have been able to do heel slides and quad tighten exercises but not able to do quad leg lifts, its like myfoot is a lead ball down there. Had a pain block shot so maybe that is why? Read alot of the comments on this site before surgery that were kinda scary. I am hoping tomarrow doesn't bring any worse pain.

paul
June 1, 2006 9:22 PM

hello this is my 2nd acl surgery on my right knee. this time they had to take my hamstring from my left leg. This has caused my left leg to have pain on the chin plus I keep pulling my hamstring and it hurts like hell when it happens. i slipped on the stairs and now it just keeps happening so beware it s not as stong as u think. my acl(r leg) is getting better but i m having a problem getting it straight. anyways thanks for listening to my wine cheers

Gary Cunningham
June 2, 2006 1:57 PM

I hurt my knee May 27, 2006 playing in an alumni basketball game. It hurt, but it was nothing like tearing my achillies heal (5yrs ago). I finally got into the doctor on June 2 and he gave me the bad news. After reading the posts on the website I am not looking forward to rehab, but I want to get the show on the road so I can try to get as much done before school starts back up and I have to be coaching Junior High Softball. Wish me luck.

Michele
June 2, 2006 9:50 PM

Hey there. I had written a note on this site last December. My husband was hit by a car while riding his bicycle and tore both of his ACLs (right and left). In December he had the first surgery on his right leg. I was complaining on this site about how horrible his recovery was going. He had a terrible reaction and had to use a walker to get around. He was vomiting for about 5 days after the surgery, etc. He had the second surgery on his left leg this past Tuesday. His recovery in this case is day to December's night. He was getting around on his crutches the next morning checking his e-mail and futzing around the house. I think the big difference this time is that we are really managing his pain. He is taking Motrin and Vicodin regularly. And is doing great this first week. With the right leg the PT was pretty strenuous. It took about 2 months to get his leg to straighten from 35% to 20%. Then he and I took a trip to Amsterdam. Every day we walked around for 5-10 miles. We were only there for a week, but when we returned home and he saw the doctor his leg had improved an additional 15% in that one week! I highly recommend taking a break and treating yourself after the surgery and going to a nice flat country for a walking tour. In one week this relaxing vacation cured as much as 2 months of intensive PT.

Bolivariano NJ
June 4, 2006 9:02 PM

Hola, Had ACL reconstruction on May 17. Spent one terrible night in the hospital. My Dr. suggested I be close to the Morphine(pumped it once and got nauseated) for pain management( I don't recomend this, if you can go home) manage the pain in the comfort of your own home. I didn't fill the vicadin, Tylenol and Aleve held me over. I had an allograft(cadaver tissue) put in my Left knee, so i had on and off fevers (101.9 highest)for the first few days. An hour after surgery they set me up with a cpm machine which automatically bends your knee to a specified degree at fixed rate. It' an excellent machine. I've been doing it about 4 hrs/day and i've maxed the mchine's range of motion at 130 degrees. There isn't anyway i would've bent my knee having this brace on without the machine. (Highly recommend it if you insurance covrs it). Crutching around w/o pain and feeling good. I keep a cold ice pack on it constantly and am taking an over the counter Natural Anti-Inflammitory Liquid Drops (Zyflamend , got it at WholeFoods- taste terrible) Seems to be working well. BtW: I was really curious, so, i got an epideral for the surgery, and watched the screen with the Dr. while he did his thing. That sort of stuff usually freaks me out, but the anastesialogist ( and the Dr. was really cool and put me at ease to pick which way i wanted to do it. I'm glad i watched!

amber d.
June 5, 2006 10:18 PM

im only 14 now and i tore my ACL in january it was the worst pain i have ever felt. i am getting surgrey on it this summer the recovery is going to be hard work but i am a serious soccer player and really want to play again ive gone through all the facts details and works and therapy and understand everything .

amber d.
June 5, 2006 10:19 PM

im only 14 now and i tore my ACL in january it was the worst pain i have ever felt. i am getting surgrey on it this summer the recovery is going to be hard work but i am a serious soccer player and really want to play again ive gone through all the facts details and works and therapy and understand everything .

Kelly S
June 6, 2006 11:54 AM

Hi, I just recently had knee surgery this past thanksgiving break. I tore my ACL (along with my PCL, MCL, and Lateral Meniscus) playing indoor soccer. I'm pretty serious about the sport too, so when I did it I thought for sure I was done for. But after talking with several doctors and getting many opinions about the surgery I was ready for it. I had a graft from my patella tendon taken. I started PT 3 days after surgery and was on cruches for about 3 weeks. And when the physical therapists tell you to do something, do it! Trust me. All those stupid simple exercises that you don't think you need to do... YOU DO! I completed my PT 3 weeks ahead of schedule. 4 months after having the surgery (end of Feb.), I went snowboarding with my buddies and had a great time. Another month later my doctor said it was alright for me to gradually start introducing soccer back into my schedule. Today, 8 months later I'm completely back into the sport. Although I only feel like I am 90% back to my level of play, I am constantly training to try and strengthen my knee so that I can be back at my 100% level. But one ofthe most important things to do while trying to return to a sport after a surgery of an ACL, is to listen and to do whatever it is that your physical therapist tells you to do. Although they may tell you to do some exercises that you think does not even pertain to yourself, it is a very wise move to do it anyways, because they know exactly what they're doing.

LINDA
June 8, 2006 6:19 PM

TO; AMBER D I HAD TORN MY ACL IN JANUARY, I HAD MY SURGERY ON MARCH 15. I AM DOING GREAT, I AM ALSO 14 YRS, WELL ALMOST MY BDAY IS IN 2 WEEKS! I HAD A WONDERFUL SURGEON AND THERAPY, THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GOOD OR BAD RECOVERY. I AM ALSO A STRIKER ON MY SOCCER TEAM AND WILL RETURN AS SOON AS I FEEL READY.

Britt
June 9, 2006 9:15 AM

hey everyone! i also tore my ACL about 4 months ago playing soccer and decided to wait to get surgery. I got a brace to protect my knee becuase i am playing softball on it now. I dont have any problems with it and i am about 90 % with the brace. I did decide to get surgery at the end of summer so i will be back to 100 % next softball season. i am looking forward to the surgery and cant wait to recover!

Sara
June 9, 2006 12:59 PM

I just had acl and mcl surgery two weeks ago. I was wondering if anyone felt very depressed/sad at this point two to three weeks after the surgery?? It must be normal but need to know there are others out there that may have been emotional a wreck. Thanks, Sara

Sara
June 9, 2006 1:02 PM

I just had my acl and mcl surgery two weeks ago and was wondering if anyone had the feelings like I am having of sad and depressed after this surgery?? I am sure it most be some what normal but I hate feeling this way??

Carollynne
June 10, 2006 7:15 AM

Sara, It can happen after surgery to feel sad and depressed. I had my acl reconstruction on may 5th and have not felt that way, but I did have a scope done on the same knee in 2001 and was quite depressed maybe two weeks later. I wasn't necessarily in the best of situations, the scope had gone wrong, etc...etc...It eventually passed after another two weeks, but it was very helpful to find a sympathetic ear to talk to. Surgery is exhausting, and I don't know all of the circumstances in your life right now, but it may help if you found someone to talk to about this. Good luck C.

Ann Marie
June 10, 2006 7:38 PM

I had acl reconstruction surgery about four weeks ago. I was just wondering if someone could help me out. I was on the phone the other day with one of my friends, and I was pacing back and forth while talking to her. But when I went to turn around one time, I planted my foot and felt/heard a mild crackling sensation. I am somewhat of a hypochondriac, and I was just wondering if anyone else has had that happene too. I'm probably fine, but I just want to make sure I didn't partially tear it again or anything. It didn't really hurt, so I don't know. If anyone has some insight, that would be great. Thanks.

Jo
June 11, 2006 5:17 PM

Hi Ann Marie, Pops are common, you can consult with your PT or OS to confirm. I have had this happen many times and wonder if all is well or not. I dont think you should be too concerned about it. J

Shawn
June 12, 2006 6:54 AM

I had an ACL re construction and meniscus surgery/repair on March 5th (was suppose to be March 20th but knee buckled out on March 4th and could not longer pop back in myself/jammed). I had arthroscopic done in June 05 just before my ACL re construction. I am currently 3 months a few days in....still have a limp to my walk...I go to physio 2/week, gym 2-3 times a week but only bicycle (20 minutes), upper body strenght and light leg press (for legs)...I still feel somewhat of a sharp/type burning sensation (inner part of my knee where i suspect my meniscus was torn)...I can bend my knee 110-120 degrees but try to keep within 90 degrees all the time. I think my progression is somewhat slow...but then again the specialist said 6-9 months recovery because the combo (ACL & Meniscus). I am 31 years old going on 32 in a month. I am physically fit, played lots of soccer and hockey. I am doubting the surgery at times thinking it may not be succesfull (even though only half way to recovery). Anyways, if you had this surgery and had the same experience I currently have, let me know....Just curious if you feel the same as I do after 3 months and a few days. I would love to play soccer again but some say with the age and the degree of injury, could be dangereous for re injuring my leg...Hockey, I think will be fine as just recreational (no contact)...I do work as a technician (often climbing poles-hard on knees, work on knees often etc..) and would like to know from someone which had experience to let me know what I should expect.... I used crutches 6 weeks, walked with a cane 2 weeks...limping since...feel good though..from day 1, never had pain. what do you think ?

Shawn
June 12, 2006 7:59 AM

adding more notes...forgot...I just wanted to add that when I tore my ACL, I never went to see the doctor right away....We (myself and the orthopedic surgeon) think it was sport related but 3-4 years ago..(he confirmed the tear of my ACL was old when doing 1st arthroscopic-not recent tear) .I am pretty sure which impact it was (soccer impact) but never went to see a doc at the time..swelled bad but eventually went away with time...often when playing soccer afterwards...it would swell more and more and more with years....but within the last year or so before my arthroscopic (June 2005) and re construction of ACL (March 06), my knee would give out (buckle)...then I would have to snap it back to it's place...not really painfull but difficult as never knew how far to push on it...then March 4th came as described in first message, then could not put it back to its place by myself...that's when the orthopedic surgeon repaired earlier than expected....

Sarah Smith
June 12, 2006 5:37 PM

Hi All, I'm in my 40's and just had ACL/meniscus reconstruction and cleaning up 3 days ago. The Dr. used my patellor tendon for the ACL recon. I'm writing to encourage us "oldies" to go ahead and get the surgery done while we are still "young". I was a bit nervous going into surgery after reading this site and took people's advice about prepping. Went shopping, laundry, hair cut, and basically did as much stuff around the house and at work as possible since I wasn't sure how long or how bad things would be. However, I am writing to reassure you that things worked out ok. and I hope they will for you also. I stayed the night at the hospital. Ok, here's a synopsis. First, after being dropped off, I found the day surgery dept. and waited with an IV for over an hour. Then, since the delay was so long, they wheeled me to post-op in order to close the pre-op room and move nurses around. Be prepared with a book/music/ game... Finally, about four people surrounded me, double-checked which leg and knocked me out with something in the IV. That was 2:30ish. I didn't wake up until 6:30ish. I was wheeled up to a room at 7:30ish. not in pain, just a bit whoozy. My leg was only sore to move it, but I found that if I did a quad-set before trying to move it, it didn't hurt too much. Otherwise, there is too much pain on the patellar tendon. Anyway, those PT exercises have paid off. At around 11:30, I had to go to the bathroom, and the night nurse unhooked the IV and I crutched over. Not too bad, or not any worse than the last 3 injuries. This operation allows partial weight-bearing afterwards and I was quite pleased about the mobility. The only problem was a bit of nauea from the anestheia. My Dr. left lots of med options including a morphine pump to use once the novacaine wore off. I only used it to help sleep. Fortunately, not too much pain. The knee is still locked down, and is only to be unlocked for heel-slides and other PT stuff. My flexibility isn't great, the meniscus side still is sore and has been for the last two months since the last injury. The patellar region is still sore to touch and if I do any movt. with out setting the quad first it hurts. There is an overall soreness but no stabbing pain and I can easily walk without crutches, but use them for stability and since the doc. has recommended it. I am still exhausted and haven't driven yet. I took a Vicodan to help sleep last night and have just been using Ibuprofen today. I expect a long road to full-recovery but am glad to be ambulatory and somewhat pain-free after so much rough surgery. Here's hoping that your recovery goes smoothly. I'll try to post if anything unusual happens. Thank you to all who have shared their experiences on this site and helped me to be better prepared.

Glyn Moon
June 13, 2006 10:55 AM

Hi I'm a 38 year old man from wales, uk. I tore my meniscus and tore my ACL whilst playing rugby. I had surgery 5 weeks ago and had an artificial ligament grafted. Didn't feel any pain after the op (very funky from the painkillers), but the next day the pain was horrendous. If you asked me then whether I wanted to play rugby ever again, the answer would be a resounding NO, but time is a healer - combined with intensive physio (do the exercises they tell you to do!). I must say I feel absolutley fabulous - no pain whatsoever - I am even (with the physios say so) rowing, jogging and cycling again - in the gym of course. I guess I must be very lucky, reading some of the posts, my heart goes out to you, it really does. My one bit of advice however, is treat your rehab as a marathon not a sprint. Good luck everyone!

Jennifer
June 13, 2006 12:14 PM

Hi there - I tore my ACL, lateral meniscus and chipped a bone in my knee back in Dec. doing gymnastics. I had meniscus surgery in Dec. & ACL surgery in Feb. so I'm 4 months out. This is to Sara who was wondering if anyone else was depressed after the surgery - I definitely was. I think for me it was because the pain was much, much worse than I had anticipated. I was taking percocet but it might as well have been candy because I barely noticed any effects at all. The pain was intense and continuous - I was even waking up 4-5 times a night for two weeks straight until it finally started to feel better. What really pulled me out of the depression was a combination of the pain starting to subside and the start of PT. PT was a lifesaver for me. I think once I understood that was able to control my recovery by doing the exercises and stretches instead of being completely at the mercy of the pain, the depression went away. Good luck with everything! Remember, the harder you work, the faster you'll recover!

Bryan
June 13, 2006 1:30 PM

I tore my ACL playing soccer in 2003. I was playing defense and trying to prevent a guy from getting past me. I moved to the right, planting my foot (with cleats on), and then quickly shifted and started moving to the left. As I twisted, my right knee collapsed inward and I heard a pop. I had it diagnosed via MRI but decided to put off surgery until I had recovered and more importantly until I had researched which technique to use and which doctor to have do it. I go to school at Indiana University, which has one of the best soccer teams in the country, so I asked the head trainer which surgeon he'd recommend. He told me Greg Fox. However, school and work kept me busy and I never quite got around to making an appointment. I knew it would suck up a lot of time and didn't look forward to being injured, when I could walk around, bike around, even go for jogs, just fine, even with the broken ACL. Finally a month ago I decided I had waited long enough (3 years), so I made an appointment. Dr. Fox recommended the hamstring graft. The patellar graft, he said, was good if you needed to return to sports as soon as possible -- for instance, a college or professional athlete. Hamstring grafts, however, turned out to be just as strong, but they took longer to heal. He told me 12 weeks until I'd be able to go running. However, the benefit was less knee pain down the road. The patellar ligament is used so much that cutting it causes a lot of knee pain. So I followed his advice and used the hamstring. I just had it done last Wednesday. It's now Monday, and I'm still bedridden. The pain was bad the day after, but then it eased up. However, a new type of pain, in my shins, has started over the last few days, that makes me not want to walk around at all, even on crutches. It doesn't hurt when I'm lying down, but when I get up and put my leg down, the blood pressure makes my shin really hurt (in the skin). The physical therapist told me it's probably blood under the skin and I should apply heat compresses to it, so I'm going to try that. As soon as the pain subsides, I'm going to start doing physical therapy on my own, just stretching and and walking and getting full mobility back. I did this after my initial ACL injury back in 2003 and am looking forward to doing it again, but this time with the difference that I'm recovering to 100%, not just 50%. I finally decided to have the surgery after not being sure for years because I noticed that I wasn't as active as I used to be. I used to love running, and I haven't really run regularly in years, and I miss it. Without the surgery, I wouldn't trust my knee on a long-distance backpacking trip, I couldn't even swim breaststroke (because of the side to side kick)... lots of little things I could no longer do. So I'm bedridden now, but I'm looking forward to being able to do all these things again.

Nicole C.
June 15, 2006 8:24 AM

I am 6 weeks post ACL reconstructive surgery. I tore mine while jumping on one of those giant trampolines. Silly way to do it, huh? The surgery itself went fine, I went in on a Friday morning and went home that afternoon. I was knocked out and had a nerve block to the entire lower half of my right leg. On the way into my house, my foot was dragging on the ground, and I didn't even know it! By Saturday night the nerve block wore off, and the pain was horrific. It felt like I was awake and I was being operated on! After that point, I was no longer able to get up and go to the bathroom. I would reccomend getting a bedpan. My surgeon didn't start me on PT till about a week after the surgery. (some people go right away) It is going well, I can now do all my excercises, and I am just now starting to walk without any crutches. My bigest worrry is if everything is "normal." I still have some pain in my knee. I am getting married this October, so I hope I can make it down the aisle! Good luck to everyone out there who had this done, and that is thinking of getting it done!

Shawn
June 15, 2006 4:59 PM

This question is for Brian.....did you have 2 surgeries? One in 2003 and 2006? If so,why?

Dan
June 16, 2006 5:15 AM

Hi Everyone, I go under the knife for the 2nd time in 2 months on Monday. The first surgery was a torn lateral meniscus, guess the doctor didn't look around when inside, swelling didn't go away and the pain got worse over weeks. Went for MRI showed torn acl. needless to say a diffrent doctor is handling this one. Many thanks to all of you for your insite. Not looking forward to the pain or another 5 months off work.

Javier
June 16, 2006 3:55 PM

Hello Everyoone!! I just had my surgery 4 days ago. I torn my ACL while snowboarding,not doing anything crazy just an easy green run...jeez!! Being in Whistler, this is pretty common here and the doctor I had (J.P Mcconkey) is one of the best in North America, he even treated the Olympic Gold medallist for the same injury, he was the one who recommended this surgeon. Anyway, I went to sleep, I woke up and no pain at all. When I when home I had a litle bit of nausea but that was it. I've been home for the last 4 days and now Im walking pretty comfortable with my crutches. Im not sure why I havent feel that much pain...is it normal??...Ive been moving my leg as much as I can and I hope to start my PT next week.... Feel free to ctc myself if you have any questions or if you are bored on your bed or couch and want to chat.. javicepeda2002@hotmail.com.. Good luck everyone!!

Troy Lloyd
June 16, 2006 4:14 PM

I completely tore both acl and meniscus damage of knees 1 1/2 years ago. I am finally going to have surgery July 6th. I had to wait because I got a blood clot when I had my accident (hyperextended both knees on motorcycle accident). Anyway this must be one of the worst injuries one could have with the rehab time. My doctor said I can't even put weight on my knee for 6 weeks after surgery, but I will be doing range of motion rehab excersises in pt. He said I won't even be able to start walking for about 8 weeks. How does a person go back to work? I wanted to have my other knee operated on in November so I will not have to pay another $1500 deductible, but sounds out of the question??? I have heard some people getting a device which helps move the knee up and down automatically. Also an ice pack which delivers cold fluid automatically. Has anyone had this after surgery? Feel free to email me at lloydfive@sbcglobal.net

Javier
June 17, 2006 10:19 AM

To Troy... Brother, dont get discourged for what people say...everyone has a different side of the story...My opinion is wait and see ....every person recovers in a differetn way. My buddy had that CPM machine and it look it works well, I got the cryocuff (thermo with a hose commected to a knee brace)...I guess is good...your knee does not get wet and it gives you the freedom of move wherever you want with it. Good luck with that surgery...!! JC

LynnK
June 19, 2006 2:58 PM

I tore my ACL, with minor meniscal involvement, April 17. I was playing soccer with some kids (and having so much fun, too!). My surgery was June 7. I have had excellent results so far, walking with brace but without crutches after one week, and very minimal pain. I credit my surgeon (Scott Hormel in Seattle) PLUS: CPM machine from day one, 6-8 hours per day. It keeps your leg from stiffening up, and has been excellent for maintaining range of motion. I have not had any (or much) pain straightening and flexing my leg. Can't recommend the CPM enough. I believe it made a big difference. I did not have the cryocuff, although it sounded interesting. My Dr said you have to be careful, especially right after surgery because if you cannot feel your leg, you can seriously freeze it and do damage. To prevent swelling, I had my leg elevated above my heart as much as possible the first four days - usually 10 hours a day. (Yes, that's a lot of time lying on the couch.) I also had PT twice BEFORE surgery. For me this also made a big difference. It got all the supporting muscles in the best possible shape, so they did not have to recover after surgery. I noticed a LOT of pain and range-of-motion improvement before surgery. When I went into surgery I was walking normally and functioning at 60-70%. I think that contributed to a quick recovery. My DR gave my anti-nausea meds (hydroxyzine) for right after surgery and while taking pain meds (oxycod w/ apap - whatever that is - it caused nausea, itching, restless sleep - pretty awful stuff actually). The hydroxyzine helped a lot. Troy, I would look for a second opinion about your knees. Everyone is different, so you could have some special issues, but I am walking after one week, and other posters have also noted they're walking and working after short amounts of time. My Dr said I could bear weight "as tolerated" from day 2 after surgery. Don't know your options, but getting a second opinion can't hurt. Good luck to everybody. It sounds like there are lots of different reactions to this surgery. I think I got lucky, my injury somehow didn't seem too bad, and I have an excellent Dr and PT. I've been doing my part too, taking it easy and doing my PT. Still, it could have been a lot worse.

Luke Peach
June 21, 2006 3:07 AM

I had a operation on my ACL 5 months ago, ive just started sports again but my knee gets very tired and still swells u

Kenny
June 21, 2006 6:34 AM

I am about 2 months out of ACL surgery and I can't straighten my leg yet. Just wondering how long it took some of you to completely straighten your legs?

kenny t
June 22, 2006 10:44 PM

i just had my acl repairedtoday with a allograft what are others saying about this vs autograft and when can i stand on my own? i popped it during a ju jit su match but i dont think it matters how it tore my typing is bad due tlo all the drugs that i am tahnkfull for we all know this .........thanks for any info

leo
June 24, 2006 5:01 PM

i am two and a half months out of acl surgery (patellar tendon graft). prior to surgery my doctor recommended as much pt as i could stand. i did six weeks before surgery and i highly recommend it to anyone considering this surgery. concentrate on building the quadricep muscle as much as possible. it did wonders to prepare my knee for the surgery and the difficult first week after surgery. after only three months i feel that i am about 75% recovered. i have minor tendonitis in the knee but otherwise i am ready to go again.

t
June 27, 2006 7:46 PM

I had surgery less than two weeks after I tore my ACL. They say for every hour you are "under," thats how many months it takes to get the anesthesia out of your system. On that note I did not want to put anymore drugs in my body. In the first four days I tried to stay away from the Vikidin,(only having three!). I used other homeopathic medicines such as arnica. This helped with the swelling a lot. Within six days I was out of my crutches, and walking around in my surgery brace. I am a competative soccer player and although I do have defined muscles, did pre-hab, and was walking around after six days, I still had muscle atrophy. I worked hard at physical therapy. Two and a half weeks after surgery I got a sports brace. I was running 6 weeks after surgery. It is not quite four months and I am back playing competative soccer. All doctors, therapists, and coaches cleared me to play! If you work hard, you will get back in no time too!

adrian
June 27, 2006 7:57 PM

I tore my ACL in March 2006 during track. We were doing hurdles outside and the ground was wet since it was still raining. As I landed, i felt my knee twist out of place and I came down full force. I heard a pop but I did not think that I injured anything. The pain was quite minor so I got up and continued running, actually jogging - I found running quite impossible a reason I did not know at that point. About 1 hour later I had a severe pain walking up the stairs to my next class and I went to the nurse to call for home. No one picked up so I had to take a taxi to my car and walk across the parking lot, which sucked... I got an x-ray the very same day but it did not show any damage to my knee but later the MRI report showed that the MCL, PCL, ACL, medial and lateral meniscus were all torn/damaged. I had surgery on June 15th and my surgeon is the same one for the Chicago Bears so I know that he was competent. It is June 27th and I had my sutures taken out yesterday. The scars arent too bad but there is still some bruising on the right side of my left knee (probably from the meniscus). The procedure that was done was the patellar tendon graft and arthroscopy for the meniscus. The recovery period wasn't bad with the painkillers I was given. The first few days I took 4 oxycontin and about 8 norco daily (190 lbs, 6'1 male). I discontinued norco however since it made me very itchy and was later prescribed darvocet with which I did not experience any negative side effects. I also had a feverish stage on the second and third day ranging from 99-100 degrees (probably from anesthesia), however this did not seem to be a concern to the surgeon or the pharmacist. I am at 120 degrees on my CPM and I am walking with 1 crutch now. I do exercises about twice a day mostly to strengthen my quadriceps. The surgery and recovery wasn't that bad except that I will be unable to return to any sports for a while. Anyone have a similar experience? Please email TranceSpottingPL@Yahoo.com or post here - I am most curious to see how people's recoveries went with the procedure.

Chia PY
June 28, 2006 9:37 PM

I tore my left knee ACL in 2001 but delayed surgery till recently. Suffice to say i didn't think i needed it until it gave way suddenly one day. Had my surgery done on the 20th June 06 (Tuesday) at Mt Alvernia (Singapore). Checked in at 10am where the staff took done my particulars and wheeled me to a room for blood and urine test. Saw my room at about 11am and was prep for surgery by the nurse. Op started at abt 2pm. Was on GA so the next thing i remembered was waking up to an aching pain on my knee and my whole body freezing with cold..Teeth chattering. Funny but didn't feel nausea as I was told by others (?) Spend 2 nights in the hospital as i was put on antibiotic drip and drain (blood) on the op knee. Got out on Thursday with my left leg, up to the toes still numb. There was no way I could use it at all. Rested at home with the leg elevated as much as possible. On Arcoxia (swelling), Paceco (painkiller) and cefadroxil (keep infection at bay) Say the doctor the following Monday and was told to do leg risers and hold for count of 8 every morning, afternoon and night. It's being about 1 week plus now and I think i am ready to put weight on my left leg. Being trying to take steps with my Don Joy brace and without the crutches. Really hoping to walk by next week but will be putting off any sports for 9 months. That's the plan

Denise
July 3, 2006 7:59 AM

I am a 31-yr old former college soccer player, still play competitively and coach. Was playing indoor back in Feb. and felt/heard a pop when changing directions. Like many athletes, I did not go to the Dr. and self-diagnosed a "sprained knee." I had never taken any time off playing soccer in 28 years, so I thought it was my body's way of telling me it needed a break. I focused on walking, lifting and light jogging every day for about 2 months. Outdoor soccer started in April and of course I went out to play. I took it easy and was running OK, even able to kick normally with my right foot. It is the right knee that is injured. BUT, about 20 minutes into the game, I tried to pick up the pace and felt a collapse. Then I tried to change directions and it really collapsed. I finally left the field, iced, and felt FINE walking to my car! Took the dog for a walk that night and then went to buy a knee brace from CVS. Played the next day with 2 knee braces on and I was about 50%, still unable to sprint, jump, change directions, or kick with the left foot (since that required planting on the right). After 2 weeks of playing like this, I finally went to the Dr at the protests of my teammates and family. Some of them are PTs and Drs and they had checked me out and told me "all major ligaments" were in tact. So, I figured I would go to the doc, maybe get fitted for a brace, and move on with my life. I had no history of knee troubles nor any serious injuries in all my years of soccer. The Dr. told me that particularly with athletes, it is nearly impossible to tell an ACL tear without an MRI. This is because the muscles around the knee are so developed and so all of my walking and running had been supported only by muscle. Only in those very rigorous activities was I attempting to engage the ACL. I have seen so many soccer players go down with this injury, I figured no way was that what I had! I even went into the MRI in high heels (coming from work) and was embarrassed to be there at all! Well, the diagnosis was nearly immediate after the MRI, complete tear of the ACL. I was in shock and denial for about a week, then researched and researched. Found a great doc locally at the Cleveland Clinic, and scheduled the surgery for June 12. Not by accident, my recovery time has been in conjunction with the World Cup. I am 3 weeks today from ACL replacement surgery (hamstring replacement). I am today not using the crutches and drove for the first time in 3 weeks. Range of Motion is 120 and I have had full extension since 1 week out of surgery. The actual surgery itself seemed very easy, minimal pain and no nausea. I was sent home a few hours later with crutches, weight bearing as tolerated. I've been very diligent in my home exercises and icing as much as possible. For the first 72 hours, I only moved to go to the bathroom and had the constant ice and pressure from something called the "Ice Man." Really its just a cooler with a hoseline to something like an aircast (but filled with ice water) that is around the knee. I have never had a brace on and don't think I will ever need one. The dr says that with only an ACL replacement, a brace is really the doctor's decision. He prefers the body not rely on it so soon after surgery. One thing that they were very careful to tell me after surgery was to only prop your leg up under the heel. This lets gravity essentially force your leg to completely extend. It was definitely uncomfortable and even painful at times, but at least a few minutes every hour, and then gradually longer. I can't wait to walk the dog, run, coach, and eventually play soccer again. I definitely think that strength prior to surgery helps infinitely. I had no idea that I was helping my recovery through all the walking I was doing after the initial tear. I think so much of recovery is mental, it was amazing to me how much more my knee hurt once I finally got a proper diagnosis! I wish all the knee surgery patients out there the best. This was a very helpful site to me, both prior to and since surgery! Good luck! I say don't baby yourself, but don't push it too much either. Listen to the docs and PTs... they really only want to see you succeed!

Kit
July 5, 2006 8:57 AM

I have just been diagnosed with an ACL failure needing full replacement. I have had knee surgery before (same knee but the medial collateral ligament....this is obviously my unlucky leg), so am OK with the rehab. My concern is what extra damage I am doing to the knee whilst carrying this injury ? I have had the injury since last november and my surgery cannot take place till this coming October. Has anyone got any advice ? Also, if I work hard on the fitness my lower body prior to surgery does it help recovery or does it just cause more damage ??? I gues its a question of what exercise you do. Any advice would be much appreciated !

Clint
July 6, 2006 9:19 AM

I had surgery in late March of 2006 to replace my ACL (cadaver), repair a meniscus tear, clean up some arthritic growth, and pick chondroplasty (where they drill holes in the bone to allow marrow to leak out into the joint and hopefully regrow some cartilage). All of this was the result of 20 years without an ACL in my right knee (and possibly in my left - but that surgery will have to wait until next year). According to my surgeon, I probably tore it as a teenager (early 80's) and never had it diagnosed correctly. Since that time I've played a myriad of sports, doing more and more damage to the knee (torn meniscus, increased wear on the joint) until I finally decided early this year to have someone look at it again (middle age creeps up on you). Recovery has gone well (just over 3 months into it) although I'm still a couple of months away from racquetball. The best thing I did was get my legs in great shape prior to the surgery. Postsurgical muscle atrophy in my upper leg is significantly reduced, although there is still a noticeable difference in my right and left quadriceps. The only problem I'm having now is getting my leg to completely straighten when I walk (probably some scar tissue coupled with muscle memory loss), but I hope to work through this within a few weeks.

Jeff
July 6, 2006 10:35 AM

I Tore my ACL on April 22, 2006 playing rugby, Had surgery on June, 6th. Seeing I'm 26 I decided to use my patella tendon, the surgery took about 4hrs, I had allot of scar tissue in my knee so it took a little longer than usual. Needless to say 5 days out I was walking with an Tru Fit Athletic Brace and within 10 days I was using weights on the Injured left knee @ PT. My Therapist said I was doing things 1 week out of surgery that most people can't do till 4-5 weeks out. I agree with Denise (writer above) this surgery is no fun but the recovery is very much mental and how hard you work to get better. I'm now 4 weeks out of surgery and have a 120 degree bend back in my knee, riding bikes, and increasing my workout everytime @ PT. My goal is to be able to play Flag Football by Mid Sept. and Run by early August. I'm a New Englander so I look at Rodney Harrison of the NE Patriots as motivation... he tore 3 ligaments including ACL in his knee last season at age 34 and he'll be back this year playing for the Pats. Good luck to all those that are about to or already have had the surgery... never give up on what you want to achieve and work harder than ever to get back to your old self!

Marty
July 7, 2006 5:55 AM

I initially damaged my knee 18 years ago and had an arthroscopy procedure. At the time I was told I had a partially torn ACL and medial meniscus damage. Had the meniscus repaired at the time and rehabbed the knee. I have continued to be active in soccer, flag football, and martial arts. However in March I felt the ACL tear completely, while working out. I knew immediately what had happened. A doctor visit and subsequent MRI confirmed my fears. Additionally the doctor advised me of lesions in the articular cartilage, the dreaded beginning of arthritis. Had the ACL reconstruction and Chondroplasty performed on May 9th. It is now 8 weeks since the surgery. Overall the ACL reconstruction went great, PT has been good, and strength and size is coming back to the leg. The downside is that the Chondroplasty, which was to treat the arthritis, has slowed me down considerably. I was unable to walk for the first four weeks, and am still struggling with pain while walking. My goal is to be back into martial arts classes by the beginning of January. My doctor has advised me against even considering going back before that time.

Carollynne
July 7, 2006 9:35 AM

Kit, It is a good idea to get your leg as strong as possible prior to surgery. I suggest you consult with a physiotherapist as soon as possible, or a kinesiologist. They will prescribe some exercises. It makes a huge difference in recovery when your leg is stronger. As for the damage, again you should ask the doctor or the pt. I waited 5 years between tear and repair and there was no damage to the knee. Then again, I was very conservative about what I would do with it and participated in activities that had very little impact on the knee. You probably won't suffer much damage until the surgery, unless you participate in pivoting sports without your brace, or your knee buckles (this can happen even when walking) and you tear your meniscus or damage other structures. Be careful and good luck. C.

cheryl
July 8, 2006 10:03 AM

My daughter plays select soccer in N. Texas and tore her ACL one week before her 13th birthday in a tournament. Since she was so young we were worried whether or not she could even have the reconstruction surgery. Her OS was able to tell that her growth plates were closed so she had the reconstruction done using her pateller tendon on 11/29/05. We followed the OS's and PT's protocal to the "T" and she worked hard with a Sports Performance/Injury Prevention Trainer 3 days a week from 8 weeks post op to the present. The trainer also followed ACL protocal and she was never rushed to advance to the next level of training until she was given the OK by her OS. Soccer specific skills were added gradually and she began the final phase of sprinting and cutting at 24 weeks. She was cleared to play in a tournament at 26 weeks and played 15 minutes (conservative for her) of each half. It was very nerve wracking for us as parents to watch the first games but she did well, and with each game her confidence built and she began to look like her old self. The tournament was her last of the season, and now she is at 32 weeks post op, working out 4 days a week and feels she will be completely ready when practice resumes 8/1/06. She will be 9 months post op by then and we are hoping for a successful season for her. It seems people are always ready to tell us horror stories of retorn ACL's and other knee injuries that happen after "successful" ACL surgeries. Are there any "success" stories out there of athletes who have resumed the sports they love, at the level they were before surgery, without any further injury? If so, we would love the confidence boost right now--especially since (we hope) she has many years of soccer ahead of her.

kim
July 9, 2006 8:39 AM

My daughter is 13 & tore her acl one June 3rd 2006 in a soccer tournament. She is scheduled for surgery tomorrow. She is going into her freshman year in HS & has made both the basketball team & soccer team. Everyone seems to want to tell her a "horror" story about this surgery & things like her knee will never be the same, etc. She really needs some encouraging words from some young athletes who are going through what she is about to go through, and some success stories from those who have aready been through it. I think this site will help her & (mom too :) thanks!!

summer
July 9, 2006 5:35 PM

YES MY NAME IS SUMMER AND I TORE MY ACL MCL AND MENISCUS PLAYING SOFTBALL WHEN I WAS CATCHING. YES. I AM 16 YEARS OLD. AND I TORE IT WHEN I WAS 15. I HAD SURGERY ON IT. AND I WAS REALLY MAD BECAUSE I COULDN'T PLAY SUMMER SOFTBALL THAT MAY WHEN I HAD SURGERY. NOW IM PLAYING SUMMER SOFTBALL A YEAR LATER AND IT STILL GETS IN PAIN SOMETIMES. BUT I FEEL I CANT GIVE 100% ON THE FIELD LIKE I WANT TO. BECAUSE I WANT TO PLAY COLLEGE SOFTBALL. AND MY KNEE IS KINDOF IN THE WAY. I WANT TO STRENGTHEN IT! SERIOUSLY. BUT I HAVE NO CONTROL ON THAT EXCEPT ASKIND MY GRANDMA AND GRANDPA FOR A WEIGHT BENCH. I WANT A LEG PRESS. I THINK IM GANNA GET A WEIGHT BENCH WITH A LEG EXTENSION ON IT. FOR MY BIRTHDAY.

Nicola
July 9, 2006 8:53 PM

Helloo! Severed my ACL and tore my miniscus in January 2005 skiing but didn't know until February 2006 the extent of the damage I had caused. Found out when it "popped" again playing a drunken game of volley ball at 1am in the morning which was 2 weeks before I was due to fly to Chamonix to ski. Anyhoo, had the reconstruction surgery using a graft from my hamstring, all went well except I have been suffering quite badly with a sharp spasm like pain in my left buttock. Had another scope done last week to scrape behind the patella and fix another tear in the miniscus but the pain in my bum (no pun intended) is still there. Has anyone else had a hamstring graft and suffering similar accute pains in their bums? Please let me know as my surgeon has not seen it before.

Bobby
July 10, 2006 11:57 AM

My name is Bobby and I last posted on the site on April 18, 2006 1:38 PM Hello all, Just wanted to fill everyone in on some recovery stories. I have been POST surgery for ALMOST 4 months. It is getting better and better. I still have little feeling on the outside of my knee. I have regained TOTAL range and I am also back to running 3-4 miles a day. The running is not all pain free but the days that I do not run I go to the GYM and lift with the leg. Extensions, leg press, squats, and calf raises are what take up a lot of the time. Just trying to get the leg as strong as possible. I would say that it is about 75% of its total strength. There is sometimes pain and aches but the Dr. said that this is normal. As long as I can do what I was used to. Doctors said I would not run for 4-5 months. Ha-ha. Showed them wrong. All it takes is a good PRE SURGERY workout routine to get the leg strong and also post surgery therapy habit. REHAB REHAB REHAB.

david r
July 12, 2006 7:11 AM

I thought I should quit playing soccer when I hit forty but wasnt ready to slow down quite yet. Unfortunately someone else had other ideas. Following a pretty bad tackle from the side I heard my knee pop. Even though I could walk on my leg almost immediately I knew I had done something pretty serious. After I had an MRI I was informed that I had a complete tear in my MCL and a partial tear in my ACL. I had to wear a brace on my leg for 8 weeks to enable the MCL to heal then had to have my ACL replaced. The surgery went well, then I underwent fairly intensive physical therapy at home and with a physical therapist. While this was very painful I just kept at it, following my surgeon's advice and my therapists advice. I was forewarned by a number of people before by surgery, that my recovery time was dependent upon the time and effort I put into my physical therapy. I have to say that I was very diligent but it still took a long time to recover. I think it was about 9 months before I was able to do whatever I want and about a year before I consider myself 100%. Its all about the work you put in after surgery as far as I am concern.

Juan
July 13, 2006 7:25 AM

Hi, I had surgery to reconstruct my acl, it been 4 months and the knee is about 80% i can sprint, but yesterday I was playing tuch football and while turning I injured it again. So for those like me trying to recover fast to play sports, rest the knee alot, and do alot of weight lifting and jogging.

Nav
July 13, 2006 4:47 PM

Hi my name is nav, I have been playing competitive basketball since I was in elementary school. I was at college playing a pick up game, and i jumped to block a pass, and my left foot twisted and all my wieght came down on my knee, it was brutal and it took me months to figure out it was an acl. At first i just didnt want to belive it was more then a sprain after seeing a specialist it was confirmed. My acl was totally ruptured my mcl was recovering from a sprain, and my meniscus had a thin tear. I havent done my surgery yet, and im waiting to set a date. Reading these web sites are helping me get in there and do it. The loss of your knee to an active person is like the end of the world, knowing you cant run and jump and compete how you want to. Hope everyone recovers well, and nice reading other logs about the injury.

Matt
July 14, 2006 1:21 AM

HI, I tore my ACL playing soccer at the start of the season. From what i remember, i partly tore it at the start of the game (not knowing at the time, thinking it was only a small muscle strain) and then later on in the second half I went to step off my left leg and collapsed. I'm two weeks post-surgery now, getting around on one crutch and just training my leg to walk again. Sleeping is probably the most difficult for me at the moment, being careful not to injur the site. Thanks for the tips about the effort needed to put into rehabilition, deffinately going to work hard to get back to 100%. All i get told is to take my time, not to rush things or i'll be back to where i started. sounds like good advice to me.

Keith
July 14, 2006 10:00 AM

Great site - I had a grade 3 tear to my ACL, MCL, and meniscus on June 9 06 ( ironic that it was world cup opening day match) while playing indoor soccer. It was quickly diagnosed via MRI and as I wanted to start recovery I had surgery June 23 2006. The ACL was replaced with my patellar tendon, the MCL was severly damaged and sewn, and the meniscus was trimmed. I am from Cincinnati, so this type injury is referred too as the Carson Palmer (Cincinnati Bengals quarterback). I am 44 and want to resume activety as soon as possbile, much like david r from july 12 post. But if Carson with all his trainers and equipment will take 8-12 months I know to be patient. I am non-weight bearing and on crutches for six weeks - but luckily the pain has been minimal. I have been doing the PT exactly as prescribed and feel I could move on, but I think the MCL damage was extensive so the doc is being cautious. Much like what everyone else has said rest, ice, compress, elevate and following PT directions are helping me the most. I will check back in with progress after I see my doc on August 03, 06.

Johnny Bear
July 15, 2006 7:39 PM

I'm 6 months post ACL repair by patellar allograft and a partial remaoval of a damaged medial meniscus to my right knee which is my "dominant" knee I can do a full one legged squat to a full flexion(i.e. almost to the ground) and get back up on my left knee. I can only get to about 80, perhaps 70 degrees flexion on my operated knee when I try a one legged squat. Am I expecting too much too soon? Will my right knee ever be stronger than my left knee? Will I eventually be able to do a full flexion one legged squat on my operated knee? I'm a 48 years old male and very active in sports especially snow skiing(that's how I tore it!) and mountain biking.

Hayato
July 16, 2006 10:14 AM

Hey there, I was in a motorcycle accident this past thursday night. with fractures in my occipital bone (not too bad, wore a helmet), my knee took most of the fall. i tore my ACL and PCL. i'm currently in a leg brace, surgery will be within a week. i love to move around, anyone know if this is a bad idea before surgery? looking to get back on a motorcycle and jog soon. spirits are kept high. godspeed everyone.

Ali
July 16, 2006 9:07 PM

Pretty good site. I tore my ACL and Lateral Meniscus doing Martial Arts in December 2004. The day after the injury I went to the doctor, and it was dismissed as a knee sprain. However, I had a trip that day which involved about 5 miles of walking, and I didn't obey the doc's orders to stay off it. In May 2005, it was diagnosed, so I started Physical Therapy to get back to where I was without a surgery. College started, and I never really completed the PT regimen. May 2006, I got arthroscopic surgery to repair just the meniscus, and I've been on PT since. I was able to return to work, 3 days after surgery(I work at Radioshack as a sales guy, a lot of standing.) I'm hoping I don't get the ACL surgery. One question though, if I do get the ACL surgery, will the effects of the PT that I'm doing right now be negated?

Scott
July 17, 2006 2:34 PM

I just tore my ACl on a dirtbike. I'm getting ready to have the surgery. The Doc has given me the options of patellar tendon, hamstring, or donor graft(cadaver). He seems to be pushing the donor graft. I'm not too sure that's the best option. I like to ski and mountain bike, don't really want to miss out on next season.

Johnny Bear
July 18, 2006 3:54 PM

To Scott: Almost all pro-athletes get the patellar allograft. Recovery time, pain, and rehab. are lot tougher with the patellar allograft but it's the strongest graft. Some will say it'll be stronger than your original ACL. Doctors like choose the donor graft because it's easier surgery, and for patients, it's less painful, and shorter recovery time. But if you want a strong ACL, go with what athletes get!! For me, it was worth missing a season of skiing for a strong knee for the moguls in the coming season! I'm 48, an avid skier and mountain biker and opted for the patellar allograft. Like I said above, I still can't do a single legged squat on my operated leg, but my doctor said most people my age can't do it good knee or not. I went mountain biking 5 months after my operation and I was "cranking" up the hill without any problems. I'm planning on getting back on the moguls in 5 months when there's snow on the Rockies. So, unless you plan on skiing the bunny hills the rest of your life, go for the patellar allograft!

cookie
July 18, 2006 11:11 PM

Hi, I'm a mom of an injured 15 yr. old...whose posted on here before...she tore her right acl while coming to a jump stop in basketball...she's about 4 1/2 mo. post surgery and doing better everyday. Her P.T. had her all pumped up towards the end of her 4th month and thought she'd pass the BIODEX Test in Flying colors and told us she thougtht the DR. would turn her lose....and that "passing" the biodex test would be 15% of difference in the bad knee to the good (unijured...sorry) when she took the test...she was at 45% defficete...which surprised the P.T. and us..they said she was doing everything so fast and well...that they thought it would be at least 15%...which is what I don't understand because when we talked to our Dr. he said he thought the results were just fine...that he figures about 10% healing per month (back step...)..so it should be 40%....which is wear she's at...have any of you had this probablem with the computer (Biodex)....?? She was kind of bummed out...but decided to keep working at it!! (-:

milan
July 23, 2006 7:00 PM

I tore my acl in 2004 playing football. but I never knew about it until couple days ago. after I went to the doctor my knee did bother me but I didn't know it was that serious. I am really scared to have the surgery the reason is I work as a cook at a restaurant. how long it will take me so I can get back to work. I do a lot of standing and I don't want to lose my job thank u please respond back p.s. I am 20 years old and a big kid about 6feet 3 inches and 265 pounds will that matter in my recovery

Rhys
July 24, 2006 1:11 PM

Im 13 and in December i had a ACL operation, for the first 3 months i was really working on it but, after 7 months it really is hard to keep on going with the recovery program.

manny
July 27, 2006 5:10 PM

I tore my right acl when I jumped stopped playing basketball, it was during the first game of my senior year. I am about 5 months out of sugery, I got the ok from my doctor to play, but this past weekend I played really hard and my knee got really swollen the next day, has this happend too anyone else?

Cookie
July 28, 2006 11:53 PM

This comment is for "Manny's" recent post about playing all out basketball on his knee after 5 month's post op. You asked if anyone else had the pain and swelling? Are you still doing P.T. Therapy on your knee...if so how much...and did you stretch before and after playing b-ball....AND DID YOU ICE YOUR KNEE?? My daughter like you...tore her ACL while coming to a jump stop at a H.S. B-ball game also....she is 5 month's post op also...but HAS NOT BEEN given the okay to go back to any kind of all out contack sport....she is going to skip volleyball this season...and get ready for basketball...Dr. said she'll probably be ready to play Dec. or Jan...which will be 10 & 11 months post op. Did you have to take the Biodex Test before the DR. let you go back to basketball full tilt? If so what was your percentage of strength/ratio of Hamstring to Quad. in your injury leg compared to you uninjured leg....?? That is the test that is suppose to determine rather you go back to playing all out sports again?? I'm curious...since your injury is so simaler to my daughters and occured at about the same time....She hurt her knee Feb. 6, 2006...while starting on the H.S. Varsity Team as a Freshman....Are you playing College Basketball now or do you plan to. So sorry for all the questions...I'm curious. Thanks! Cookie

Cookie
July 31, 2006 10:18 PM

I posted a comment to Manny last week....where did it go???

Jasmine
August 1, 2006 8:54 AM

Need help!!! My daughter has a complete ACL tear with a small tear of the posteriorn horn of the medical menisucus. First doctor recommended surgury, second doctor recommended a leg brace for six months in order to immobilize the knee and then for her to go back to playing sports and if the knee gives out then she should have the surgery. He is taking the conservative approach as he feels that A) she is too young to have the surgury (she is 16), B) limiting the use of the knee for six months will help stablized the knee and C) since she was not in any pain when he was examining her knee. Not sure what to do at this time!!

Favio Ventura
August 2, 2006 8:33 AM

I tore my acl playing HS football,I was running and i tryed to make a tackle the player went to the left side of me and i planted my foot and turned around and then i heard 2 pops,I now have 9 months since my surgery and by my fist game i will have 10 months.

Danica Floto
August 2, 2006 11:31 AM

Jasmine: I am 16 year old female much the same age as your daughter. Last year in a soccer accident I completly tore my ACL and did major cartilage damage inside the knee. My surgery date is August 21st and I am very nervous. But the reason I am writing is my doctor informed me that the longer you wait with an injury of the ACL the worse it becomes. I had tried a brace for 6 months and it did not help. I was not able to play soccer what so ever. So I think it would be wise, although we are young, to look more into the surgery side. The longer she will wait the worse it will become. Sincerely, a nervous ACL patient

KIM
August 3, 2006 7:55 AM

My daughter is 13 & is going into her freshman year in HS, she tore her ACL practicing soccer & is now 4 weeks post op. She is going to PT 3 times a week and I am working very hard with her at home with her excercies. My real concern is that at 4 weeks post- op, she can still not do a striaght leg raise. (lying on her back & raising her leg) the PT said that her quad was verrry weak, and that all of her other muscles in her leg were unusually strong. She has made tha HS soccer & basketball team, and am very concerned about this quad not getting any stronger after surgery. Wondering if I should change her Physical Theripist. I am beginning to feel that this PT is not getting the job done. If anyone else out there has had trouble with a straight leg raise weeks after surgery, please let me know!! Thanks!!

Pam
August 3, 2006 8:32 AM

This is for all of you '40-somethings' that are contemplating ACL reconstruction. I am a 44 year old female. I injured my knee back in march when I fell while skiing. If you intend on staying active I would highly reccomend having the surgery. My brother tore his ACL 4 years ago (skiing!) at the age of 35. He opted not to have the surgery and has not been able to return to skiing or even playing a pick up game of basketball! My family doctor initialy put me in PT with the hopes of strengthening my knee. After 6 weeks of PT it was decided that my knee would not be strong enough to support my activities (softball, volleyball, skiing) so surgery was scheduled. I decided to have the ACL replaced with donor tissue (an allograft) instead of using my patellar tendon or hamstring. I ended up also having a torn MCL, and a small medial meniscus tear. The doctor chose to leave the MCL tear alone and let it heal itself, and put a couple of stitches in the meniscus tear. I had my day-surgery on July 6th at 2:30 and went home around 6:30. As for the pain-I don't think of myself as having an above average tolerance for pain. I'll cry with a really bad headache! The pain in the first 24 hrs. was pretty much non-exsistent due to the nerve block that was given to me in surgery. The next 3-4 days I kept the pain under control with Vicodin. The key to pain control is taking your meds as scheduled. I woke up in the middle of the night to take my scheduled dose. Also, you can't ice too much! I kept an ice pack on my knee continually for the first few days. Like some other postings-I was nauseous during that time from the anesthesia and pain meds so you'll want to make sure you have plenty of saltine crackers and light foods on hand just in case. I was off of perscription pain meds by the 5th day and found I could control the pain with aspirin and ibuprofen. The first week isn't easy, your brace is locked and you'll probably have to sleep with it on. Thank God for my wonderful husband who took the week off of work to stay home and help me to eat, shower, dress,...etc. Before your surgery, get a small stool you can fit in your shower-I found this extremely helpful. You'll pretty much be on your back during this time so get a good supply of reading materials. Six days after surgery I went out to dinner with some friends. It was probably too soon to have my leg down for almost 3 hours. I was uncomfortable and my knee was swelling quite a bit during dinner, but I think a shorter outing would have been better tolerated. Today I'm 4 weeks out from surgery. There's virtually no swelling or pain. The PT is work, and can be painful; but I see improvement in my knee everyday. Realistically, the doc says I probably won't be skiing this winter (at our age you don't heal as quickly) but, I should be back to playing softball and volleyball next summer, and skiing next winter. Good luck everyone, I hope this helped someone make a decision. If I can get through this - anyone can!

Karen
August 3, 2006 7:21 PM

I'm trying to find results about swelling post ACL replacement. I'm 6 weeks out from surgery and my swelling is so extreme that I'm still not able to return to my office to work. My doctor indicated working in the large building is simply too much walking and had ordered me (a week ago) to sit in the recliner for 3 weeks. Well, a week later and merely going to dinner for 1 1/2 hours and you cannot tell I have an ankle, and there are actual dents in my shin from where the brace was (from the swelling). I've called continually, because I find this REALLY troublesome and they assure me it's normal? I was just curious if anyone out there had a similar experience. My ROM is "great" from what they say. I guess I'm at about 120 degrees? I'm still not able to get on my hands and knees, as there is too much swelling and it just feels like tons of pressure, but walking is trouble free (aside from the swelling and sensation of tissue getting caught in my knee cap when it's swollen).

rob
August 3, 2006 10:07 PM

Hey guys, this is a great site btw for everyone who has contributed. I tore my acl and meniscus 2 years ago playing indoor soccer. The 1st dr, didnt do the acl repair cuz it didnt show up on the mri, so he just repaired the meniscus tear. I continued to play soccer the following 2 years til i strained my knee again and couldnt walk for a week. I finally had another mri and went back to have the acl reconstruction. They used a patellar tendon graft. Anyways that was back around feb 22nd. Im about a little over 5mos out now, and my knee cracks whenever i straighten. I was wondering if anyone else experiences anything else similiar- or if there could be somehting worng with it. It still gets sore from time to time. But i also realize its only been 5 mos, and im on my feet a lot at work. I also went back to work after 4 weeks from the surgery was a little soon, i must admit. Any responses will be greatly appreciated. Thanks everyone whose been on here. And btw if anyone is contemplating getting the surgery, i would say its a definite if you like to play sports of any kind in your life. Good luck to all.

Katy
August 4, 2006 3:03 PM

hey, im 18 and i completely tore my acl, and damaged my meniscuses playin basketball, this happened back in february and i just got the surgery not too long ago, but it gave me time to strengthen my injured knee, and have a full range of motion, which is really helpfull before haveing the surgery, i just had acl reconstuctive surgery about 3 weeks ago, i had a allograft (donor tissue) inserted, and it is going ok, im doin physical therapy, and next week ill b able to start walking on it, the only thing i dont like is the leg brace, its really annoying haha, but my physical therapist has told me that i have more strength in my leg than someone who had their surgery 2 weeks before me, so i guess its a good thing. i was jus wondering how long until it took people to be able to walk normally and without a brace?

Geraldine
August 5, 2006 6:54 PM

I hurt my knee playing womens football and l am 44 yrs old the last 10 min of the quarter l twisted my right foot and heard a pop in the side of my knee cap. I had my surgery on the 1st August 06 and still quite painful haaven't started pt yet but will happen this week. I am on crutches but no brace l am very fit and very keen to get back to sport. All you people who have had acl surgery look at it this way. This is a short term pain and yes! You can play sport again. Don't try and over do it just take one day as it comes.

Seanny K
August 6, 2006 6:49 PM

To Kathy - or whoever I am six weeks post op (allograph). Within a week after surgery I had almost full mobility in my knee. Although my therapist and doctor say I am doing very well, I get very frustrated dealing with this swelling. I will rest for days (still doing PT of course), and the swelling in my knee is almost gone> Then as soon as I am on my feet for more that an hour or so - BANG!! I'm back to square one. My doctor and therapist say it is normal but I still wonder. Deep down I just know that I'll Be OK. ICE ICE BABY----_-_

Chad Milam
August 6, 2006 8:59 PM

I had my 2nd surgery (1st surgery was left knee, this one is the right) on July 20th. For mine they used a graft of my patellar tendon. Here are some answers to some of the questions above based on my experience. * Results may varry * :-) Both surgeries were on a Thursday and on Friday they had me in doing PT. I'm doing PT 3 times a week for about 3 weeks (I'm just getting ready to start my 3rd week). I was on crutches for about a week, down to 1 crutch for about a week and now I'm starting to walk around w/o crutches. I'm really slow though. Pain isn't too bad any longer. Just have a hard time getting comfortable sleeping. Swelling has gone down quite a bit but I still do have some. My 1st surgery it seems like the swelling in and around the knee stayed around for quite a while but the rest of the leg was fine. I'm still not able to get down on my hands and knees on my right leg and we'll see about the left as I recover. that's because for my surgery they have to cut through some nerves to graft the tendon. Those nerves are not quite normal. My first surgery was in August 2004 and I ran a 5K on Thanksgiving day '04. I was back to playing basketball in December. Hope this answers some of the questions above. Good luck to all.

Robert
August 6, 2006 10:16 PM

Katy, - I'm an athletic training/ physical therapy major, and at 19 years old i had surgery about 7 months ago. As far as walking goes, it took me a good while (I can't remember exacly how long) before I could walk because, just like you, I tore my meniscus along with my ACL. I remember progressing very slowly and carefully even though it was really hard for me not to try and go all out at once and ditch the brace as soon as possible. I know it's reeeally frustrating, but in the long run it's better to be safe than to re-injure your ACL. I wore the brace for a VERY long time even after i got off the crutches. Good luck with your healing process and whatever else you do! Rob, - I had a clicking noise in my knee around about 5 or 6 months also. My doctor told me that it was normal and that any popping/cracking was just scar tissue build up. I injured my knee the same way that you did playing indoor soccer! ... Good luck with getting back to the game! Question for anyone else - I am debating about trying out for the college soccer team. I was just curious how many people on here have gone back to sports after their surgery and how soon???? I'm at 7 months now, is that too soon to go back to playing full-contact? Wait another year, or play this year? My doctor says go for it, but I've heard otherwise.

Robert
August 6, 2006 10:24 PM

Karen - I just read your post and felt that I should comment on it because I had the same exact experience and did lots of research on it. At that time I was having the EXACT same issues. My brace was leaving dents where the swelling was and my ankle was VERY swollen because I didn't wrap the ace bandages tight enough. I went to the hospital and they explained it to me. At this point (two months) i was doing a LOT of physical therapy and ROM excercises. Obviously this is what was causing excessive swelling and bruising. But they said that the more it swells the better it will recover later on. This is probably why your ROM is above average at this point. The blood is rushing to your surgical sight to heal everything since you are doing so much work on your knee. It was very painfull for me also and now i am fully recovered. I wish you the best of luck in your recovery process and all of your future endeavors! :)

Robert
August 6, 2006 10:33 PM

Kim - I just read the entry about your daughter. I also had trouble with the straight leg raises for a LONG time. I remember being soooo frustrated that I had to literally PICK UP my leg by the brace every time that i wanted to move it. No matter how much i willed or tried it would not lift. So, I read up and talked to my surgeon. Here is the response I got - When you are within even the first 5 weeks of recovery your muscles are still tramatized by the surgery. Her quad might not necessarily be too weak to lift itself up, it might just be the case that her muscle memory hasn't been built up yet. He told me that it is very normal to not be able to lift the quad on its own for awhile. I was doing simple excercises for weeks! (just laying on the ground and tightening my quad) (also standing on the opposite leg and literally swinging my surgery leg back and forth as high as i could get it) As far as her quad goes in the long run, I know that with her young age there will be no problem whatsoever in her recovering the muscle tissue as long as she is willing to work on it. I wish you and your daughter the best of luck in everything and I hope that my own experience with ACL surgery can help her with hers.

Angela
August 7, 2006 6:16 PM

This site was very helpful in preparing me for what was to come. I tore my acl during cheerleading about a month and a half ago and following a visit to my ortho, I was scheduled for surgery in a month. I did rehab 3 times a week for a month before surgery to strengthen all the muscles, especially my thigh muscle. My doc also used my hamstring when it connects to the shin. The surgery was basically the same as yours. However, I noticed slight differences. I went under anesthesia at 3pm and came out of the operating room at 9:30pm. The anesthesiologist told me beforehand that the procedure would take 6-8 hrs. In my hospital room, they let me rest for about 2 hrs, then started me on the CPM machine. I hated it, the pain was unbearable. Even with the meds. But I lasted on it for 23 hrs. At the very end, my knee was bending 100 degrees. Immediately after the CPM, I was fitted for my brace and started rehab (learning to walk with crutches). This wasn't very difficult. The doc also made me start to the straight leg lifts. Those were difficult. I went into the hospital on thursday, came out saturday morning. After resting all afternoon, I started practicing my leg lifts, and for some unknown reason..the were quite easy to do. After walking on my crutches that night, I decided to give them up, and by sunday morning, I was supporting myself on my injured leg w/o crutches. I've been walking with my brace w/o crutches since then and my leg really hasn't given my much trouble. Aside from the huge brace, I can bend by myself 90 degrees and stand on it straight. Of course I need a lot more work to strengthen my leg, but my therapist is delighted with my progress. Plus, it's only been 8 days since my surgery. There's barely any pain, just soreness. There is still swelling, but only in my knee. None of it drifted south. Im really surprised at how well im doing. I really thought it would be a lot worse.

manny
August 8, 2006 1:16 AM

Replying to cookie Sorry it took so lng, I past my biodex test at 3 months, sorry but I don't remember the %, but the doctor told me after the test I should still do exercises to keep my hamstring strong, and no I didn't stretch or ice after I played, and yes I do plan too play in college, I just went to my doctor too ask if the swelling was normal and he said yea some days are just going to be like that just be prpared to ice after a hard day, I hope I answered all of your ?'s If not my email is manny1551@yahoo.com, I think it would b good for us to ask each other questions since our sugery date is so close

manny
August 8, 2006 1:16 AM

Replying to cookie Sorry it took so lng, I past my biodex test at 3 months, sorry but I don't remember the %, but the doctor told me after the test I should still do exercises to keep my hamstring strong, and no I didn't stretch or ice after I played, and yes I do plan too play in college, I just went to my doctor too ask if the swelling was normal and he said yea some days are just going to be like that just be prpared to ice after a hard day, I hope I answered all of your ?'s If not my email is manny1551@yahoo.com, I think it would b good for us to ask each other questions since our sugery date is so close

Patrick
August 8, 2006 3:25 AM

This site and everybody's input has helped alot. I go tomorrow to the orthopedic doctor tomorrow to talk about which surgery I will undergo to repair my ACL. I feel very informed and a step ahead of what the doctor will say. The doctor does all the work for the Tennessee Titans football team so hopefully he will understand my need to getting back to playing basketball ASAP. Don't know if anybody else has felt this way but , this experience so far is very sureal. Almost like it isnt even happening. Ive been the picture of health my whole life and now this. I guess after surgery it will set in....I Think

danny
August 8, 2006 7:27 AM

hi.. does anyone knows a good Dr for knee in nyc..? thanks danny

Lee Peddie
August 9, 2006 11:02 AM

I am 1 1/2 years post op from a torn ACL while playing soccer. I had the hamstring procedure. A few months ago, I started getting swelling in the bone at the incision site, then it would go away. I spoke with my surgeon who said it is an "itis". I forgot the full name, but obviously there is irritation in the bone from the screw. He said not to worry about it. In the last 3 weeks, the screw has actually started to work its way out out of the bone...now about a 1/4 of an inch. Anybody have this happen to them? Since it takes approx. 4 years for these bio screws to degrade what happens if I just have the screw taken out? What about the hole in the bone? I am apt to just have him remove the screw but would love some feedback before I talk to my surgeon again.

Bill
August 9, 2006 11:51 AM

Two injuries playing rugby left me with snapped acl's in both knees. One was fixed some months ago, the right knee on 3 August 2006. After an overnight stay in hospital I was into physio the next day & discharged on crutches. Surgery was under 2 hours, with a local anaesthetic (I react badly to general)- basically numbed from the waist down. A surreal experience hearing the drilling & chiselling.The surgeon was excellent & explained in detail what to expect. If you have any doubts, always ask or you will dread the worst. My physio has made me do the recooperation excercises even before surgery & this is now paying dividends. In less than a week, I am off crutches, walking (though slowly with a limp) and can flex the knee past 90 degrees. Swelling is down - regular icing after excercise is recommended. My advice is to listen to your surgeon & do everything your physio tells you to do. At times you will appear to be getting nowhere & frustration becomes your worst enemy. Persevere, it will come right - I've done it once & am about to start again. Don't overdo it - I pushed myself last time & only succeeded in tearing my already weakened hamstring, setting me back about a month. If you are reading this, feeling down & thinking he's lucky being young & fit - I am 49. If I can do it anyone can. My goal? My friends & family have a skiing holiday booked for April 2007. I had to sit out this years holiday as I was in the middle of my left knee rehab- now I have a target to keep me going when things don't appear to be going well.

Nicola
August 14, 2006 6:57 PM

This reply is for Jasmine - your daughter should go for the surgery. The longer you leave it the more damage could be done to the tear which may result in the cartilage being completely displaced. If that happens you could be signing her up for early onset of arthritis. I had what sounds like a very similar injury as your daughter but didn't know the extent of the damage until it popped a year later. When I found out, I, like you, thought of just leaving it until my surgeon explained that I would more than likely end up with bad arthritis early. Without the ACL functioning properly (or at all) we pretty much grind away at what is left which is basically the cartilage. We only have so much of that to spare too. I know you must be nervous for your daughter, but trust me, the sooner the better. To the people wondering about which graft to take, if you have the option, take the cadaver tendon. I have been most unlucky with my hammy graft since surgery with acute pains in my bottom. They are sporadic, unpredictable and very painful. My physios have not seen it before, nor my surgeons. Of course it was not helped by having high grade tear in the same hamstring 4 weeks post op in a further accident on my way home from work. I am now 5 months post op, not allowed to run, ski, horse ride or do anything even remotely unstable yet. I do physio and rehab 2/3 times a week and exercises every day myself when I am at home. Good luck to those of you waiting, and just remember, the surgery is the easy part. All in all, it is about 30% surgery and 70% rehab. Just be very careful on your way home from work!

Mike Whipple
August 15, 2006 8:51 PM

I had ACL reconstruction surgery 8 days ago (7 Aug) I am really surprised with the progress I am making. I dont know if I should be but, I am able to walk without crutches and without my immobilizer (shhh dont tell my wife!) I really dont have much pain and I am able to bend my knee while sitting. Probably about 70 degrees. I had a donors tendon replacing my acl and have about a 4 inch incison on the left side of my knee and 2 1/2 inch incisions on the top of my knee. So far I definetly recommend the surgery but, Im yet to go back to see my doc for a follow up (Thursday).

Danica
August 17, 2006 10:23 AM

Well I just got the crutches and the cryo cuff today which is really making everything sink in; surgery's on monday, 8 am. and I couldn't be more nervous. Anyways my ? was the ride home. How did anyone manage to sit in the front seat any recommendations as I have a long journey back home afterwards. thnx<3

Cookie
August 21, 2006 9:26 AM

I've just caught up reading most recent comments on here...and once again it is so nice to hear other ppls comments about their surgery....my daughter who had the ACL reconstruction 6mo. ago (Feb. 27 to be exact) is doing well...of course she wants to do "better"...because according her her Physical Therapist (P.T.) she should be at a 15% defecit on her BioDex Test...and she is still at about 30%....P.T. said before you go back to playing sports all out...that you need to be at 15% defecit between good knee and reconstructed knee ....the only problem is...she has just in the past two months or less been released to do more in depth quad work on her reconstructed knee....so of course this is going to take awhile....while her good knee/leg....has grown in muscle strength and size compared to the injured/reconstructed knee...so now she is trying to do most of the heavy work on the reconstructed knee to get them closer to being to equal strength....her Dr/Surgeon told her 30% is okay....he said to figure about 10% increase after surgery...so at 6 months post op. that would be 60% increase leaving a 40% goal for the next 4 months...so according to Dr. my daughter is pretty much where she should be...it's hard though...because she like most of the people on her who have had knee injuries and mom's of daughters like me who have had the knee injury....have to watch and listen to our kids confusion on wanting to get back in there and play/compete as soon as possible...like they and THEIR COACHES want them to...LOL...SO THIS COMMENT IS TO THE YOUNGER ACL PATIENTS....DON'T RUSH IT....YOU HAVE YOUR WHOLE LIFE AHEAD OF YOU TO LIVE AND YOU WANT YOUR KNEE TO BE AS HEALTHY AS POSSIBLE...Our Dr. said this 6 month post op. period is kind of a "gray area"....so why rush it...he told my daughter who does about every sport imaginable...and is currently sitting out her So. Yr. of Volleyball just to make sure she can be ready for H.S. Basketball in a couple of months even though the coaches keep telling her that she could/should come back AND DO VOLLEYBALL NOW....because they need her...(one of the coaches has had acl recon. surgery on both of her knees and said the 2nd time she started playing v-ball only after 4 month post op...but mainly played on the back row...w/out much jumping like you would on the front row)....BUT THAT SHE HAD QUITE A BIT OF SWELLING AFTER EACH GAME....so to me and what I know about the human body...that is still saying that your newly constructed knee isn't quite ready yet...and we keep telling them that she'll be back next year (her JR yr.) better then ever is she rehabs it the right way (conservitive way) right now...some trainers..P.T., Coaches make players wait a full year before they make a come back....this is so hard to know what to do...my daughter is also on the dance team...she does go to practice and does most of the moves....but Dr. told her not to jump yet or do the first dance they are performing at the first football game...because there are too many kicks in it....so unhappiely she agreed to do what he said and informed the rest of her teammates that she would have to sit that dance out ...or have her part changed and be moved to where she wouldn't be right out in front....hopefully this will pay off in the long run....I'll keep you posted....so to Robert I believe was the name who asked if he thought 7 months post op. was okay to go back into Soccor and try to play College Level...I would say you're getting close to being able to ....and if your Dr. says go for it...you should...I know our P.T. would say yes..especially if you've taken a BioDex Test...or a series of Standing/Jumping Tests that some people perform to see if your strengh is ready to go back out there and play...there is never 100% guarantee though...most ppl say that there is more danger in your other knee getting torn then your reconstruted knee....all the knee injuries are different...and certain sports are different..they say soccer and basketball being the hardest on knees....football is too "if" you get hit that is....to the girl who had the cheerleading injury...I'm wondering what your age is and how you are doing?...and the people who had hamstring grafts and had complications...I'm wondering if your Dr. suggested this time of graft?? Our doctor wanted us to us the Petela AutoGraft from my daughters on petela tendon...because it has been proven to be the strongest of all the grafts...even though the pain in the front of the knee hangs on a bit until it is healed...which can take up to 3 years...for it to reconstruct itself...so always good to keep a sleeve or brace around that knee when she/you play sports...if you use the hamstring strand...it can mess up your hammy and cause it to be week....and as a few of you have stated...a week hammy can be devistating...plus I think the attachment procedure is more complicated....takes more screws...which as stated can cause problems too...the petela tendon..actually takes bone plugs that attaches right into the ends of the bones..and grow into the bone...Cadavor Grafts are less painful for the victim gettng ACL Reconstruction...but have a chance of spreading infection/disease coming from the donor....and again from what I've read and what Dr. said is not as strong as auto graph from petela....but if you're not planning on doing heavy all out sports would work for some ppl. Sorry to go on and on...this is all a learning process for me...GOOD LUCK TO ALL....and keep the info. coming. Manny let me know if you made the college team...since your injury was the same time as my daughters. (-: God Bless COOKIE

cheryl
August 22, 2006 7:43 PM

My daughter (13 years old) is now at 9 1/2 months post op and started playing full contact in games this weekend . Her speed has not fully returned, but her skills, strength, stamina, and power are all intact and she is rocking on the soccer field once again. It was a long, scary, devastating journey but she showed true grit and the will to return to the sport she loves and we are all so proud of her. It will be so fitting if this year at U14 her team wins the national title :) Our best advice would be to "follow your doctors orders". We hear of so many athletes trying to return to their sport too soon. Good luck to everyone.

Bethan
August 23, 2006 8:39 AM

I have just had my left ACL repaired using my hamstring. I had my right ACL repaired 8 years ago using the tendon running over my knee cap. The early repair has held strong through snowboarding, netball and all other sports. My recovery speed has been speedy both times - walking without crutches within 10 days. The key is to do plenty of specific exercise to build up the leg muscles prior to surgery. The hamstring op was much quicker for recovery though - I stayed in one night and could bend to 90 degrees and straight leg lift the same evening rather than after 3 days. The brusing has been far more spectacular but not painful. I have heard the hamstring repair does not take as much load - has anyone had problem returning to competitive sport following this type of repair?

M. Valdez
August 24, 2006 10:00 PM

I was injured 4/07/06. I had ACL surgery on 4/21/06 while my leg was still swolen. I was not at all familiar with what I should expect. My doctor advised me that 50% of my recovery would come from the therapy - that was the extent of his explanation. Having had no previous surgeries - and being in pain as I was at the time - I had not idea what this meant - nor did I care at time. I was sent to the doctor's perferred physical therapist. They had a tradition rehabilitation program. It was not at all accelarated. I was told I was on track, on the third week, I learned from the Doctor that was not the case. I was actually doing bad. The therapist and the doctor disagreed on where I should be... Four months later I still have major knee stiffness, my leg is not straight, and my back is taking a beating! Here's my advice to anyone considering ACL surgery: 1 - Don't be afraid to ask questions - if your Doctor does not provide you complete and thorough answers look for another Doctor! 2 - Do not have surgery while your knee is still swollen! 3 - Be mentally prepared to experience pain right after the surgery! Ask your family for support. 4 - Take your rehab program serious! Have an "exercise" plan and STICK TO IT! 5 - Ask to look at the Rehab Plan from the Therapist before you begin therapy. Compare rehabilitation plan with different therapist and select that one that appears most aggressive, this means they business - which is what you must have!!!!! 6 - Do research - the web as many resources... Look at what a plan should look like, be familiar with the exercises you will be doing, before your surgery. 7 - Because you will be on many pain killers - be prepared to take laxatives - I was down during my first week of surgery with constipation, I did not know that my first week was critical to my success - I am now paying the price! 8 - Lastly do not trust your doctor or therapist BLINDLY - they are not God - and certainly they DON'T know it all! If anyone has any suggestions for what I can do to straighten my knee four months post-surgery PLEASE tell me. I must get this knee straight before my back goes out! Thank you and May Jehovah God Bless.

Lil
August 25, 2006 6:51 AM

I am scheduled to have surgery in a couple of weeks. Has anyone had ACL reconstruction under regional and not general anesthesia?

Rich in Boston
August 27, 2006 10:12 PM

This reply is to Nicola and to Jasmine. Nicola is so right. I tore my ACL and MCL 8 years ago playing Indoor soccer and I only had arthoscopic surgery done to repair the MCL 8 years ago. I have lived with a torn ACl for 8 years now and I am very active. I always wear my massive knee brace during sports, but I have blown out my knee 8 times in the last 8 years playing sports and even dancing in a club one night because I never had the ACL surgery when I was 21 years old. I regret that decision and my surgeon should have done it. Long story. Anyways, I blew my knee out in Softball 3 weeks ago in 8/06 and I am now going to get the ACL surgery finally done in 10/06 in Boston, MA. Wish me luck, I'm bummed out, no skiing or any sports for at least 8-10 months. Do not put off the surgery. You will regret it. Peace

Boye
August 29, 2006 8:59 AM

I tore my AC ligament playing American football, I had to wait for nearly a year on the NHS for surgery, the alternative was going private and paying ÂŁ6000. I had a day surgery, I checked in that morning and left the same day on crutches, however when I got home i was constantly in pain and on pain killers. 1 year down the line, I can play competitive soccer and I do play weekly, I am still a bit too scared to go back to American football which is a shame beacuse I loved the game. My advice is to pay attention to the exercises and work out in the gym as often as you can. I still run faster than 99% of the people on my football team :)

Kiki
August 29, 2006 2:52 PM

Lil, my husband had the ACL surgery done in April and he didn't use the general anesthsia. He used epidural. Also we requested to have sedation because he didn't want to watch the whole surgery. In this way, he was like taking a nap and didn't know what's going on. After the surgery, he felt great and no nausea feelings.

derrick
August 30, 2006 3:48 AM

im having my surgrey 6 months after tearing my acl has anyone else waited that long

Mike
August 31, 2006 1:00 PM

Hi All, Good to see a forum with everyone sharing their stories. As for me, I am a 23 year old who had a full thickness tear of my L-ACL. 8 Days ago I had reconstruction from my own pattella tendon the also shaved 30% of my meniscus. I have to say that luckily i am having a great recovery. I got rid of the crutches after 4 days. I was only on pain meds for 3. I am riding a stationary bike for up to 30 min a day in addition to all the recomended excercises from my PT. My PT said i am on the road to maybe a 6 week recovery. Now i know there is a reson for this. I hurt my ACL in december skiing, then again in may playing volleyball, finally in the summer tryin to climb a tree (i know i'm an idiot). After seeing the surgeons they told me the best thing to do is get my leg in shape for the surgery. Now i am a very active outdoors man, I whitewater kayak, rock climb, ice climb, ski ,snowboard, mountain bike, road bike, and hike. After hurting my knee the thrid time i got serious about making the kneee strong. I stopped doing anything except for Road biking. I rode my road bike EVERY day and did up to 200miles a week. This is what made the difference. So don't rush to surgery allow yourself time to build up that muscle. This has made all the difference to me and my recovery. I know i am still early on but I have a great outlook for the possiblilty of returning to the activities that i love in maybe 3 months! So get on a bike and get your knee strong it really will make all the difference for you ! Mike

Casey
August 31, 2006 2:11 PM

Hi all, great resource! I am a 40 year old patient, tore my ACL on 5/27/06. Tomorrow I am 8 weeks post op with an allograft donor tendon (had the surgery on 7/7/06), and starting to really see progress over the last couple of weeks. I did a few weeks of physical therapy prior to the operation, which I think helped a lot. I was very nervous going into it. I had general anesthesia and stayed in the hospital overnight (some sort of 23 hour observation thing). While in the recovery room I had a morphine drip, which kept me pretty well out of it. I was in a CPM machine and cryo-cuff almost immediately after the surgery. I saw someone ask upthread about the ride home, I was pretty lucky there and just sat longways in the back seat of our SUV. I didn't do too well with the morphine, from the time I was unplugged from the IV and released from the hospital through the short drive home I tossed my cookies four times. Once I got home I was in the CPM and cryo-cuff pretty much non-stop for the first few days, to the point that the back of my leg had purple bruises the full length. We were going through about 40 pounds of ice a day in the cryo cuff for a couple of weeks. The first week was really rough pain wise, I was chomping pain pills every 3 hours. By the end of the second week it had tapered off, and by the 3rd week I was back to work doing half days. I was on two crutches and the brace, but by around week five I was down to one crutch, and able to hobble around the house without it. This week I've been able to leave the crutch home, and I am just about where I was before the surgery. More than a few times I questioned my decision to have the operation. Hats off to those of you who have had to do this more than once! Now that the worst is behind me, I am getting more and more enthusiastic about having had it done. I definitely see improvement after each PT session, and there are moments where I feel like my old self again. I feel very lucky in that my wife is a school teacher, so she was home throughout my recovery. I agree with the previous poster about how surreal the whole thing has been- from consultations to MRI to the whole hospital experience and then recovery, it's been the weirdest summer of my life, and it's amazing to me to look back and think that it really happened. I play in a rock band and jump around on stage a lot, and I can see myself getting back to my old form, which is very exciting. Good luck to everyone with surgery pending!!

bubba
September 1, 2006 12:00 AM

hi about last friday i tore my hamstring in a football game and i have been going to physical tharpie and i would just like to know what the averge time period it takes to heal

beth
September 2, 2006 1:05 PM

hi everyone, i commented on this site a while ago i think, well my story. i tore my right acl and menial and lateral meniscus back in feb 2006. I am a senior in high school now but then i was still a junior, I was in the college search then for (soccer) i had only a couple of offers from different places but it didnt satisfy me. i decided to continiue to play at a highly competitive level and thats exactly what i did for 3 months. yes i ordered a brace wore it for about 45 min and took it right back to the doctor and said sorry i can not wear this. it almost felt like it was a constant reminder of my knee. so i just worked out the muscles that wrap around the knee about 4 times a week and i was back to playing at id say about 95% then in april i was cheap shotted right whereit counts the knee gave for the first time since feb the pain was bad but i could still walk alright. the thing that got me to get the surgery was yeah i was playing well enough to get what i wanted but the next level wasnt there if you compete in a high level you know what im talking about. i know if i didnt get it i would DIE incollege soccer. if anyone is unsure about the surgery process (i had a contra graft) feel free to email me my email is bethyclif18@gmail.com ! i know how much someone goes through especially when they want to return to thier sport im back playing 4 months later(got the surgery may 9) and im more than ready to show em what i got...

lisa carlson
September 3, 2006 5:03 PM

my daughter just had her 4th surgery on her knee. it was her 2nd total acl repiar. she blew her knee as a freshman in basketball. after her 1st surgery on the acl she came down down with mrsa staff infection,(#2) it was nasty they said it came from the screws at surgery time. had pick line in for 3 months , at 15 years old its not a good time to try bonding with your daughter. year off therapy and tried track, then even with a brace on something popped in softball. after a surgery(#3) for her miniscus, we found out her acl was bad. her surgery was thursday aug.31st. sunday night sept 3rd we are going to the movies and can walk without cruthes. not without me screaming at her though. her recovery this time is unbelievalbe. not sure if its because how deadicated she is to therapy, or the cooling machine, or possibly the muscle schock thing she is doing. or possibly a great dr. i would suguest to anyone to go with the hamstring . even the dr. s recommended using the patella, just after having it this way, it seems much better. less pain full. as parents we dont want our daughter to be in sports anymore, after 4 surgerys you start to wopnder if its worth it. she is out this year and if she decideds to try it , it will be her senior year. woould not even matter if she wasnt so competive. good luck to all

Cassidy
September 3, 2006 11:44 PM

I tore my ACL at the end of April 2006 playing soccer. I waited until August 18 2006 to have ACL reconstruction surgery. I had 2 faciaotomies on my calves in Oct and Dec 03, and I had a lot of scar tissue build up and some nerve damage that still has not gone away. Because of this, I decided to use a cadaver graft to minimize the possibity of nerve damage and scar tissue build up. It is now 2 weeks and 2 days since my surgery and I think I am doing well. The orginal goal of my physical therapist was to have me walking without crutches by 2 weeks post op. I was walking 6 days after surgery without crutches. I was able to do straight leg raises without a quadriceps lag a day later, or one week after surgery. My active range of motion as of 3 days ago was -8 degrees to 90 degrees. My passive range of motion is -8 degrees to 100 degrees. I began physical therapy 3 days after surgery and I still had 8 degrees of hyper extension. I have gone to 6 PT sessions and this week I begin therapy in the pool at PT. My physical therapist told me that I can walk around my house without the brace on, which is a relief to my annoying brace. I waited 3.5 months from the day of my tear to the date of my surgery, and I didn't do physical therapy during that time. To anyone else that has had the same recovery pattern that I have had, how long did you have to wear the immobilizer brace for? To me, its the most uncomfortable part of recovery and the hardest thing to get used to?

Jenna
September 4, 2006 4:18 PM

I waited 8 years after tearing my ACL for surgery. My only reason for waiting this long is i was 17 and plain stupid. I spent years in PT and it never got better. I decided that being able to be active was way more important to me at 25 than it was when i was younger. i just had surgery the 30th. Today is my 5th day after surgery. The surgery went well and with the help of the morphine i wasnt in that much pain. The second day was the worst for me, because all of the drugs from surgery had left my body i was left to rely only on Vicodin. When I am sitting or laying with my leg elevated I am pain free. Standing up from my bed or chair is still incredibly painful though. i have the first post-op doctors appointment tomorrow. I read this blog in the weeks prio to my surgery and found everyone's comments very helpful! Thanks!

Rosi
September 5, 2006 5:55 AM

KiKi Do you know what anaesthetic regime your husband had, as I really don't want a general for my ACL reconstruction after the horrid time I had after my meniscectomy.

Bill in England
September 5, 2006 2:11 PM

To Derrick - If you are on the NHS waiting list, 6 months is quick! My left knee took 13 months ( & I had skipped the queue by paying for the scan/consultation). My right knee was done on 3 August 2006 & I waited 10 months. It could have been 6-8 monhs, but I wanted the same surgeon again as he was recommended independently by 3 physio friends, a doctor friend & my own doctor. 1 month on & I am glad I waited. I see Michael Owen has just gone to America to have his ACL repaired. Let's see if I back playing before him!

Carollynne
September 5, 2006 3:16 PM

Hi Derrick I waited five years. Carollynne

BRYAN
September 5, 2006 11:06 PM

Its been almost 7 years since my ACL operation. Doc used my hamstring for the repair and still to this day, I struggle to get my hamstring strong again. This has been very frustrating. Anyone have this problem??

Lil
September 6, 2006 2:58 PM

Derrick, I tore my ACL skiing late October 2005. In April 2006, I scheduled my surgery for the fall of 2006 since I did not want to do the rehab during the summer. I will have it in the beginning of October 2006, so it will be almost a year. I should have had it done sooner because I am having pain with just daily activities.

Kiki
September 7, 2006 10:48 AM

Rosi - my husband had epidural for his ACL resconstruction surgery using the patellar tendon. We also requested a sedation, so my husband won't be aware of what's going on around him during the surgery. He said it's taking a nap. The reason that we don't want to have the general anesthetic is after he had the appendectomy, he was throwing up every 15 mins for 24 hours straight. That's horrible. This time, he felt great and no nausea feeling at all. So you might want to explain to your doctor about you have problem or bad experience with the general anesthetic, and see if he can do local anesthetic like epidural instead. If you don't want to watch the surgery, ask for sedation.

JAY
September 7, 2006 8:29 PM

I have been skimming this site for about 2 weeks. I first tore my ACL and Meniscus about 15 years ago while playing high school Lacrosse. I body checked an attackmen, and we both went down, but my left knee was the first body part to hit the ground, disinegrating the ligament. I had reconstructive surgury about 4 months after the injury, utlizing the hamstring. I had a tough time with the initial recovery. I was in the hospital for 4 days and was not permitted to even try and get out of bed until day 2 or 3. Pain was anther issue as I was 14 at the time and I really do not recall getting any pain killers except tylenol. All was well until almost a month ago when I had a freak accident and twisted my left knee. I felt about 3 pops and I knew it was bad. After the MRI it was determined that I retore the ACL, damaged the PCL, MCL, and Meniscus. It is now a month later and I just had my surgury this morning. I was amazed at how the technology has changed in 15 years. I was in and out in a day. I arrived at 6 am and was out by 1p.m. I had the cadaver allograft, as this is the prefered method for revisional ACL surgury, since I am almost 30 and not playing competive sports, I thought this the best option for me. I have been out of the hosptial for 8 hours and feel great. The worst part of this experience was the Demoral, and Percosit given in the hospital. I was on an empty stomach and I had the naseau but absolutely no pain!!! Even at home there is no pain ( due to the Vocidin ), and unlike the first surgury I can walk on cruthes and bear weight. Havine been thru this before I was mentally prepared for the worst and have been pleasently surprised up to this point. I hope everyones ACL surgury goes as well as this

Hannah
September 8, 2006 9:28 AM

hi, i tore my acl in febuary and apparantly i didnt need surgery so from feb until now i have been doing physiotheropy, but yesturday my physio said that my knee will always be unstable, and i cud just do one little thing and i would be back to square one. I was really upset about this as im only 16, and i really want to do some not so crazy things, like go backpacking, windurf, surf. Go skiing again, but the physio said i wouldnt be able to do any of that. So im now thinking again about the sergury but it seems to take so long to recover im scared of missing a lot of school as im taking my AS i cant really be doing with a lot of time off. and now im confused and in the need of advice. thank you

Eric Lawson
September 8, 2006 10:54 AM

Eric- I recently just tore my ACL for the third time on the same knee, my doctor said it is only the third person he has ever had this happen to. My first injury came when i was a freshamn in high school and i got hit in football with a helment, i then tore it agian my junior to senior year playing basketball, the finally i tore it 3 years later playing basketball agian. I have to get surgery on it for the third time now. My first time the took it from my hamstring and the second was a cadavior. Hopefully this will be my last surgery!

Ann
September 10, 2006 12:31 PM

Hello there. I am a 15 years old female and I tore my ACL in late april of 2006 while playing in a soccer game. I was on a breakway towards the goal, but when the defender was coming up behind me and attempted to slide tackle me, I jumped up. When I came back down, my knee completely gave out, twisting and creating a huge CRACK noise. I had surgery at the end of june of 2006, as they repaired my ACL and my meniscus. I will have to miss all my highschool freshman sports of soccer and basketball this year, which is a huge bummer. I have been going to physical therapy every week for two weeks since the surgery, and things are going well. It's been about two and a half months since the surgery, and I have almost complete range of motion in my knee. Hopefully this will the first and the last of my knee injuries!

james
September 10, 2006 8:12 PM

on the first day of football practice i tore my acl, strained my mcl and shredded my menisci in my left knee. I had surgery a month later that lasted about 2 hours. I quit taking the oxycontins prescribed to me the day after surgery because i felt they did no good (i was right). I began to walk with my knee immobalizer a week after surgery and now, four days later, i am walking unsuported around my house. Whenever i go out (to school or to the store) i wear my knee brace. Everyone tells me about their broke knees and how they were on crutches for weeks and weeks and they're all pretty much amazed that i am up and about. I can bend it 110 degrees on my own and support my full weight (260) on my injured knee. I look foward to fishing and running equipment in the coming weeks but all in all i'll probably take it easy for awhile.

Bianca
September 12, 2006 5:55 AM

Hannah-Get the surgery when you are done with your AS !! It will be the best thing you have ever done. I got my surgery when I was only 14. Age doesn't matter it's what you love to do that you could never give up on. It's worth it inthe end. I'm 15 now and just gotten realesed to play basketball from my doctor and even though it was painful at times, it's all worth it in the end.

Alex
September 12, 2006 3:32 PM

I tore my ACL (God knows how, I didn't even feel it) playing handball... Handball is big here in Norway ;D. I'm 21, and I've played for 12 years. Never had a problem. Then I changed shoes, or that is, I changed brand. About 20 minutes into the game, my ACL went bye-bye. Moral: If it works, stick with it... Anyway, I don't have to tell you guys how much this sucks. Had the operation 12 days ago. A hamstring graft was used, plus something called an EZloc to fix it to the femur. It didn't hurt, but it is uncomfortable. I managed to walk without crutches today, which feels really good, cuz now I know I'm having some progress. I'm really glad I had the surgery. Without it, I'd probably never play any ballsports ever again. To those in doubt; Yes, the recovery takes time. Yes, it is uncomfortable and even painful. But it is worth it. I'd rather have 3-6 months of three times the time and effort in my workouts, than having to be careful for the rest of my life and being afraid of causing trauma to the knee. Bottom line: Get the surgery, do as your physician says, and you'll be back at 100% in no-time. That's how good the surgeons are nowadays. Good luck!

SHELLY
September 13, 2006 2:56 PM

I just had ACL surgery August 18. I am in my full 3rd week of recovery. I am an active person and have little patience. However, I am very glad I had the surgery. With a lot of physical therapy and positive thoughts, I will be up and running again. My thoughts are that I just want to be normal again. I see progression every day with my slow but good recovery.

Geral
September 19, 2006 6:27 AM

well, i tore my acl during a high school soccer game and i'm having a surgury 2 days from today and im just kinda of nervous of how its going to turn out and im hoping i can get back to being back to 100% because im only 16 and i feel that i may have a future ahead of me and one question, how does the pain feel the first couple of days after surgery.

Ellen
September 20, 2006 8:00 AM

I had my acl surgery aprox. 5 months ago. I am a 42 year old female. I did not have insurance so I have run out of money to continue physical therapy and doctors visits. I started jogging about a month ago but I really do not remember when they said I could go back to playing sports like tennis, raquetball (non contact) I am not in the shape of most of you youngsters out there but was wondering when most people's doctors allow them to return to non contact sports.

Jennifer
September 20, 2006 12:38 PM

I'm 7 months out of ACL surgery and still don't have full range of motion back. I'm close in extension - it will straighten but not hyperextend and lock out. Flexion I'm about an inch away from getting my heel to touch my bottom. My doctor says it could take as long as a year to get full range of motion back. He says it's not scar tissue - but another type of fibrous tissue that has built up in my knee and it typically goes away on it's own eventually. I have been stretching my knee every single freaking day for 7 months. Has anyone else had this problem with ridiculously slow progress with ROM?

Crow
September 22, 2006 1:12 PM

ELLEN. I also tore my ACL and am getting surgery soon. My doctor told me the best exercise is riding a bike. He also said that with good physio I can return to sports for sure by the 6 month mark. Hope that helps you.

Jason
September 25, 2006 8:54 AM

I'm 30 and tore my ACL in April 2006 and had surgery in May. Its been only 4 months and my recovery has been great. I don't have full range of motion as someone else had asked, but it is very close. I can almost kneel completely down, and am just slightly off from full locking extension. For those looking to get this surgery, make sure to do your rehab. Rehab will get you back fast like it has for me. The pain was very minimal for me.

15yearold
September 26, 2006 2:03 PM

I had ACL surgery six days ago. I'm currently not on any heavy medication; just ibuprofen. I have a very hard tiem bending my knee at all, but i found that an exercise bike is helpful. Slowly pedal backwards until your weak knee is stretched, but comfortable. Hold it, then SLOWLY pedal forwards to release. soon you'll feel able to pedal all the way around.

Fred
September 27, 2006 4:10 PM

I am 63 years old and I tore the ACL and PCL and Meniscus. The Dr. said that older individuals don't need to have the ACL repaired because they don;t use t that much. I am very active and I was wondering what you thought are about something like this. I was told with the ACL surgery, my knee would be stiff because of my age. I was also told without the surgery my knee would be stiff. I would like to know your thought or if anyone else my age has experienced any of this. Thanks!

Karen
September 28, 2006 7:47 AM

I just had ACL surgery on Sept. 21st, so I'm 7 days post-op. I orginally injured my right knee skiing back in 1993. My upper body went one way and below my right knee went the other way. I heard the pop and had slight pain. Swelling was minimal and my knee was weaker but with walking, weightlifting and bike riding all seemed fine. Then in 2002 injured it again, much worse. Heard the pop, swelling was much greater and the knee was slightly unstable. Bike riding, weightlifting and walking helped but my knee was not the same. More recently, Oct 2005 was doing my hobby racing RC boats. It began to rain and a friend got his trailer and truck stuck in the mud. I bunch of us hopped up on the back bumper to try to bounce the truck out of the mud. My fiance noted people might get hurt, off the truck and we'll tow it out. I just jumped about two feet, off to the right onto soft grass and heard the infamous pop. This time my knee seemed to catapult me at the sound of the pop, in the opposite direction. I fractured the tibia, tore the meniscus, tore my ACL and screwed up my knee cap. The pain was immediate and intense and this time, the swelling came on fast and my knee was twice the size of the other knee. My fiancee took me right to the ER. The next day I picked a sergeon who did sports injuries and came very well recommened by people I knew. First he drained two big vials of blood and fluid from my knee. Next was surgery to repair my torn meniscus and now I just had the ACL replacement surgery. A cadaver piece was used. He also did a lateral release and cleaned up scar tissue from the meniscus surgery. I've got relatively low pain except after physical therapy, when my knee feels lots of pain about an hour after PT. Rehab is definately the key to recovery. I have always been very active and involved in sports all my life. The span of time between the meniscus surgery and the ACL surgery was 11 months. During that time I tried to stay as active as possible, but I was definately limited to simply walking (in pain with not much stability in my knee) and not much else. I knew I couldn't live the rest of my life like this, so I chose to have the ACL surgery. I can really feel the ACL there now, where before I couldn't. At this point, skiing is a pasttime. I did it well, but I'm not going to risk this again. My "bad" knee is going to be stronger than my "good" knee and I'm looking forward to getting back into the swing of things soon. My doctor and physical therapist are very happy with my recovery. They say I'm not a challenge and boring because I'm healing fast. My big issue is getting back on track with my knee and loosing the additional 40 pounds I gained between the meniscus surgery and my ACL surgery. Onward and upward! It can only get better!

Michelle
October 2, 2006 5:35 PM

I am 15 years old. I tore my ACL in July and had surgery in August. It will be 8 weeks this Friday. I knew this would be a tough recovery, but know one could have prepared me for the pain the next few months would have brought me. I think I have cried more these last couple of weeks than I have in my whole life. I am currently working on getting range of motion back. It is the worst. Nothing comes easy. I get to what I think is a good measurement, and they say "5 more". It is physically and mentally draining. I'm sure there is light at the end of the tunnel, but there's no glimse of it yet. God Bless anyone who experiences this injury!!

Erich
October 2, 2006 9:47 PM

I just tore my ACL last week (Oct 26th) playing basketball. I am leaning toward the cadaver surgery, but want some feed back. With the closures of a lot of these doner banks recently by the Center of Disease Control, I am a little skeptical of the doner graff. Please give me your experience and feed back.

Erich
October 4, 2006 9:31 PM

Who would recommend Allografts? I am torn (no pun intended) wheter to get the allograft or the hamstring graft. I am worried about the graft not taking or getting an infection from it.

Bryne
October 5, 2006 9:50 AM

I have had two surgeries over the past two years. The first one was to repair a torn meniscus and the second was the reconstructive acl. I still can't completely lock my knee and when I sit for a long period of time, it's very difficult for me to...uncurl? my leg from that position. I usually have to press my hand on the knee and slowly try to make it not so bad so that I can at least walk right. I do some jogging and of course, lots of stretching before and after. I was wondering if anyone who has had this kind of surgery has the same problems. Also, any excercises you could reccomend would be welcome. I guess I'm just worried because it's been so long and sometimes (specially after a long day of walking) the pain in my knee is just unbearable.

leta
October 6, 2006 7:32 PM

i tore my acl last nov. just had surgery two months ago. things are going good its just, i wont ot go back playing sofball so bad! but i just dont know how long it would take. i already missed volleyball and basketball! it really sucks!

kristen muller
October 11, 2006 4:28 PM

i tore my acl, mcl and my meniscus skiiing in January...i had surgery my senior spring break of highschool :(....bryne i know exactly what you are talking about it is very hard for me to "uncurl" my knee after sitting for a long time... i tried keeping it strait while i sat down but then it hurts the other way as well...my dad got a total knee replacement and his advise is just keep it moving...even a little wiggle helps sometimes when you cant move for a while...this summer i went to hawaii and was stuck on a plane and that was the worst part. So just move it as much as possible. Good luck!

Kristen
October 15, 2006 10:44 AM

I shredded my ACL playing Varsity Tennis in late August and am now scheduled for surgury in mid November. I guess I'm just worried I'll be in excruciating pain and won't be able to feel ok for a really long time. Good luck to the rest of you and your various problems :o)

Gabby
October 17, 2006 3:24 AM

I've just spent the last hour reading all the comments. It has been very helpful. But I have some questions, particularly for young women athletes who play competitive soccer. My 17-year-old daughter had a collison with a goalie on a breakaway 8 days ago. On-site diagnosis was MCL. MRI 3 days later revealed torn ACL and OS said Grade II MCL. He recommended surgery with hamstring autograph. During pre-op today, he is now diagnosing Grade III MCL and now recommends allograph to repair the ACL and he plans to surgically repair the MCL too. He is the best OS in town and repairs our elite high school and college athletes. BUT, I am concerned about the allograph, especially as daughter has scholarship to play soccer in college. I have read, on this site, many young athletes who used allograph. Any advice appreciated!

Dave
October 17, 2006 4:53 AM

Just had ACL repair on 10/10/06. This is my second ACL repair in 8 years, thanks to my large dog. Surgery took 1.5 hrs, it started at 9:30 am and I was back home by 3:30 pm. I worked the knee out quite a bit prior to surgery and I was able to start walking on it 3 days after surgery without crutches. Biggest complaint is shin-splints on steroids, my shin is very sore. I stopped meds on the second day and went to Tylenol due to extreme itching and nausea from the pain meds. All and all, in comparision to my first surgery where I was in the hospital overnight and had to wear a brace for quite a while, this is a dream. It's a week later and I am back to work. Next stop, physical therapy....joy.

Philippe Farrugia
October 17, 2006 1:23 PM

Hello everyone, I was just wondering if anyone knew of advantages/disadvantages of replacing your acl with your hamstring vs patella tendon? (Stability, long term, etc) Any help would be greatly appreciated, Phil

corinna
October 17, 2006 7:59 PM

I just tore my ACL about 6 weeks ago playing soccer....knee bent the wrong direction and i felt a snap! (not good) so i had surgery oct 9, 06 (with the cadavar ACL and fixed lateral and medial miniscus repairs) and now i am supposed to do physical therapy at home until I go in the first time. I can to the leg lifts and muscle flexes, but I cannot bend my knee back...is this normal? Or should I just endure the pain and bend it. I am just afraid that i will damage it more, esp being so soon after surgery. advice wouldld be MUCH appreciated :)

corinna
October 17, 2006 8:03 PM

in response to Gabby, I had the alograft and it seems to work wonderfully! I also have a scholarship to play at school. the Dr's know what they are doing, and they test for all sorts of things, so the risk is not as high. the advantages of cadavar vs. others are that there is not as much pain (as ive had none since the first night), and less incisions, and there is no hamstring damage that has to be trained back to health as well. hope it helped a little!

Marie
October 18, 2006 5:37 PM

Hello Everyone, This my first time here. I see people updating comments daily! I have question, for 3 months now, I have been diagnosed w/ patellar femoral syndrome. Doing all therapy, taking anti-flammatory, and so forth. Don't seem to get better. My knees aren't straight, knee caps face inward a little. I dance Latin and Ballet (hobby only) But stopped. Anyone have any tips, hopes, suggestions, just doesn't seem I'll ever dance. Am supposed to build vm muscles but sure not happening...anyone gone through this before?

Kim
October 19, 2006 1:14 PM

Hi there, I had Patellar Tendon ACLR just over two months ago now. I was strongly recomended by my surgeon to have the patellar tendon reconstruction over the cadaver or hamstring because I am very active. The hamstring has been shown to stretch over time in some studies and the cadaver tissue has to be cleaned and processed so much that the tissue breaks down a bit. Your own tissue also integrates into your body much more strongly than does the tissue from someone else. That being said, there are so many differing opinions out there about which type of reconstructive surgery is best. If you can't decide, go with what your doctor does most. He/she will be best at it.

Theresa
October 19, 2006 9:11 PM

My 16 yr old daughter tore her acl in a soccer game on 10/10/2006. She is going to physical therapy and we see the dr in 2 weeks to see where she stands. We are going to go ahead with surgery. She is a standout sprinter for her high school track team, setting records in her sophomore year and making states indoor and spring. She was looking forward to an outstanding junior year indoor and outdoor track season. She is also an excellent soccer player, also playing travel soccer - indoor and spring. Does anyone know if it is possible to return to running form in 4-5 months - that is when spring track begins, travel soccer the same? She is very physically fit and a hard worker so I know she will do whatever it takes. I just am looking for someone who can give her hope - she is just devastated. She was planning on running and playing soccer in college - but now feels that won't be a possiblity. I am so afraid she will fall into a depression, she is so sad. Thanks for any hope anyone can give!

Tbone
October 20, 2006 7:58 AM

I tore my ACL at football I'm getting surgery on Nov 30th I wanna be back for State Werstling tourny in February is there any way I'll be able to or is the ACL going to get torn again

Nancy
October 20, 2006 10:47 AM

Dear Theresa: I am a 40 year old mom who tore her ACL on March 12th, 2006 down hilling skiing. Had rehab after the wrong surgery and had my ACL replaced on May 5th. I returned to work 5 days later and have a job that is very active. I too thought that water skiing and down hill skiing were in my distant past. However, it is a matter of mind over matter. I am still in the healing process, but my knee feels 100%. Exercise Exercise Exercise is all I can say. Your recovery is based on you and your attitude. You can work through the pain, therapy, and be back on your feet in no time. I am going to be fitted for a special brace in December and plan to hit the hills on February 1, 2007. Anyone who is highly active should have no problem with a complete recovery. Don't give up. You will be amazed at your body and the ability to recover (even for us older folks at 40!! ha ha) 99.9% is mind over matter - just remind yourself of that - you will be active again. Nancy

Haylie Ann DeWitt
October 20, 2006 5:49 PM

wow yeah i had my ACL surgery last wednesday, im 16 and im a huge soccer play and Fast-Pitch player...i made all state for soccerim only a junior which is a good thing..but the rehab is definantly hard i started rehab the day after surgery and its my second week and im already walking a bit(with doc's promission of course)this is definantly one of the most gruling things ive ever had to do.

Brandyn Powers
October 23, 2006 12:50 AM

Hello, on May 3rd, 2006 I was struck from behind by a car as I was walking down the road. Other then a couple of fracturded vertabras a ruptured (which means torn completly in half) ACL was my only long turm injury. At first my doctor thought i wasn't going to need surgery. I'm active but not sports active. I am a auto painter, so not much usage of ACL. But my knee gave out on me a couple of times so the doc thought i should go on ahead with the surgery. So after a couple of months of phycal therpy to stregthen my knee(the stonger the knee befor surgery the stonger and quicker rehab time after surgery)I am finaly having surgery tomorrow morning.(oct 23,2006) My doctor wanted to do a hamstring graph so it would be less rehab and pain but he did warn me and you should do as well if you have the same graph. Not to over do your self with the hamstring you don't feel much pain and the knee feels better then it already is so becarfull of what you do. If you over do your self you can do nervdamage. I've spent days researching and studying on ACL reconstructions. and asked my doctor everything I could think of which you should do as well. Well wish me luck.

Betsy K.
October 23, 2006 7:24 AM

The more I read, the more confused i get! I am probably on the older side compared to most of you. I am 48, partially tore my ACL 6 years ago and managed to ski and play tennis with a brace only(no surgery at the time). 6 weeks ago, blew out my ACL completely just getting out of the car! In the past 6 weeks my knee has given out 4 times with simple movement. MRI showed a complete ACL tear and meniscus tear. I am scheduled for surgery next week. My doctor is recommending the cadaver graft, but he will do the hamstring if I don't want to use cadaver tissue.(Patellar is not an option for me because of my age, he feels the patellar tendon will be worn more and I may end up with anterior knee pain) I'm obviously concerned about using a cadaver graft vs. my own. I'm trying to weigh all the risks and benefits of each. Are there any older folk(like me) out there, who are active, had allograft surgery and have some advice??? I would love to hear from individuals who are also a few years post-op, to hear about long-term results? Thanks so much everyone.

Shay
October 23, 2006 6:10 PM

I tore my ACL the exact same way. Reading this article just gave me deja vu. I was playing indoor soccer with some of my guy friends and planted with my left trying to turn to my right and my foot stayed while the rest kept going. I tore my ACL MCL and Meniscus. It pretty much sucked. I started college this year and was recruited to play soccer but because of the incident I had to red shirt. But its now 6 months after surgery and my knee feels great.I also had the hamstring graft and I'm starting to slowly play soccer again. Those were some rough months so I feel ya. I just hope i dont do it again.

Brian
October 24, 2006 1:10 PM

I'm a 43 year old male and tore my ACL doing a spin kick in Taekwondo back in late August. Surgery (hamstring graft) is scheduled for November 1st...next week! I'm a little nervous, but do not doubt my decision. I'm in good shape, and really don't want to be hobbled at this age. Surgery was really my only option if I want to continue doing the things I like such as taekwondo, water skiing, shooting hoops, etc. I plan to log on often, and thanks to everyone here for sharing their stories. -Brian

Troy Coleman
October 24, 2006 5:42 PM

Im getting acl surgrey in like 2 weeks im fucking scared. i am scared i wont be abel to bike again even though i can bike with my torn acl i just hope my rehab goes good and it heals so i can snowboard and do all my normal sports

Kevin Ng
October 25, 2006 12:05 PM

I torned my ACL early May 2006 during a basketball tournement and i was in complete pain. I went to the doctor and he helped me out to do an MRI which i had to wait for 3 months. The results came in as a torn ACL. I went through x-ray and now i'm waiting to see a knee specialist next week. I hope to get my surgery done as soon as possible, which I do not have a set date yet, so I can play my favourite sports. *sigh* Canada is slow in helping patients.

Bill
October 25, 2006 2:00 PM

Don't let age put you off - it's your fitness level that counts. I did both ACL's playing rugby two years ago at 47 years young. The left was done September 2005 & the right in August 2006, both using hamstring grafts. 12 weeks into rehab & I am back doing gentle jogging, skipping,etc. Listen to your physio & do the exercises regularly. Don't rush things, you will only suffer set backs. I thought I was ahead of the game after the 1st op, only to tear my weakened hamstring & it set me back about a month. My physio has been great & given me a full timetable of exercises, which I am sticking to.I wanted to learn to ski before I hit 50! My surgeon promised to have me ready for the 2007 season, my holiday is booked & its given me something to aim at. My surgeon does not see any reason why 2 ACL repairs should stop me from doing sports. He also thihks the two best sports in the world are skiing & rugby football!

Diana
October 25, 2006 2:52 PM

I too tore my ACL in soccer in August. Like Kevin, I waited forever for an MRI, but I've been lucky since. Saw the surgeon last week and will have surgery Nov 16 -- wow. NOw all I have to do is psych myself up for it. (Canuk, too)

Gabby
October 26, 2006 6:55 AM

After reading some of the comments, I feel lucky to live in Midwest U.S. where we did not have to wait for an MRI and surgery. My daughter injured her knee in a collision with a goalie in a league soccer game on Oct. 8. She had an MRI on Oct. 11, which showed a torn ACL and MCL, and surgery on Oct. 18. She started physical therapy on Oct. 20. Her surgeon and physical therapist believe she will rehab in 4 to 6 months as she is in great shape and very motivated. From what I am reading, hard work and a good attitude are the keys to rehabilitating from the injury. My daughter's goal is to play some minutes of basketball on senior night in February, high school soccer in April-May and college soccer next fall. While we would love for her to get to play some BB this year, our eyes are on the big picture--college soccer. I have found the posts from high school and college soccer players who have returned to the game most encouraging!

Lisa
October 26, 2006 9:02 AM

Gabby-what kind of graft did your daughter get and was/is she in a lot of pain??

Gabby
October 26, 2006 9:21 AM

Lisa--My daughter had an allograft (cadaver) tendon. The doctor planned to use her hamstring, but changed his mind when he found that her MCL was torn from the tibia, making it a bit more difficult to harvest a tendon from her hamstring. (he repaired the MCL too.) I was a bit concerned at first, but then found (on this web site, by talking to other young athletes who had allografts, and more research) that all grafts have their advantages and disadvantages and the end result is that hamstring, patella and allografts all have about the same success rate. Our surgeon likes the hamstring and allograft. Other surgeons like the patella. We had two players on a club soccer team tear their ACLs in Spring 2005 and both had scholarships to play in college. One had a patella and the other had a hamstring. Both re-tore their graft (which is pretty unusual, I think)! The one who had the hamstring switched to an allograft, and it has held up after two years of college soccer. My daughter was in pain (from the surgery) at first. She is still on her pain meds, but getting around well on crutches just one week after surgery. She does her exercises at home (twice a day) faithfully, goes to the physical therapist 2-3 times a week, and ices. She sees her surgeon again on Monday.

Lisa
October 26, 2006 9:44 AM

Thanks for the info! Our surgeon likes to use the patella graft and I was told to go with what the surgeon does the most. I've heard of people retearing the graft, but it usually is because they returned to sport too early. My daughter just plays varsity high school-she'd like to play in her senior year and then just play intramurals in college. Is your daughter back in school yet? My daughter is having hers the 20th of November because she hates to miss school & this was the least amount she would miss. She tore it 2nd preseason game(bummer), but we didn't know it was torn until a few weeks later because she didn't have the pain or hear the pop and the doctor and trainers told her her ligaments were intact. Boy what a shock when the MRI showed a completely torn ACL. Good Luck to you & your daughter. Mine is scared for the surgery & I am more scared for her recovery!

Barbara
October 27, 2006 10:23 PM

Brian, Wow, sounds like me, except I am a 40 year old female. I tore my ACL, partial mcl and possible meniscus skiing last March. I have surgery on the 9th of Nov. And for the same reasons, I still want to ski, hike, rollerblade, waterski, play ball with my kids, etc. I made it through the summer with MUCH rehab and feel really strong now. Although it has been bothering me more the past few weeks than it has in a long time. I'm pretty sure I injured it more. I'm really nervous about the surgery, but I feel I'm ready. Especially with the new pain I'm having. I chose the allograph because that's what my doctor recommend for me. Let me know how it goes for you :) Remember...take the drugs... Barbara

Brian
October 28, 2006 11:49 AM

Barbara, I'll let you know how it goes after Wednesday. I plan on keeping a little journal and I'll post here regularly. This site has helped me know what to expect so I can prepare. Also, I'm trying to keep this operation in perspective. Yes, I know it's major knee surgery, but there are so many WORSE things that I could be having. My cousins boy, a 22 year old young man in college, was in a car accident this summer and is now paralyzed from the chest down. He has kept his head up, and is progressing well considering the circumstances. Compared to the mental and physical challenges he is facing, this is a walk in the park. So, I'm going to stay optimistic, and meet this thing head-on. Plus, I'll have LOTS of incentive to visit the health club over the winter, and that's a good thing because I tend to slack off a bit during the holidays ;) -Brian

Barbara
October 29, 2006 12:34 PM

Brian, thanks for the perspective... Good luck Wed Barbara

bati
October 29, 2006 5:05 PM

heyhey... i got an ACL surgery on my left about almost 6 months ago.. and everythin is seems fine... but my left thigh mucles arent as big as my right thigh mucles...and i heard i wouldnt b able to play if the muscles strength arent the same .... is that true? !!

Cookie
October 29, 2006 10:37 PM

Gabby, Lisa, and everyone that has been discussing which kind of graft to use...my daughter who tore her acl in Feb. 2006..playing H.S. Basketball at age 15..no popping ..just came to a sudden jump stop and went down...we knew the drill since another girls had it happen on our team 6 days earlier...how bizzaar..right?? she had the patella mid one third of her tendon taken from her own knee to use for her reconstruciton...since her doctor...who does all kinds...recommended that...and then I reseached it and found out what he said was true...that Hamstring Graphs aren't as strong...plus they could permenetely weaken/damage your hamstring in some cases... and the cadeavors grafts are not as strong..and could be carring bacteria..etc....so since my young daughter ..who is now 16...and 8 months post op..is just getting ready to re-enter the world of girls H.S. Basketball...was told to use her patella autograph...even though it makes the front of your knee really sore for a long time...it does in time completely heal....and who ever asked if you have to have both knees strong before returning to sports..the answer is yes...my daughter has taken 3 Biodex Tests to see if the injured knee and the uninvolved knees strength deficiet is less than 15%...which is hard since your are strengthening usually both knees when you work out..no matter whether you try not to work the good knee or not...it still seems to get bigger and the repaired knee has a hard time "catching up".....but my daughter is determined...1st test and 2nd her deficeit was not great..like 40%...but this passed week...after she had been working her quads and hams..more after her 6 month check up...she did really good...like a 19% deficeit...and we go to the Dr. tomorrow that did the surgery to see if he releases...her for sports...since conditioning starts tomorrow I sure hope so...hang in there ...it does get better and we are lucky that it isn't worse....the person that asked about running "track" in 4 to 5 months post op......don't know if i would risk it...but they do say that straight forward running isn't stressful on your knee...but jumping..like long jump etc...and turning...cutting ...is bad also..and soccer and basketball are the worse sports on knees...So I'll be praying everytime I see her playing...but trying to remember...she could have or still could hurt her knee tripping over a pebble...but she wouldn't have near as much fan as playing basketball....take care.

MsNomer
October 30, 2006 10:34 AM

I snapped my ACL in two 10 years ago when I was 44. The old fart doctor at the time told me that since I wasn't going to be skiing that I didn't need the replacement surgery. For 10 years I've suffered with lack of stability and episodes of my knee falling out. Is 54 too old to have an ACL replacement?

Jessicat
October 30, 2006 9:51 PM

Hi everyone, I've been reading some of the entries over the last month. I tore my ACL and meniscus on Oct 1st. I was out dancing with friends and my knee buckled out out of nowhere, although I use to play sports. I saw the on the doctor a few days, but only recently started doing leg excercises. At first it was really frustrating because it seemed impossible to fully straigten or completely bend my knee. But each day gets a little easier and a little less painful. However I do feel clicking or grinding when I fully bend the knee. Anyone know what that is and if it's normal? I have surgery on Nov 14th and am really nervous. I'm trying to stay positive and get myself mentally prepared for the physical therapy. I find it hard to keep with the excercises since I'm not as active (in sports) as I use to be. I wish I had that motivating factor! Well just wanted to share my experience so far. I'll be checking in soon!

Jessicat
October 30, 2006 10:02 PM

Hi everyone, I've been reading some of the entries over the last month. I tore my ACL and meniscus on Oct 1st. I was out dancing with friends and my knee buckled out out of nowhere, although I use to play sports. I saw the on the doctor a few days, but only recently started doing leg excercises. At first it was really frustrating because it seemed impossible to fully straigten or completely bend my knee. But each day gets a little easier and a little less painful. However I do feel clicking or grinding when I fully bend the knee. Anyone know what that is and if it's normal? I have surgery on Nov 14th and am really nervous. I'm trying to stay positive and get myself mentally prepared for the physical therapy. I find it hard to keep with the excercises since I'm not as active (in sports) as I use to be. I wish I had that motivating factor! Well just wanted to share my experience so far. I'll be checking in soon!

Robert
October 31, 2006 1:16 PM

Jessicat, I'm a physical thearpy student at college and I wish you the very best of luck and I encourage you to stick with your excercises before surgery. When I tore my ACL the doctor and everything I read said that it is acutually JUST as imporatant to excercise your muscles pre-surgery as it is afterwards. You may not think that it is doing anything, but it is actually creating more muscle memory and stimulating the growth hormones in those muscles. This will defenitly help in the long run to speed up you recovery process (later you will be doing ANYTHING you can to just speed up the healing). So, if you keep on working at it and setting goals for yourself, then i'm sure you will be just fine! I wish you the very best of luck with your upcoming surgery! :)

Robert
October 31, 2006 1:26 PM

MsNomer - My dad had two ACL replacements in his 40's and they went fine! However, I do know that the older you get, the longer it will take to recover. Since the body isn't producing as many growth cells as before, the recovery process will be very long and very hard, but that isn't to say that it cannot happen at all. With the right physical therapy program and dedication and determination on your part your knee will be as good as new in no time (6-8 months probably). The type of ACL replacement will probably have to be a from a cadaver rather than hamstring or patella. If you are having a lot of trouble just walking, i really hope that you consider this amazing opportunity that medical science has created for us! I wish you the best in your decision. :) Prayerfully, Bob

MsNomer
November 1, 2006 6:26 AM

Thanks, Robert for the comment. I'm having an MRI next Wednesday to see what's up with the knee. I don't look forward to any surgery, yet I'd like to be able to do more than I can right now. Thinking of walking on ice this winter scares me to death.

Denise
November 1, 2006 10:52 PM

I had surgery on my ACL last week. I took a look at the scars on my knee. I have to admit that having the surgery and dealing with the recovery is hard on me. I am very depressed becasue I can't believe i'm going through this. I don't want to cry because i'm afraid i wont stop. i'm afraid my knee (leg extention) wont be the same. this surgery was bigger than I thought it would be. I'm trying to stay postive, but it's hard. I have always been flexable and now i dont know if my knee will ever bend back. i have no one to talk to. I have no one to cry to. I do have friends, but most ofthem give me the, you'll be alright speech. I hate that this happened. Sorry to bum anyone one out. It's the first time I'm writing about my ordeal. I do hope anyone going through can find solace in their support system.

Zuly
November 2, 2006 9:50 AM

Denise, I'm sorry but I have to agree with your friends. I felt the same way you did. I tore my ACL in an exhibition soccer game in Aug. that would determine whether I would make the new professional Women's Indoor Team in Atlanta. It happened with maybe 10 minutes left to play. I had my surgery on the 18th of this month and it is hard. This is my second surgery on this knee and both times I have felt like my knee will never be the same. Although I am still on my crutches I just got back to work, yes 2 weeks after my surgery, I am currently ending my first week of rehab and although I have cried of anger and pain this week, in the end my knee feels better. Just stick with it and learn to deal with the pain because the more dedication you give it the better you will be in the end. I promise!

Minnie
November 3, 2006 7:51 AM

Dennis as Zuly mentioned, it will get better. The most important thing is determination and patience. I have not had any similar surgeries but my daughter has gone through two surgeries since March of this year. My daughter is 15 and a very active competitive soccer player. As a freshman she was the lead scorer for her Vasity team, made first Team all County and came out on Sports Illustrated. Unfortunately life has a way of giving us a reality check. Two weeks after she came out on Sports Illustrated she was playing for her Club Team and fell the wrong way. She not only tore her ACL, but her MCL, partial meniscus and her patella tendon. She had to undergo the first surgery to repair the patella tendon (which was shreaded) and MCL first. After 3 and half months she had undergo the ACL cadaver replacement surgery. She has surprised not only her surgeon but her therapist as well with the determination to get back playing soccer. After 7 and half months from the accident she is already running, jumping and doing drills. The doctor says if she continues this way she will be playing in December or January. Please be strong, as I told my daughter when this happened "This too shall pass". May God Bless you and give you strength every day to get stronger. Minnie

Brandon
November 4, 2006 10:02 AM

This is a post just to encourage those who had acl surgery and are eager to get back into playing sports. I had acl reconstructive surgery on May 7 on my right knee. Its been about 6 months since then and I have been playing volleyball for about 4 weeks. I always ice it down after playing to control any swelling. I've been using a hinged off-the-shelf McDavid neoprene brace to play. The only problem/pain I have is occasional slight anterior knee pain (which I was told in normal for awhile) and knee stiffness. Once I warm-up, my knee feels great. I have an intramural basketball season coming up in a couple of months but I have already to started to practice a bit in between volleyball. Currently, I only work out my legs about 2 times a week using various exercises (resistance, plyometrics, sport-specific drills). Since I am actively playing sports and additional 2-3 times a week, I felt I didn't want to overload my knee just yet. For basketball I have a custim Cti2 brace since the sport is more rigorous and the style I play as a guard is a lot of driving to the basket. All in all, I feel my knee improving in comfort and overall strength every week. Since I studied kinesiology for my undergrad b.s. I was able to take the exercises the PT's gave me during my last session and customized it with things I knew would help me and it's helped a lot. If anyone has any questions on my progress, please feel free to contact me. I hope everything goes well for all of you. God bless.

Brian
November 5, 2006 9:38 AM

Hi Everyone, As an update and encouragement to the above poster. I just had mine done on November 1st with a Hamstring graft. Well, the first two days post-op I just didn't feel well because of the antesteshia, but have been up and around since. Friday I started my exercises, and am already seeing progress. I have some pretty decent flex (70 - 80 degrees), can control my quads, and the pain is minimal. I'm only taking one pain killer/day now at night and the rest of the time I'm sticking to Ibuprofen. I refuse to let this injury get me down. I'm going to the doc next Wednesday (1 week post-op) and will be having my first physical therapy appt. on Thursday. I'm ready and willing! Like many folks have said above in all sorts of ways, keep a stiff upper lip and you'll be just fine! I'm already bearing some weight on the injured leg, and can walk with one crutch which the doc said is just fine to do if I'm able. I plan on posting some progress reports as I go...I'm sure I'll have some downer days but they will be just that, ONE day. Pretty small potatoes in the big picture as I plan on feeling progressively better each and every week. In fact, I'm going to the gym today with my wife just to do some light upper body and keep myself in shape for the upcoming PT and to keep motivated. Hang in there, and talk to you soon! -Brian

eRIN
November 5, 2006 10:00 AM

Reading this was kind of creepy because I injured my knee EXACTLY the same way, only it was my left knee and I tore my meniscus too. I have an appointment with the sports med surgeon this Thursday so we'll see what's to come!

robbie
November 5, 2006 3:00 PM

hello everyone i am a 15 year old boy and i tore my acl in august. it was at football practice dot no how i did it but i did i was wondering if they absolutely have to drill through growth plates to repair it and if there is any hope that i will be back for basketball next year?

Ervin McDaniel
November 5, 2006 7:31 PM

I love everyone's comments. I go in for surgery on 11/8 for an ACL, a torn lateral meniscus & a torn medial meniscus. This is quite encouraging since I do not know what to expect. Great site Adam! KEEP IT UP!

Joe B.
November 6, 2006 5:34 AM

I tore my ACL recently, I did it playing softball. I hit the firtbase bag rolled my ankle and my twisted one way and the rest of my leg the opposite way. Well I had surgery last thursday. The first couple days are killer because you are so groggy from the medication. Yesterday I could actually get up on my own using my cruches of course. I will go to my post op soon and stary physical therapy. It sounds like this is going to be a long fought road. But I will try my hardest and be strong.

Tara
November 6, 2006 10:28 AM

I had ACL replacement in AUgust. I tore my ACL in 1994 and finally got it fixed in 2006. I was so excited about the prospects of getting backon the soccer field and getting back to my more physical life. I had spent 12 years using crutches off and on and a brace anytime I was going to be on my feet. The doctor and I chose to use and allograft as my tendons and ligaments seem to be unusually elastic and it would not behove me to use an overly elstic replacement. The surgery went very well and I was in little pain after. As a matter of fact I took no pain killers at all after I was woken up. I was walking with a brace the day after surgery and started strenghtening exercises within 2 weeks. Then Things went bad. 3 weeks after the operation I fell down the stairs at my apartments. I finally got the MRI done on Nov 3. It is not good. One of the screws is not quite where it should be and I have torn cartilage and the ACL is in disrepair. I have an apointment next week to decide the fate of my knee. I am currently on crutches and in an imobilizer and this is getting quite frustrating. Has anyone else had to have thier ACL done twice, let alone the second time being before you even fully healed from the first?

Elena
November 6, 2006 1:47 PM

I trashed out my ACL and medial meniscus in Sept. while on a scuba trip to Indonesia. After discussing options with a sports med surgeon we decided it would be bet to go with an allograft from a tissue bank. Surgery was on Oct.24th, two weeks ago tomorrow. 50% of the meniscus was removed and the articular cartiledge behind the knee was cleaned up too. Prior to surgery I read on line about pre-op PT and started doing those excersizes to keep my muscles strong. I think that was escential in my post-op recovery. My surgeon and Phys. Therapist gave me excersizes to do imediately following surgery and for the week before my first follow-up. I did them religiously. My brace was unlocked to 10 degrees from full extension at that time and my crutches were ditched 4 days post-op. PT is going well and I have reached many of the 6 week PT goals already. I do wear the brace as well as thw support TED stocking which I think is esential for muscle support. I know I have a long road ahead, but by following all the PT advise and taking care not to push it and re-injure I am confident it will be strong again and I will be back to diving in about 8 - 9 months. I am a 48 y.o female.

Danielle
November 7, 2006 4:56 PM

Hey yall...I'm Digit...I torn my ACL on Friday the 13th in January 2006, which was a horrible day...I did it in a high school basketball game and I was airborn and the girl behind me pushed me and fell on my knee as it crashed into the floor...Painful, painful painful...I had to wait to have surgery about 2 months after it happened due to all the swelling...I have been in theraphy for it since March and I am no where near being done...11 months later and NO scar tissue has begun to break up...I am starting to feel like this does not happen to everyone and that my rehab is taking way to long and I am getting no true progress...Does anybody else have this problem and when will I be 100% back to normal...I did pitch this fall for softball and it felt fine, but now back in basketball and it feels like it did when it happened...I think its all the running and cutting and stuff, but I just want it to be normal again!!! Uhhhhh...Thanks for listening...See yea...Toodles!!

Danielle
November 7, 2006 4:58 PM

The only good thing about my surgery was that my Doctor did not make me where a brace after I began to walk normal again...I still have not had one to play sports yet, but I debating on if I should get one...Does it help any in sports for anybody?

Danielle
November 7, 2006 5:00 PM

Also meniscus tears are not fun either I torn both and had to have them both stitched...DO NOT WISH FOR THIS!!

auckhs
November 8, 2006 10:48 AM

hi elena. you and i have one thing in common. oct 24, 2006 was my knee operation. i tore my ACL too while playing basketball. but this accident happened 10 years ago. after that, i did my own therapy because i was not ready for a surgery yet. i survived 10 years with an unstable knee that kept on injuring from time to time, i think around 13 recurrent injuries in 10 years. until lately after gathering enough courage-10 years in the making-i had it done-ACL reconstruction. so far so good. i just follow doctor's/PT's advice and do regular therapy and challenge my knee as tolerated. slowly my knees are growing stronger, muscles beginning to reawaken. i hope the same is true with yours. let us see who gets back to full recovery and regular activity first. take care.

Brian
November 9, 2006 1:47 PM

I'm 8 days post-op now. Surgeon looked at my knee yesterday and said everything was looking great. I have about 90 degrees of bend or more, I'm walking without my crutcthes, and only take the pain pill at night. First shower yesterday, felt glorious! Best shower I've ever had :) Going in for my first day of PT tomorrow, and really, I am looking forward to it. All who are struggling, hang in there, it gets better. Talk to you soon. -Brian

Eliot Lee
November 9, 2006 2:45 PM

**8.5 MONTHS (34 WEEKS) POST-OP** Welp, I've been out of physical therapy since July 2006 and I got full release from my surgeon on August 8, 2006. I've been very active in the last couple months...I hiked Mt.Chapin (12454 ft.) in the Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) - total ascent - 1,800 ft., the day after they closed Trail Ridge Rd., which meant an extra 5 hours, totaling close to 9 hours, of hiking back and forth to the Aspen Visitor Center. I've been snowshoeing and hiking long distances with my dog quite a few times since September 2006. I am going to be skiing for the first time since the accident and surgery next Friday at Eldora Ski Area where I got into the accident. The only problems I've confronted is a slight Patellar Tendonitis (in both my knees). But icing and extra Ipbrofin has soothed the pain. Keep up the good work, everyone! You can do it! :)

cj ballou
November 11, 2006 2:06 PM

i had my acl surgery last monday and im still in a lotof pain. i can walk around on crutches but it doesnt seem to be getting any easier with time

PK
November 11, 2006 10:27 PM

I tore my acl Aug. 21,and I still havn't had my surgery yet.can anybody tell me is that good are bad.

Jon
November 12, 2006 12:20 PM

I tore my ACL back in June. Surgery date is November 30th. I have been in "pre-hab" for the past few weeks to get as close to full motion back and reduce inflamation before the surgery. I can only hope that I can ditch the crutches as soon as possible and start the long road of gaining my strength back in P/T. Anyone have any tips?

IG
November 12, 2006 1:01 PM

I torn my ACL on July 1st. I am getting my surgery on the 16th. today I heard that ACL surgery is good for only 10 years and you would have to get it done again after 10 years, is that true? Can anyone answer this question? Thanks

Chris H.
November 13, 2006 10:45 AM

I injured my ACL last year playing Flag Football. I am having surgery on November 22nd. They are using my Hamstring to reconstruct the ACL. Has anyone not been able to play sports or saw a really huge difference in their abilities after the surgery when using their hamstrings? I also thought about going the Cadaver route. Has anyone had any problems using a Cadaver? Thank you for your time! Chris

carlos
November 13, 2006 12:18 PM

hi! anybody here who's 6 months post-op from ACL surgery (hamstring graft) ?? what sport activities (if any) have you so far been doing?? still any lingering problems on your knee?? thanks!

Eliot Lee
November 13, 2006 1:10 PM

"hi! anybody here who’s 6 months post-op from ACL surgery (hamstring graft) ?? what sport activities (if any) have you so far been doing?? still any lingering problems on your knee?? thanks!" I am more than six months out, actually about nine months out, and I've been able to do the following activities: * Hiking (2,000 ft. ascent, and many day hikes) * Snowshoeing * Alpine Skiing (first time since surgery on Nov 11, 2006) * Mountain Biking Good luck!

Doug
November 14, 2006 10:48 AM

I had ACL replacement surgery the last week of September (2006). I am still in the brace for normal daily activities, but take it off when lounging at home. Ditches crutches after the 3rd day with brace locked. Physical Therapy is tough but I push myself harder than they push me. Remember that pain is God's way of saying "quit doing that". You should never, ever hit the PAIN level, only discomfort in your exercises. The PT regime that I am on is from the military (Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio) and is 54 weeks long. Start is basic flexibility then on to strengthening and balance. I have allograph (cadaver) material as it is less invasive to your body, speeding up recovery. Take it by the day, take it slow, push yourself to the limits but not into the pain zone. Doug

Shona
November 14, 2006 1:15 PM

I fell at church on July 16, 2006. An MRI showed 3 weeks later that I had torn the ACL, MCL, and everything else that could possibly be torn. I made the decision to rehabilitate my knee and began therapy for 6 weeks. Soon as physical therapy ended, my knee has been declining for a couple of weeks now. I usually tire very easily now and can't seem to do everything I need to do now. Reading all the comments have been very helpful because I have become frustrated and depressed about my knee. I fear that I won't be able to go as much as I have in the past nor play sports with the children I work with daily. I have heard so many stories about this surgery and how painful it will be for me. I don't mind the pain though, if it will allow me to become active again. After reading your stories, I feel a little more confident about what will happen I am scheduled for surgery December 15, 2006. Hopefully, I can get through this and back to the many activites I was involved in previously.

Colleen
November 14, 2006 6:45 PM

hey everyone...i tore my acl cheerleading last year and had the reconstructive surgery using my hamstrings. i'm now 5 1/2 months post-op and plan to return to cheerleading when i'm 6 months post-op. My knee almost feels completely normal...my doctor said i'll be fine for full activies and able to go back to training for cheerleading and gymnastics. Of course i will slowly ease into it! I'm able to return to sports because i've worked really hard and the biggest difference i've noticed is my hamstrings. They are slowly getting stronger but it will probably take longer than six months to get them completely back to the way they were before. I'm able to return to cheerleading and gymnastics because i've worked really hard. I go to the gym everyday and do all of my knee exercises religiously. I am very happy and pleased with my decision to use my hamstring. It is more painful than using a Cadaver and it will take longer to completely strengthen my hamstrings. But if i could i wouldn't change my decision. To anyone that is concerned with returning to sports. You can do it. But you have to DO YOUR KNEE EXERCISES AND FOLLOW EVERYTHING YOUR DOCTOR SAYS!!! I know its frustrating. But you will be normal again. Good luck to anyone dealing with a knee injury!

Jim
November 14, 2006 9:36 PM

I just had my MRI reading yesterday, it shows a small impaction fracture (like pushing your thumb into a ping pong ball) in my femur behind the knee cap, and the acl is torn. I was checking the oil in my truck, I was leaning over the front, with my knees against my bumper and a vehicle backed up right into me. OUCH!! Never felt anything like that.. Anyways, my dr suggested that I need to find another line of work. I am in construction and usually walking steel, 100' to 300' in the air. Will my knee be reliable enough after surgery to continue my job? Its pretty dangerous and very hard on the body as it is, especially knees, hips, and shoulders. Im pretty healthy and athletic and in the last six years have definately noticed some wear and tear. I only have 19 years to go, hope I make it...

Brian
November 15, 2006 6:25 AM

I’m exactly 2 weeks post-op now and am making good progress. Only taking Ibuprofen now, am sleeping well, and do not have to wear the brace at night anymore. I have 120 degrees of motion, am doing 1 leg balancing activities while throwing/catching a ball, and also the PT has me biking 10 – 15 minutes every session. I also do this stuff on my own when not at PT. I had the hamstring graft, so that muscle is weak yet, but just yesterday I noticed it was a little less painful. Additionally, I was able to pull the light resistance band with my hamstring at PT, which I was unable to do before. Patience is key in this process, don’t expect the world overnight. I’m not saying you shouldn’t push yourself, but don’t get frustrated either if you feel things are going slowly. One day at a time, rather than looking weeks into the future, is the way to go. Celebrate the little victories, and appreciate progress. It’s keeping me going, and not once have I regretted the decision to have this done. Good luck, and I’ll post again next week. -Brian

Lisa
November 16, 2006 7:02 AM

My daughter goes in Monday morning to get her ACL reconstructed with the patella tendon. She is nice and strong going in with full range of motion and she has been strengthening her quads/hamstrings to prepare for surgery, so we are hopeful it will go as well as possible!! Will write back after and update-we are just ready for this to be over already as she tore it preseason soccer at the end of August.

Steven Phillips
November 19, 2006 1:23 PM

I had surgery on Oct. 20, 2006 for a torn ACL and miniscus tear. The injury occured during simple horseplay with my nephew, no contact involved, I basically overextended my knee. The first couple days after surgery were pretty intense, I could not find a comfortable position. I have been taking Lortab for the pain, it definitely helps although you have to be careful for it is "very" habit forming. I was given a full length leg brace that can be locked on the side to prevent bending the knee. I kept it locked all the time for the first week and slept with it also. The second week I was able to unlock it indoors at home, simply going from the couch to the frig. The important thing about keeping your leg straight is to allow your ligaments to heal while extended, if your leg is bent the majority of the time you will suffer greatly in physical therapy to straighten it out and return your flexibility. I began PT 2 weeks after my surgery with simple excercises to straighten the leg and begin rebuilding the calf and quad muscles. This is painful(somewhat) and time consuming, you feel like you are getting nowhere!, remember, it's one day at a time. I am now 4 weeks post surgery and continuing PT 3 days a week, I never wear my brace although I am very careful of what I get into, simply walking is it. I have done well enough that I am returning to work in week 5. I will be confined to a desk pretty much and only working 4 hours a day to start, it's important to stay motivated and you will get tired of sitting around-yes you will!! Good luck if you decide to have this procedure, and by all means have it done athroscopic.

Marcy
November 20, 2006 12:24 PM

I had ACL repair almost 10 yrs ago. I was jumping a dirtbike and hyper-extended my knee when I landed. I had the surgery where they took my patella tendon. It was a very painful surgery- and a painfull recovery. I did fully recover, and I even took up more sports (I surf) and I played Ice Hockey for awhile. Sometimes I would wear a brace, but usually only for hockey. But in the past month my knee has been hurting alot. I feel it is starting to weeken- even give out sometimes. Anybody know how long ACL repairs last? Hope it's not that!

Marcy
November 20, 2006 12:28 PM

by the way- nice pics- my knee has a 4" scar on the front from cutting me wide open!

Jeff
November 20, 2006 12:46 PM

Just plyed my first Flag Football game since my ACL Surgery 6/6/06... Knee felt fine, cutting was capable, full speed running and was even able to do spin moves to aviod getting flagged. The only thing I felt after the game was slight fatigue in the knee, which was expected. I used my patella tendon to repair my ACL. Initailly injured the ACL getting tackled playing Rugby. Woke up this AM and knee still feels fine. I have been running alot on the treadmill and doing squats along with other leg exercises since doctor cleared me a few months back. I would have to say the 90% of ACL recovery is mental... I knew I wanted to play football and be competitve at sports again so I set that goal and after yesterdays game I see the goal is in reach by years end if not sooner. Good luck with the recovery everyone and stay positive, set a goal for yourself and work hard to achieve it!

Jeff
November 20, 2006 12:46 PM

Just plyed my first Flag Football game since my ACL Surgery 6/6/06... Knee felt fine, cutting was capable, full speed running and was even able to do spin moves to aviod getting flagged. The only thing I felt after the game was slight fatigue in the knee, which was expected. I used my patella tendon to repair my ACL. Initailly injured the ACL getting tackled playing Rugby. Woke up this AM and knee still feels fine. I have been running alot on the treadmill and doing squats along with other leg exercises since doctor cleared me a few months back. I would have to say the 90% of ACL recovery is mental... I knew I wanted to play football and be competitve at sports again so I set that goal and after yesterdays game I see the goal is in reach by years end if not sooner. Good luck with the recovery everyone and stay positive, set a goal for yourself and work hard to achieve it!

shayne
November 21, 2006 9:09 PM

hi..i tore my acl and meniscis in my championship basketball game..deff one of the most awkward pains ive ever felt in my life..well im real scared for the surgery..wonderin if neone can tell me how the surgery is step by step thanks alot..my email is sk8ersae@sbcglobal.net thanks

Scott
November 23, 2006 4:20 AM

Hi Guys, I have a complete tear of my ACL and suspected damage to meniscis. I was wondering which type of surgery was best for someone doing sports such as football, tennis, snowboarding etc. Would it be Hamstring or Patella? Great photos by the way and I agree with Jeff a great deal of recovery is mental and also preparation before hand. I have heard that if you get you knee muscles in great shape prior to the op then it makes recovery a great deal easier. Look forward to hearing you opinions on my query. Scott

Jon Leon
November 24, 2006 12:07 PM

Hey my name is Jon Leon IM 17 years Old and i tore my Acl,Lateral Meniscis, and A grade 2 Mcl. I Did this During a football game while trying to make an open field taclke. I had a cadaber ligament put in as my new ACL. I really liked this method! I was Only on Crutches For 2 weeks and got to take the brace of at the 4 week mark. My recovery is going well and i will hopefully Get to return to sports as soon as i pass the biodex test and get cleared my Dr.

Donna
November 27, 2006 11:44 AM

I had a Partial Knee Replacement about 3 yrs ago , and have a lot of problems with it . My doctor at first said it was do to my knee being weak .It has poped in and out of place some times pops out and takes a long time before going back in an swells up great big and other times it grinds real bad like grinding two rocks together. Now he is telling me that he can do surgery on it again and do some ajustments on it and should have less pain . But what I want to know is how he can ajust something that has no ajustment placesand make it better ? PLEASE HELP ME DECICE WHAT TO DO !

Whitney
November 28, 2006 3:54 PM

I was in rugby practice about two weeks ago, and I slipped in the mud while making a tackle. The doctor says I have severe bone bruising on the medial and lateral sides, along with a partially torn ACL and miniscus. I'm really scared about possible surgery, and I want to play rugby again as soon as possible. If I can't return without a full brace, I can't play, according to the rules. It would be horrible if this were a career-ender in my freshman year of college! I thought playing varsity rugby was scary... it's nothing compared to the knife.

Scott
November 29, 2006 6:04 AM

About a month and a half back now I was playing football and while running the ball my foot got caught in mud which stopped me up and a large man rolled into my left leg causing me to fall over and my leg to stay in place for the most part, now on November 28th (my birthday) I had ACL reconstructive surgery done on my left knee now only 20 hours later im in slight discomfort but the surgery was successful and im looking to finally be off crutches in a matter of possibly two weeks if PT goes well, within 10 months im looking to finally enlist back into the Marine Corps my date of leaving was one week away when I got hurt.

Andy
November 29, 2006 3:25 PM

I tore my ACL, MCL and partially tore my Lateral Meniscus. I did this while wake-boarding over Labor Day. I was doing an inverted back-flip (3ft in the air) and landed awkwardly and my knee popped out. Probably the most painful experience I have ever felt (I'm assuming this is pretty standard for anyone else that has gone through this injury) but the worst part was floating in the water with a board strapped to your feet and your knee blown out. I'm having surgery December 15th and will most likely be using a cadaver to replace my torn ligaments. Not really looking forward to the surgery but looking forward to moving on from the injury and getting back to an active lifestyle.

NICOLA
November 30, 2006 2:45 PM

hi guy's i landed on my rigth knee playing netball heard that "pop" sound, then i had sharp pain up and down my leg, so of i went to the hospital and they took x-rays and said i sprained it they put a brace on it and told my to take a couple of day's off work, 6 months later knee still hasn't improved so went to my doc who then refferd me to a ortho who then sent me for a mri which confirmed what he thought that i tore my acl and menicus, now i'm waiting to see when i have to go back and see him so i can book the surgery. i would like to hear from anyone about there experiences including what's the best option hamstring or patella and wat bout the anthesia please i'm getting pretty worried about everything

Keir Richter
November 30, 2006 8:55 PM

I am 30 years old and was playing in my basketball league on Tuesday. After getting a rebound I land on the knee and my foot slipped out a little bit. My knee buckled outward and I heard 3-4 pops. The dr states that the MRI is not conclusive b/c it states a probable acl tear. He wants me to do pt for a month and then revisit the issue. The problem is that I have a baby on the way in february and want to atleast be recovering up until that point if I have to have surgery. There is major contusion but no meniscuous tear. What would you suggest to be the best way for me to go about treating this?

Liz
December 1, 2006 7:32 PM

I tore my acl in august playing soccer and just had surgery in october so it has been a little more then a month. Im walking better now, but I still have my post op. brace on which im hoping will be off soon. I got off crutches 3 weeks after surgery and started PT about 1 and a half weeks after surgery. The surgery it self only took me 1 and a half hours, but the anastisia did get me sick for that day only and my stomach rarely gets sick so i guess this happens to most people. I was also wondering if it's possible to be fully recovered before the 6 months because I dont know how i am going to last these last 5 months. i wish everyone luck whos getting surgery. You'll be fine.

Leslie
December 3, 2006 6:01 AM

Hi Adam: Well, it's Saturday, December 1st at 6:35 in the AM I just took my 6:30 meds, Darvaset (2) Antibiotics (1) . I am having so much trouble sleeping. I had ACL recont surgery Thursday Nov 30th and I think since then I have only had about 3 hours sleep. I am exhaused, but very happy to be over the "Hump" I think. My surgery was approx. 9:00 in the AM Thursday. I used an Allograft due to my tender age of 48. This was my 3rd knee surgery. I had Left knee arthroscopic 1997 and right knee arthroscopic 2000. I bi-laterally have no ACLs ( Intil now...) . since 2000. Even though I'm not a youngster, I am physically very active. I ski, Play tennis, ballroom dance and unfortunately since I began to be unstable this past October, decided to have my acl done so I could continue to be active and aviod some arthritis especially on the left knee. Missing 2 ski seasons killed me but hopefully I won't miss next year. I am feeling pretty good since yesterday 4:00PM ( 1st day post op) Before that just plain sucked! I had so much bone pain the night after surgery I was wishing for a gun so someone could put me out of my misery. I soent the whole eveing talking to myself. Trying to go with the oain etc. Unfort, since this surgey is now out patient, I took the meds, keeping up wth them on schedule, but they just didn't hit the pain, or even took the edge off. Once the digital block that they gave me in my femor wore off, I was in intense agony. At 9:00AM gthe following day I called my surgeon and was told I could double up on my meds, plus take 2 advil. So even though yesterday AM was as bad or worse then the first night, I seemed to fall alseep finally for 3 hours and when i woke up Was almost pain free. And thank god, I have been pretty much pain free since then, It was like having a fever and having it break. I was so thankful not to be in so much pain. You know you read sites like yours and never think it's going to be as bad for yourself. Anyway, I am writing you now becasue I just can't sleep. I am so drugged up scared that the intense pain will return, but the drugs are also making me so anxious. So I sit and try to wiggle my toes. I have started weight barring, and have done ankle pumps since i got home from the hospital. My doc doesn't use a CPM machine. His feeling is he wants the swelling to go down first and then have the person get their range back themselves. My PT also agrees with his proticol. Yesterday was scarry because when I got up at 6:30 in the am walking back w/ crutches I tried to bare weight and wound up taking a fall. Fortuneately after so many years of skiing I knew how to fall so I wouldn't injure myself. But It scarred the hell out of me. I feel on my butt back ward and straight. My husband was right behind me so he got me up, but I was soo shaken thinking i ripped the graft. I hope I can get some sleep and cut down on the meds so I can stop being soo anxious. I worry about getting a blood clot, falling again and stupid stuff like that. But I am feeling really good right now. I have the continuious ice machine on my knee 3 hours on..1 hour off and it seems to work great. I also can bare weight and I'm walking with crutches with a lot more confidence. I admit the only walking that I've done since thursday nite when i got home so far is from the couch to the bathroom and back. I can't wait until I see my doc and the scar on Monday. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that my swelling is down eniugh so i can start PT. I really got in shape for my surgery lost 25 pounds..and worked out with strength training, stability stuff and boxing for 4 months to get in shape so hopefully i can bounce back with patience..but also quicker than if I didn't do angthing. My PT was really impressed with how i was going in for surgery. Well I'm getting a little drowsy now..thanks for your site and i will keep you posted on my progress. I just pray not to have anymore pain like I did the first night and second day of surgery. That bone pain is really a nightmare! How long until I can get a solid nite sleep? I'm exhausted.

Leslie
December 3, 2006 6:37 AM

Update: December 3rd. Since thursday it's been a wild ride. Thursday nite, rather Wednesday AM around 2:00 until Friday around 5:00PM I encountered the worse pain i ever felt. Since I don't have any children, I figure I just gave birth to the beginnings of a new knee. That was my childbirth pain! But when the the pain finally broke, I was so happy I wanted to get up an dance..but unfort. I couldn't. I wish i could say that Saturday morning was the best day ever....but unfortuately I woke up with a huge panic attack due to thinking that I over medicated. I think the whole episode lasted 2 hours... almost called 911. Due to all the sleep deprivation, and taking the mostt narcotic pain meds that I've ever taken, my body was having a war inside of it. And it reactede back with huge anxiety. I just could calm myself down, hyperventilation, feeling drugged up etc, were just some of the feelings i experienced. It was terrible. I think because i went from working out 5 to 6 days a week to sitting on the couch just getting up to go to the bathroom, My body was re-acting to the changed pace and pattern. I just can't wait to get back to my usual routine. After my episode, I decided that It was better to experience a little pain then go back on to those narcotics (darvaset: Dr. recommended 2 plus 2 Advil, plus the antibiotic..whoa!). I decided after 6:30 AM untill around 8:00PM I would take no pain meds. Then I took 2 Advil at 8:00PM then another 2 at 10:30PM. This seemed luckily to be enogh for me. Aside from the strong antibiotic(Keflax) that i must take, I am taking nothing else. I am icing and elevating all day long which must be helping to keep the swelling at bay. Now the little pain I'm experiencing 3 days post op is nothing more than I had when i had my arthroscopic knee surgery back in 1997. I am weight baring, could probaby walk okay without crutches, but am too afraid to attempt it. I only try in the small bathroom to see if I can hobble without help. Today, I'm actually going to get out of my comfy bathrobe and attempt walking with crutches back and forth in the hallway of my apartment building. If that works, I might attempt to while assited, take the elevator to the gym in the building and at least, do some upper body work. The thing I find tough aside from needing assistance to get anything brought to me, is not being able to get up by myself from the couch. It's a low leather couch and I'm nervous that my right leg (which also has no ACL and has peteller femoral issues) will buckle under me. The bed is no problem, but I don't want to sit on the bed all day long. Any advice out there for getting up from low places while in an immobilizer would be greatly appreciated. A little bit of toilet humor: For anyone scheduled to have ACL surgery in the future, from a woman's point of view at least. i strongly recommend seeing if you could get your hands on renting a handicap toilet with arms. It will make your life so much easier and It'll be one less thing you will require assistance for. It has been a lifesaver and has allowed me to at least have my own way in the bathroom. I've had 2 other knee surgeries although not as complex as an ACL reconstruction, and this has been the easiest time I've had. You'll find that it's the little things that you don't think about that give you the hardest time, so eliminating or making one of those things easier is a major help. Going through doorway soffits, turning around in tiny spaces with crutches, getting up from sitting on low chairs or couches, and steps..even little ones seem like such obstacles in the beginning. So I strongly recommend anything that makes life a little easier for post op. Well, I'm looking forward to my hallway exersize today. Anyother suggestions from our in the world of ACL surgery survivors would be greatly appreciated. And one last thing...lap top Computers have made life soo much easier. They occupy time and you can do almost anything, watch almost anything and talk to almost anyone without ever leaving the couch....Amen ( at least for the few days after surgery) Leslie

Roxanne<3
December 3, 2006 10:47 AM

hi...im 16 i tore my ACL on june 3rd playing AAU basketball... i was running, jumped stopped, and twisted... the next day i went to the doc..he told me it was just a sprain so 2 weeks later i went back to basketball... my knee still hurt but i figured that it would eventually heal...i played for the rest of the summer until mid august after basketball camp when i just couldnt take the pain in my knee anymore...i went to an orthopaedic surgeon and he said he thought i tore my meniscus...i had an MRI and found out that it was my ACL...i had surgery using my cavadar tendon on sept 13... it was the worst pain i have ever felt...my meds didnt really work for me =[.. it has been about 2 1/2 months since surgery and im doing pretty good...i can jog && have almost all my bend back...im hoping my doc will release me early so i can go back 2 my team for the end of the HS season.. is there any chance that i can go back 2 sports early???

Dave
December 3, 2006 1:11 PM

I have been reading the list for the last few weeks up to and after my ACL surgery. The stories have been helpful so I thought I would share mine in case it helps others decide what to do. I am very active. I workout regulary, ski 10 months out of the year, and play hockey all year round. I was playing hockey a month ago and was tangled up during a face-off. There was a loud pop and some really strange feelings in my knee. It felt like it was dislocated then popped back in. There was not much pain but it felt like there should be a lot of pain. Not much swelling either. I continued activities for a week be there was always a deep ache in the knee and it was not getting better. I decided to get to the knee guy and have it checked out. I must say they did a great job of addressing it. First doctor said torn acl after physical exam. Since I wanted to get it fixed soon he called down and I had my MRI done in 30 minutes. He could not schedule me soon so I went to another one in the practice. The new doctor looked at the MRI and did physical exam. Said it was not obvisous. The ACL looked stretched but not totally torn. He did a KT-1000 test which produced numbers of 6 and 7. He said 3 or 4 I could try PT but a 6 or 7 point to replacement. Since the rest of the knee looks healthy and I am very active he said I neede dto get it done. I opted for replacement. Had the hamstring tendon method done 4 days ago, Nov 29th. The doctor's comments after surgery were that it was very stretched and frayed. The knee moved as if there was no ACL so although not totally torn, it was useless. His feeling is that most of the damage had been done in an earlier incident. That is why there was not much swelling or pain this time. I had a bad snowboard accident where I broke my ankle last year. The last 4 days have been difficult. A agree with the bathroom comment. I never thought about it until I had to sit down. Some improvisation was necessary. The pain has not been too bad. Percocet seems to work for me. I am almost off it now. The hamstring and front drill hole has been the most painful. It feels like a knife cut half my hamstring out. My doctor has me using the CPM machine for motion. I need to get to 90 degrees by Thursday. My first PT appt is tomorrow. I may need a pain pill that day. Overall I feel like I am making progress everyday. My goal is to do some late spring skiing. Reasonable or not that is what keeps me going. Tough to sit here recovering when we have had 24 inches of snow the last 4 days. Thanks for listening, hope this helps others who are considering surgery. I know I made the right choice and am now focused on recovery. If you have any specific questions let me know, I am always happy to share. ...Dave

jay jay
December 3, 2006 5:11 PM

hi guy's i live in Australia i tore my acl filling in for my brother's indoor soccer team i though i'd give it ago (mind you i hadn't played for about 6 years) i heard a loud pop and fell straight down when i tried to get up i couldn't put any weight on my right knee i had sharp shooting pain go up and down my leg. after many month's of going back and foward to my doctor he finally sent me to see a surgeon who said he thought i tore my acl but he wanted to know for sure so he sent me for a mri which confirmed that i did completley tear my acl and medial menicus, so he told my that i'll be off work for 6 weeks and will have to stay in hospital over night, i go back and see him in 4 day's time so hopefully then i'll get my date for surgery because i'm stating to feel very scared.

Leslie
December 3, 2006 5:12 PM

December 3rd 7:00 Well this email will be shorter than my others (Sorry for the length, but it really helped me to write to get mind off of my pain..so thank you for baring wih me) Update: Now 3 days post-op and my goal was to walk in the hallway. Well, happily I actually got dressed in my "zip off pants" (which I also highly recommend post surgery for a couple of days anyway. I bought the Nike ones in a large to go around my brace, and went to the tailor to have them hemmed..a big help in the hospital.) my fleece and my crocks ( which I recommend due to possible swelling in the foot and they require only that you slip into them. They are non-skid, but you still have to be careful while walking with crutches because they are bigger than regular shoes. Anyway, I not only walked down the hallway, but got into the elevator, and to the basement of the building so i could walk up the ramp out to the street. i live in NYC so apartment life is the life we know and deal with. I got out onto the street and continued to crutch it up to my favorite sushi bar for lunch (unfort. I did not have sushi and won't until I feel it is safe to introduce that kind of possible bacteria into my body) And I only took 4 Advils all day. And my antibiotics of course. So for those of you out there worrying about when you'll be able to get around, even though we all heal differently. I got around 3 days post op. Pain free, and with good mobility. Maybe it's because i had prior arthroscipic surgeries, or becasue i lost 25 pounds and worked out like a crazy person 5 days a week doing strength training and weight lifting for 3-4 months leading up to surgery, but i made it over the hump. Now I have to face the doctor tomorrow and see my incision for the first time and pray that my swelling went down enough to be able to go to PT on Wednesday and set other goals. That will be the next hump. I'll take one small turn on a bicycle...and a shower! Well, I'm sure the shower will have to wait..but I'll keep you all posted. Dave, if you want to chat or want to change info on your post op since our surgeries are so close email me. If anyone else has questons or I can be of any help ask a question and I'll do what i can to help. I spend as lot of time with the computer in my lap these days. Also a sloped pillow 12" and an iceman with a cuff are also good things to use post op. I have been hooked up most of the weekend to it, and I have no swelling on my toes at all! good luck. Leslie

Dave
December 4, 2006 6:34 AM

Leslie, Glad to hear you are up and around. I can't figure out how to get a direct email to you from the site. Here is mine: [removed] I would like to keep in touch through email since our surgery was so close, age is similar, and preop work was pretty much the same. Also, it appears our doctors are taking different approaches. We may be able to learn from the difference. Thanks, Dave

Gabby
December 4, 2006 7:19 AM

Roxanne: As far as returning to sports after your ACL injury and rehab, I think you will find that everyone is different. Our doctor said "4 to 6 months" before Beth (age 18) could return to sports (she plays soccer and basketball). Other doctors say as many as 8 to 12 months. It depends on the individual athlete and how well they do in rehab. I know a female athlete who has injured both of her ACLs and returned to high-level competitive sports at 3 1/2 months after the first ACL surgery and about 3 months after her second ACL. But, these results are not typical. You don't want to come back too early, or you will just risk re-injury. So, be dedicated to your physical therapy, have a good mental attitude, and listen to your doctor's advice. You should share with your doctor your goals for coming back to sports, so that you can work together on possibly making that happen. My daughter tore her ACL playing soccer on Oct. 8, had surgery--cadaver--on Oct. 18 and hopes to play basketball by Feb. 7 (Senior Night) which is about 4 months rehab. Doctor says that is do-able, and that it is good for her to set goals, but he won't release her until she is ready. So, as much as we would like her to play basketball her senior year, we are looking at the big picture, and that is her college soccer scholarship. Good luck and keep fit physically and mentally! Gabby

Bill, England
December 4, 2006 11:41 AM

Quick recap - I'm 49, snapped ACL's in both knees playing rugby. Left repaired September 2005 & right in August 2006 (both hamstring grafts). Now on week 18 of second rehab, 145 deg bend (almost getting heel to backside!), running on treadmill each day - about 2 kilometres/10 minutes, started next phase including turning hopping etc. Still doing squats, stretches etc. See the surgeon on 19 December & will post the outcome. His favourite sports are rugby & skiing. I have a holiday booked for April 2007 to tick off 'learn to ski' box before I hit 50! Surgeon said I should be OK by then (I had to sit out January 2006 holiday watching my wife & kids learning). Note to Dave - I would miss out this seasons skiing. The knee may feel strong, but it can take at least 3 to 4 months for the bone graft & screws to settle & become fixed. You could be heading for permanent damage by going back too soon.

Leslie
December 4, 2006 2:07 PM

Bill that sounds great! Good for your ski trip. I'm bummed. I have t wait until next season 2008? I will be in Utah in March but i won't be skiing. I'll be in the cliff lodge while my husband wil be beating up the mountain in snowbird and Alta:-(. I algree with you..I think you should wait a year..when the graft is totoally healed. Dave I emailed you hope you got it and are doing well, post op! 5th day post op for me. Went to see Doc for first time since Thursday. Boy was I happy to have him take that pain in the $@# total leg brace off and all of the other stuff they had on my knee. The brace had gotten so big from the all the swelling that went down that it was too big and was constantly digging into my foot when i walked. Well great news! My incision healed under all that stuff: (Ice cuff, compression bandage) it did look pretty funky from the iodine but it has healed and I am cleared to go for PT. I have minimal if no pain today. I think I only took 4 Advil all day just incase. I am doing leg hangs to try and help my knee bend. I was also cleared to do heal slides preferably while standing to try and lift my leg up and bend it. And isometric quad sets to tighten, hold and release the quad. No leg lifts for a week though. I have to only wear that horrible brace to sleep and when I'm outside. He also didn't set it for anything specifically like everyone else usually does, the brace will bend as much as i can bend my knee. I have no idea what degree? I can use my crutches until I feel conjfident walking without them. What i find interesting is that his protocol is so different than most orthos, but PT's respect him because he believes that after surgery the most important thing is to get the swelling down as much as you can by just icing elevating and doing next to nothing, then start PT. He does not give you a CPM and does not give you any exercizes to do aside from Ankle pumping right after surgery to eliminate the possibility of clotting. I was not allowed to weight bare for 24 hours after surgery or until the femoral pain block wore off. I could after that as much as i could tolerate. His protocol worked for me. I am in no pain, or minimally. Had virtually no swelling and no blood, and am tolerating walking very well. He did say although with an Allograft i shouldn't be suprised if needed to have my knee drained in a few weeks. He said it might happen but it wasn't a definite. He is one of the best Knee guys in NYC and has done both my arthroscopics and my husband shoulder. ( and my husband is now a 4.5 1 year after surgery) This Doc might be different, but so far so good. No complaints. He also doesn't prescribe a brace for skiing. That i disagree with. I like the security of having one and i will ski with one whether he prescribes one for me or not. He doesn't for the same reason he doesn't like the CPM machine. He wants the patient to do as much for them selves as they can. He feels people do much better that way. My PT agrees. he sees a lot of different patients coming from different doctors. The ones that come from my doc. heal quicker and return to sports faster. Go figure. I'm headed for PT Wednesday. Meanwhile i will try to get this stiff knee to bend as much as i can take. I'm sure I'll get beated to death on Wednesday. Ouch! but I'm lookig forward to it. Good luck to everyone out there in recup ACL land. My recommended list of stuff if your preparing to have ACL surgery, this stuff helped me out a great deal: -slip on Crocs. -A slopped pillow 12" for elevation and icing. -renting a elevated toilet seat with arms. -snap off pants for surgery day and following day if wearing a knee immobilzer. Make sure they are hemmed and not too long and make sure they are really baggy so they can go over brace. - Iceman with cuff. The hospital rented it to us, but if they don't rent one yourself, inquire about getting one. It really brings down the swelling and thus the pain. ( although the pain is still pretty badm but I imagine it's so much worse if I didn't have one.) -Lap top computer..lol It's a great way to pass the time and you can sit with your leg elevated for hours and hours and pass the time and keep things less boring.

Leslie
December 6, 2006 8:58 AM

first day PT-day 6 post op. Dave and i have been emailing to comparew our progress ehich has been very cool. And helpful...Go Dave! Our protocols are different so it will be interesting to see progress with different docs. Dave has a CPM machine, I do not. Last night wasn't a bad night finally. But i did sleep all night hooked up to my ice machine. I feel I'd rather get hooked on Ice and the cryocuff than get hooked on pain killers. I have been off of my Daraset since Sunday. It didn't agree with me. Advil might run havok on my stomach, but at least I am use to talking it. I have t sleep with my brace, so I hook up the ice under it just like they did in post op. As soon as it ran out, I woke up...as soon as my leg at bight warms up I start feeling the pins and holes and especially a pain behind my knee. Strange because i had an Allograft. Anyway, I have 100% extension becasue that is how I kept my leg until Monday and my first Docs appointment. Under all that bandage i was already healed, and I had no sweling. My brace was unlocked and stopped at 40 degrees. I have exceriszed since Monday doing quad sets, heel slides ( and the equvllent stansing, sitting and dropping my knees over a table and using my good leg to help bend my post op knee. I probably have 50 -65 ROM, but no where near 90. I'm sure my PT appointment will help and unfort, hurt today. I am feeling really stiff and the pain after my sets hurts, so i ice. I am full weight baring and have been since my digital pain block wore off Friday AM. I can walk without crutches if i had to but will not for obviousl reasons. At home I use only one crutch. Well Will report more later. I have to strap on that pain n the ars brace and take 2 advil. Talk to you soon. If anyone has any acl question feel free to let me kno you want my email and we'll work something out to get to eachother without broadcasting it for the whole free world.

Lisa
December 7, 2006 7:34 AM

Just wanted to thank everyone for all the info posted on this site. It helped tremendously in preparing for my daughter's surgery and recovery. She had her acl repaired using the patella tendon on november 20th. They also shaved 20% of the lateral meniscus(not a big tear at all!). Her recovery has been amazing so far. She had 0 extension 2 weeks post-op and is bending to 126. She is walking without crutches with just a slight limp. They have her bicycling and leg pressing. Just wondering if anyone has found anything to help the incisions heal. Anyway, thank you all for the wonderful info you post-it is quite helpful. Onward now to my surgery in February-I am having a minimally invasive total knee replacement. Anyone know someone who had this done?? Thanks!!!!

TonTon
December 7, 2006 8:15 AM

I am glad I found this blog. It makes me feel way better then when i found out this morning that I might need to have an ACL surgery due to soocer injury. The whole thing happened to me about a couple days ago. I am heading right now to the doctor office for a MRI. To be continued...

Jo
December 7, 2006 11:31 AM

Ihad ACL (BPB) graft repair Jan 9, 2006. I am playing competitive sport again now foro the past 3 months without any brace. I put a thin brace to keep the knee warm, not for much support. I wanted to say that, at first I had slow recovery and a lot of pain (5 months) then I went in for another surgery (clean up job) bcause I had a lot of scar tissure. I walked out (literally) of the surgery room feeling 20 percent better. In two months I could play sport again with just minor pains. Now its great. Still woriking on it to strengthen it furrther. As my non injured leg is become like a rock from favoring it.

Leslie
December 7, 2006 3:18 PM

1 week for me post -op ACL reconstruction Yippie! I'm feeling pretty good. Don't need both crutches ( really don't need any,but my PT told me that if I wore my brace I could use one crutch. 2nd day PT: My hole on the left where my femur was drilled hurts and my knee is alittle swollen. Did a lot of stuff in PT. Got on the bike, got a slow rhythm going but by that was a little painful, Not on the extention, on the ROM. I have 81 degrees but while I'm lying down, doing a rotation is another story. So as I si here icing, I also walked, practiced my gait. I lifted my bad leg over a cone while I walked back and forth. Did heel lifts and balanced on one leg from side to side. I also did some leg lifting backward to try and increse the ROM. I learned how to navigate stairs with crutches. I liked this for those of you who like nme did not know how to do this and were afraid to. My PT told me " Bad leg goes to hell ( bad leg first when going down stairs), good leg goes to heaven ( good leg goes first going up and pulls bad leg second) So I did a bunch of flights of stairs. Now I don't have to use the handicapped elevator I can use the stairs. I have a lot of new excerizes. for flexation, and hamstrings. I feeling great except for that one hole that is hurting me when I walk. It's swollen. But they tell me next week I will probably be able to loose the crutches. I can't wait and I hope that immobilizer goes with it. I can't stand sleeping with it anymore. Only woke up twice last night, so it's getting a little better. Just as long as the ice stays cold, I can sleep pan free. Keep you posted.

ck
December 9, 2006 9:44 AM

November 29, 2006---one year since my daughter's acl repair. She is playing full soccer games and scored her first goal since her injury a few games ago. She is running long distance again with no pain or stiffness. One year ago things seemed bleak around our house, but for those of you just getting this diagnosis---remember there is light at the end of the tunnel. We worried about her young age (12 when she tore it)but since the surgery and with consistent PT and tough trainers, she is much stronger physically and mentally than she ever was before. She knows what it's like to sit out 9 months from a sport she loves and I am sure plays with much more heart and desire now than any of her peers. We credit her desire, dedication to rehab training, her ortho surgeon, and many, many, prayers to her successful recovery. You csn do it!

Dean
December 9, 2006 10:52 PM

Hi, I am 36 years old and live in Manitoba, Canada. I tore the ACL and meniscus in my left knee on Oct 6, 2006 playing volleyball. There is a myth that the Canadian health care system is great because it is free. While it is free, it is definately NOT speedy. If I stayed in the public system, the earliest I could have surgery is August, 2007. Being a somewhat active guy with three kids (7, 4 and 1) that I like to keep active, waiting nine months wasn't an option. I researched many options from the local private surgery centre to travelling to another province (British Columbia) to the travelling to the United States. I ended up consulting with three different surgeons and decided the local surgeon was the best. I had my surgery on December 5th so this makes me five days post-op. My preference was to use the hamstring for my graft. So far, I would say that I have been relatively pain free. I have been using my cooling splint (I think people have referred to it as an ice machine) almost every minute since the surgery. It is tough to say if it is helping. I am not sure if the cooling is making it through the ACE wrap and dressing to my knee. If I stick my finger underneath the ACE wrap and dressing, I don't feel any coolness. My biggest frustration is coming with all the conflicting views of the surgeons and PTs. Two of the surgeons were going to lock the leg straight for the first couple of weeks with a brace. My surgeon said my only homework until the follow up visit of Dec 15th is to bend my leg. A brace was not supplied or recommended. One PT wants to see me two weeks post op to start physical therapy. I decided to use another PT and she does not want to see me until three weeks post op. The surgeons that I did not choose wanted me to start PT almost immediately. All of this is very confusing. I am experiencing swelling in the calf and ankle of the operated leg. From what I have read on this site, it is nothing to be alarmed. I am going to be a rebel tonight and try sleep 'normally', with no cooling splint just the ACE wrap. Hopefully I won't regret it in the morning. I have enjoyed reading the many post. Good luck to all of us dealing with an ACL tear.

Leslie
December 10, 2006 7:24 PM

Hi Dean. Hopefully sleeping without the ice was Okay for you. I had my ACL repaired Nov. 30 so I am 11 days post op. I have slept with the iceman everynight elevated and in my brace. I believe it has helped me not only getting off of the narcotics faster, but also with the swelling. The brace has not helped me to get a good night sleep and frankly I am getting really tired of wearing it! You do read a lot of different protocols from different doctors. I guess if trust in your surgeons abilities you will be fine. I was locked in a brace with full extention and unlike most people, I was not given a CPM machine to use. I met Dave here who had his ACL repaired a day before me and he was given a CPM. It has been interesting comparing our therapies and protocols. Both of us have started PT around the same time. I started as soon as I saw my Doctor 4 days after my operation. He had told me as long as i did not have a lot of swelling I was released to go to PT. I went 6 days post op. I didn't do much at my first session. They took measurements, checked my ROM and used the electric stim. I have already had 2 sessions. Suprisingly I was put on the bike the first week, so was Dave. The rotations were a little tough for me as i am still stiff from my lack of ROM. I only had 81 degrees last Thursday. Hopefully I will find out tomorrow that I have a little more tfor my 3rd PT appointment and gthe bike will be easier. At home I am on ice when I am sitting, which is still most of the day. I do do all my take home exersizes and I am down to one crutch, even though i really don't need it anymore. I also am still in a brace, locked at 40 that I have to wear when I go out of the house and when i sleep. Hopefully that will end as well this week. I don't have anymore severe pain and I have been only on Advil since my 3rd day post op. The heavy duty drugs did not agree with me. How quickly we all progress in PT has more to do with swelling and how much we can take. In the beginning it's a back and forth process. I'm sure you will be fine. Some schools of thought want all the swelling to disappear before you start any PT. Some doctors want you moving in the recovery room. Hopefully we'll all be able to return to sports in 4 months. I'm just bummed I have to wait for next ski season to ski. Best of luck and keep us posted with your progress. Wishing you many painfree days ahead.

Brian
December 11, 2006 7:21 AM

Hi All, I’m now getting close to 6 weeks post op (had surgery November 1st with a Hamstring graft) and am doing well. Just have a little swelling yet and almost all of the bruising on my ankle and calf is gone. My surgeon released me from my brace November 29th and I’ve moved on quite a bit at PT. I’m at 130 degrees of motion, am doing single leg presses and hamstring curls, and also am hitting the elliptical and stationary bike about 40 minutes/day 6 times/week. My therapist is basically focusing on strength and balance and said my ROM is fine and will only get better. Overall, I’m pretty pleased. I still have a slight limp but my PT said this too shall pass with time. So, for all those considering the surgery or just had it, stay patient AND positive. And most of all, keep the surgery and injury in perspective. Yes, it is a pain in the arse and yes there is a lot of work to do post op. However, there are many worse things to be suffering from, and this malady, unlike many others, is curable and you can expect a full recovery. Best wishes to all of you, and here’s wishing you a speedy recovery. I’ll post again in a couple of weeks! -Brian

Jon
December 11, 2006 12:42 PM

Hey everyone, I had my ACL surgery on Dec. 7 th and all seems to be going pretty well. I was perscribed Vicodin for the pain and after 2 days I have only needed the pills at night to help me get a good nights rest. First shower today making sure not to get the wounds in direct stream of the water. I have been moving around well with the crutches. Have been icing my knee with a machine for about 8 to 12 hours a day including wearing while sleeping. First post-op follow-up on Dec 13th. Right now i am taking it easy and awaiting further instructions from my doctor. Good luck to all of you and I will post more info in a few days.

Mitch
December 11, 2006 5:32 PM

December 11, 8:05 My daughter had an ACL (hamstring transfer graft) and meniscus repair done 27 weeks ago after a complete tear while playing soccer in May. It has been an uphill battle with scar tissue since the beginning. Despite going to physio 5 days a week since the start she had a difficult time breaking down the scar tissue post surgery and even returned to the OR once for the removal of a cyclops (ball of scar tissue behind the knee). Then we had to battle the scar tissue after the second surgery as it develops so quickly and we even used a CPM machine at home for two weeks. It was very frustrating at times because the surgeon made us feel like we were not working hard enough because of the scar tissue but we were very committed to her rehab and so was her physiotherapist. The only thing that got us through this was a week post scar tissue removal (4 months post ACL repair) we took her to physio twice a day and she road the stationary bike for a half hour twice a day for two weeks and the physiotherapist stretched her flexion in her knee till she cried in pain every day and now we have managed to get 130 degreed flexion and she is at 0 degrees extension almost 7 months into rehab. Her knee looks pretty good now with very mininal swelling and her calf muscles are well developed and so are the hamstrings but the quads are still a little behind. She is looking forward to going back to playing hockey as scholarships are pending upon her return. Her surgeon recommends 9 months before returning to hockey but I am interested in any comments on others returning to their sports.

Mitch
December 11, 2006 5:33 PM

December 11, 8:05 My daughter had an ACL (hamstring transfer graft) and meniscus repair done 27 weeks ago after a complete tear while playing soccer in May. It has been an uphill battle with scar tissue since the beginning. Despite going to physio 5 days a week since the start she had a difficult time breaking down the scar tissue post surgery and even returned to the OR once for the removal of a cyclops (ball of scar tissue behind the knee). Then we had to battle the scar tissue after the second surgery as it develops so quickly and we even used a CPM machine at home for two weeks. It was very frustrating at times because the surgeon made us feel like we were not working hard enough because of the scar tissue but we were very committed to her rehab and so was her physiotherapist. The only thing that got us through this was a week post scar tissue removal (4 months post ACL repair) we took her to physio twice a day and she road the stationary bike for a half hour twice a day for two weeks and the physiotherapist stretched her flexion in her knee till she cried in pain every day and now we have managed to get 130 degreed flexion and she is at 0 degrees extension almost 7 months into rehab. Her knee looks pretty good now with very mininal swelling and her calf muscles are well developed and so are the hamstrings but the quads are still a little behind. She is looking forward to going back to playing hockey as scholarships are pending upon her return. Her surgeon recommends 9 months before returning to hockey but I am interested in any comments on others returning to their sports.

Leslie
December 11, 2006 6:40 PM

Day 11 post op Great PT day. A little swelling on top of the incision where he drilled. Scar looks great all healed. I have had worse scars from scraping my knee. It's amazing that I only have a 1" scar from all of this. And 2 small holes. My surgeon is an artist..LOL Rode bike for 10 minutes. Could take it up to 60 rotations per minute on Level 1. felt good after i got going. The beginning hurt..but I just kept going. Did leg press with weights on. 3 reps of 20. Wall slides. Heel raises. Leg lifts. Bridge wth yoga block and a lot of stairs. Gonna loose the brace and the final crutch hopefully Thursday (That'll be the full 2 weeks) Feeling really good that all of my pre-op workouts really helped. I did not loose much muscle at all. I'm still icing and elevating most of the day. And all night while I suffer sleeping with the brace. For those of you scheduled for an ACL reconstrution, if you can and your pain allows you to, try to work out as much as you can prior to surgery. It really makes a difference with your knee and also with your head and with your recovery time post op. Aside from helping to keep a positive attitude, you will bounce back quicker. I also recommend finding a good PT person who you could go to before to see where you are before surgery. There is a great book that came out not to long ago. It was written by a good NYC surgeon and my Physical Therapist who has worked with the US olympic team as well as the Knicks, the Mets and the Yankees) There are a lot of great exercises in the book for all phases of knee injuries. It also gives you a step by step guide to all different problems surrounding the knee and what you can and should do. It tells you about drugs. about options, grafts etc. It's called " The Knee Crisis Handbook'"-Understanding Pain, Preventing Trauma, Recovering from Knee Injury, and Building Healthy Knees for Life. By Halpern. You can find it on Amazon. This is not a commercial, but I bought the book and aside from my areobic workouts also did all the exercises in the book leading up to my surgery. I am now weeks ahead of where I would have been if I hadn't done them. And I'm not one of you youngsters...I'm a young 48....I have had 2 other arthoscopic surgeries and i was better prepared for my ACL than for the others. I am on exactly the same PT timetable for my ACL that I was for my arthroscopic. Got on the bike roughly the same time. Which is pretty amazing considering the difference in the surgeries. I really recommend the book for anypne with a knee...or two knees...LOL Good luck to everyone who recently had surgery. Stay positive. Things will get better if you do what they tell you to and have patience.

Lisa
December 12, 2006 8:35 AM

Jon-my daughter was the same as you sound the first 2 days after her surgery so we spread out the pain pills. However, the pain actually hit her on days 3 & 4 and then it was hard to stay on top of it. Just wanted to make you aware so you didn't have the same problem. After day 4 she was fine and we eventually tapered off to just aleve. Good luck!!

Theresa
December 13, 2006 8:34 AM

I had the surgury back in '98. It was extremely effective. I have had no pain what so ever after the healing was complete. I, very soon, was able to play without my brace. I am very active and have no fear. The only time my knee would ache, is of course when the weather changes or rain is do. Eight years later, I am just now having problems. I think the screw is actually wiggling its way out. But, knowing what I do. I am very willing to have the surgery again, to have the stability and confidence in my knee again. Injurying my knee is far worse than the surgery.

Darius Yazdani
December 13, 2006 2:58 PM

The amount of variance in the replies here is incredible. In somecases it seems as if exagerration of the level and speed of recovery is used in a means to compete with other posts. Please lets be honest here, no one can run two weeks after acl reco. I tore the my left acl and only that a complete rupture. I am 24 and play professional football in Iran and have played for the youth and olympic national teams. There is only one doctor in Iran who specializes strictly in knee reconstruction, recieving all his education in germany, and operates on 6 knees everday 4 days a week for the past 7 years. 99% of whom are professional soccer players. It seems he has not only mastered the art by doing over 2000 acl and meniscis recos, but he has perfected it. He only uses hamstring grafts semitendonous and gracilis looped 4 times, which makes it even more durable than the original acl. Patellars are going to be put aside soon as they are in italy and germany or very near in the future. Only one 1/2 incision on the tibia and two for athroscopy. No incision on the hamstring, rather he implements a new technique to harvest the graft from the hole drilled through the tibia! I had 90 degree forced flexion day 2, 120 at 10 days, now at 30 days im at 145. ditched the brace and 1 crutch at stich removal day 10, ditched second crutch at 21 days, walked with a limp until day 30. Physical therapy started like i said at day 2 twice a day morning and afternoon 6 days a week, the 7th day i spend in the pool.Russian stim.,Feedback stim, Fes. stim, elastic band, hamstring strengting..and every exercise imaginable in europe. I have full flexion at 30 days no pain swelling very minor around the small incisions, minor atrophy and at this rate should return back to the league at the 4 1/2 mark jus as all other friends have. Hope this may shed some light and hope for all. Iran unbelievably may just have the best knee surgeon in the world, quite possibly due to the unbelievable number of acl and meniscas recos he performs in year,, more than a few thousand, due to a lack of surgeons in this part of the world. He probably can do them blind folded. My best to all from Iran,

Darius Yazdani
December 13, 2006 3:11 PM

This article was included by the doctor who performed on me. (passed out to all his acl patients.) He employs the EXACT same technique for all his acl jobs. Enjoy and good healing! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Isokinetic Education and Research Department, Bologna, Italy. gs.roi@isokinetic.com STUDY DESIGN: Case report. BACKGROUND: To present the rehabilitative course, decision-making, and clinical milestones that allowed a top-level professional soccer player to return to full competitive activity 90 days after surgery. CASE DESCRIPTION: The patient was a 35-year-old forward player who sustained an isolated complete tear of the left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the midst of the competitive 2001-2002 season. He was in contention for a position on the Italian World Cup Team that was to be played 135 days after his injury, only if he demonstrated that he could return to play at the highest level before the team was selected. The patient underwent an arthroscopically assisted ACL reconstruction with a double-loop semitendinosus-gracilis autograft 4 days after the injury. Eight days after surgery he began rehabilitation at a rate of 2 sessions a day, 5 days a week, plus 1 session every Saturday morning. These sessions were performed in a pool for aquatic exercises, in a gymnasium for flexibility, coordination, and strength exercises, and on a soccer field for recovery of technical and tactical skills, with continuous monitoring of training intensity. OUTCOMES: The surgical technique and the progressive rehabilitation program allowed the patient to play for 20 minutes in an official First Division soccer game 77 days after surgery and to play a full game 90 days after surgery. Eighteen months postsurgery, the player had participated in 62 First Division matches, scoring 26 times, and had received no further treatment for his knee. DISCUSSION: This case report suggests that early return to high-level competition after ACL reconstruction is possible in some instances. Some factors that may have favored the early return include optimal physical fitness before surgery, a strong psychological determination, an isolated ACL lesion, a properly placed and tensioned graft, a personalized progression of volume and intensity of exercise loads, and an appropriate density of rehabilitative training consisting of a mix of gymnasium, pool, and field exercises. PMID: 15773563 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Related Links * Rehabilitation program for both knees when the contralateral autogenous patellar tendon graft is used for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a case study. [J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 1999] PMID: 10322588 * Early application of negative work via eccentric ergometry following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a case report. [J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2006] PMID: 16715830 * Proprioception of the knee before and after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. [Arthroscopy. 2003] PMID: 12522394 * Relationship between tunnel widening and different rehabilitation procedures after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with quadrupled hamstring tendons. [Chin Med J (Engl). 2005] PMID: 15740671 * Failure of osteointegration of hamstring tendon autograft after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. [Arthroscopy. 2004] PMID: 15067284 * See all Related Articles... Display

Leslie
December 13, 2006 3:52 PM

Darius: Thanks for all the info. I appreciated it. I don't know, i don't get the feeling people list what they're doing to compete with each other. In my case I do it for a means of comparison. I find it interesting. I really like reading other's protocols and the differences between them. But I am happy for the insight on your protocol and progress. You don't usually hear from what they do in the Middle East. I do know many people travel to Vail, Colorado to get their ACL's done at the Steadman Hawkins Clinic, by Dr. Steadman. He is also amazing and I was very impressed when I met with him back in '97. I think as long as one trusts in their surgeon's ability and their "Team" so to speak of: PT and trainers etc., everyone does well. I also think a lot depends on what you go into your surgery looking like, both physically and mentally. And how much work you are willing to do for yourself both before and after. I spoke to my PT only last week inquiring about how long it takes for a professional athlete to get back to his/her sport after getting their ACL fixed. He used Jerry Rice the American professional football player as an example. Rice came back in 10 weeks..amazing! right? Wrong. He went back to play football after having his ACL repaired..but unfort. came back too fast because he then fractured his pateller. The ACL was fine..but who wants a fractured pateller? You sound like you're in amazing shape and an athlete to boot. Your surgeon also sounds interesting. Especially his/your agressive PT schedule (but then again, it seems as though you are a professional so I would expect yours to be more agressive than the average person who is not an athlete of your caliber) Chances are no matter who did your surgery, you'd recoop faster than someone who isn't up to your ability physically. Heal faster, deal with the pain better. I'm 48, And I was in really good shape going into my surgery. I'm not...no way a professional athlete, but I worked as hard as I could for 4 months leading up to my ACL recon. I'm 2 weeks post op (Allograft) and I am loosing my brace and my one crutch after Friday. I do not walk with a limp, I never lost my extention it was always from the beginning on 0 due to the fact I was locked in a knee immobilizer at zero, for 4 days as my post surgery swelling went down. My ROM is 95, which I did all myself by dioing at home exersizes. I have PT 3x a week. I've had 3 sessions already. I've had 2 arthroscopic surgeries, one on each knee, with the same surgeon and I think he's amazing. My scar is almost invisable. All he does is also knees and shoulders. His protocol is also different than most because he does not use a CPM machine. Considering my age, weight etc. I think and feel great considering I'm 14 days out tomorrow. I think almost as important as the physical ability is the mental one. You have to be mentally prepared for whomever is doing your surgery. If your'e ready, it really helps. But that's just my opinion. Again, Thanks for the insight and wishing you continued success on your recovery.

Dave
December 13, 2006 8:34 PM

Mitch, You asked about returning to sports, including hockey. I had my ACL replaced (hamstring) on Nov 29. I initially tore it playing hockey. I was very concerned about the timing because of ski and hockey season. My doc said 5 months was the earliest he would sign off on hockey or skiing. Then, when I can finally play it will be with a brace for six months. I live in Colorado and my doc has worked with pro hockey and ski team members along with amateur atheletes, so he has a wide variety of patients. After that the brace will be gone and I will be back to normal. I also checked with my PT after my first visit to get her opinion. She has seen the same thing. I am two weeks in and doing well. No crutches and using a brace outside of the house. Walking normally and navigating stairs with out any problems. I am on track and my goal is to ski and skate again the first week of April. I also second Leslie's workout program. The more you can do before surgery the better off you will be after. All of the pre op hard work will pay off on the other side. ...Dave

James
December 14, 2006 12:05 PM

Thanks to all for the very informative posts. I had my ACL done yesterday (allograft). Still have some residual nausea and I'm trying to go light on the the pain meds so I have a bit of discomfort today. My neniscus was torn in two spots and one needed stitches to repair so I can't bear weight on the leg for two weeks per the surgeon. I'm curious if others have had this scenario and what course of PT was effective considering the meniscus tear. James

Leslie
December 14, 2006 2:11 PM

James: I hope you're feeling a little better. I do feel your pain, literally. I had my ACL done 2 weeks ago. I remember the first night/day after post op. Take the pain meds on schedule in the beginning in order to stay ahead of the pain! And don't forget to take you antibiotics, if you have them. This isn't the time to be a hero. If you are sensitive to the meds..go light on diet. BRAT (Banana, rice, apple scrapped if you can, tea and/or toast) is a good thing to follow. Might not be the most exciting, but you don't need your stomach to be acting up as well as your knee pain. Also ****** drink plenty of water. I can't stress that enough. Not only will it make you feel better (I know the bathroom thing could be a little tough) But it will help flush all that stuff they pumped into you at the hospital get flushed out. I was really afraid of getting constipated from the narcotics...and after going through 2 surgeries prior (asrthroscopic) to having my ACLR, this time I listened and drank until I literally floated away, and the constipation never came. Believe me, that is also one thing you don't want to deal with when you have knee pain. I was also non-weight baring for 2 1/2 days. I also had an Allograft, but luckily my Medial menicus sugery from 1997 held up and I had no debrisment. I had to stay off of my knee for a few days due to getting a femoral pain block before leaving the hospital. Just remember one thing...in the next few days: it does get better, and faster than you think. Just chill, let that graft heal, manage your swelling (I iced almost non stop for the first week with an Donjoy iceman, if you don't have one, try and rent one, it gives you a continuious flow of ice cold water and it feels really good!) I've had surgery without it and the more you can ice..the less medication I find out I required. I'm bummed that I have to give it back tomorrow. Ice, elevate, medicate....and go slow. Wear shoes (like crocs if you have them, or any shoes you have that are easy to get on) with the crutches. I find the crocs slip on and off and give you more support walking, even on one leg, than going barefoot. Eat lightly, drink water heavily, and stay ahead of your meds and your pain. I had panic attacks because I am really sensitive to meds, so day 3 I was already on Advil. Let us know how you make out. Feel better and hang in there.

Allen Murphy Jr.
December 20, 2006 7:18 AM

Hi all, Im 25 year old male, I tore my lateral meniscus and ACL playing basketball in October, I initally sprained the ligaments back in August. For those that go to ER and get diagnosed only for sprained ligaments, please go an see a Sport Physician afterwards because X-Rays can't reveal if the ligament was partially torn or completely torn. That was my problem, since I was diagnosed with Sprained Ligaments, I thought it would be fine just to sit it off for about a month and a half with a light workout in-between to get back to playing ball again, WRONG! I tore my ACL playing ball in October and when I tore it I heard a loud pop, I will be having a Donor Cadaver allograft surgery done on Jan.4. The Patellar Tendon method was out of question because the doctor emphasized that they was their for a purpose and as you all know BBall is a jumping sport, so Tendonitis can develop a bit more easier when using this method. The Hamstring looked do-able for me but then I read about Scar tissue and the hamstrings being loose, after a graft has been taken. I've dealt with hamstring injuries before due to scar tissue not healing, and it was no fun at all. There's really no wrong answer to which surgery is best, it's just the factors that are involved for each one. I think this Blog is very helpful and I will keep you all up-to-date on how my surgery goes, along with the recovery process. Take Care

Gary
December 20, 2006 7:44 AM

I visited this website in late May after I tore my ACL playing basketball on Memorial Day weekend. I reluctantly waited to have surgery until the end of June b/c of the doctor's advice. I am glad now, b/c from what I have learned that time is needed to do the prehab, to get that strength in the leg before surgery. I followed the rehab very closely during the rest of the summer. The problem arose shortly after school started back up. I am a coach and teacher, once school started I got busy coaching softball and started dedicating less and less time to rehab. I was jogging 3 miles up inclines for 2 to 3 weeks 2 times a week with no problem. Then all of a sudden I couldnt even run 2 minutes without my knee having sharp pains so I went another month without running. I learned the main reason for the pain was that I stopped doing the strength excercises on the inside and outside of the leg. Once I have focused more on those strength exercises I have more and more success. Now it is basketball season and on occasion I will run the sprints with my basketball team. I am only about 6 months out of surgery, so obviously I am not keeping pace very well. A lot of it is just having confidence in the knee, and especially the hamstring. I am so paranoid of rehurting or setting back the rehab. I dont know if I will ever play basketball again, I have had achillies and ACL surgery b/c of playing b/ball. It may not be worth it after turning 30. I have heavily debated on hanging it up so I will still be able to mover around and keep up with my own kids. The ACL recovery seems like it has been harder and longer than the achillies rehab, but the achillies hurt more than the ACL injury.

Ryan
December 20, 2006 7:57 AM

Hi all, I just have a question for those that have had the surgery and used pre-op training. What exercises did you do? I am having ACL surgery on Jan. 3 (using hamstring tendon) and forgot to ask the doc about workouts/pt to strengthen the area before hand. Now its right before Xmas so the doc is on vacation. Any help would be great!

Jon
December 20, 2006 4:17 PM

Well here I am 13 Days post op. Went to PT today and for the first time I was able to ride the bike with full revolutions. The other exercises still hurt a little but I need to power through that. Dr. says to keep the crutches until week 5 for assistance. He does not want full weight on the knee until then. I still wear the brace about 21 hours of the day, less showers and PT. Locked in full extension while sleeping and doing leg lifts in PT. Unlocked while walking with the crutches. Ice still 2 to 3 times a day with a VitalWrap machine. I had an allograft and my miniscus was pretty torn up. I am a 27 y/o male. My Dr. said my knee looked like it was that of a torn up 50 y/o knee. Since there was not much that could be done with the miniscus they cleaned it up a bit an did a little "hollowing" so that scar tissue will take the part. Hence walking with crutch assistance for about 5 weeks. I might give a call by New Years, depending on my progress to see if I can ditch the crutches and maybe walk with a cane. I might be getting a little over confident. But still watching what I do without overdoing it. At this point I have about 100 degrees of flex back. Friday proper measurements will be taken at PT office. The first week was hell. Nothing some movies and alot of ice couldn't cure. Any info for the future would be great. All those getting ready for it...... Don't Worry...

Leslie
December 20, 2006 8:01 PM

week 3: I had my ACL done Nov. 30th. Week 1 was pain week and lying around week. Week 3 is very different. I am off my crutches and done with my brace (now I can catch up on my lost sleep!) . Walking up and down stairs on one foot at a time. Been on the bike since week 2, now at level 8. Leg press, a lot of balance work with weights, leg lifts for VMO and the bridge, ab work, wall slides and heel slides at home, quad sets, hamstring sets. I still have swelling around my incision and above the drill holes, but usually after exercises and when walking around. I feel that I'm walking a lot more so I'm not icing as much (I miss my iceman), but i am still icing, after each set when I workout at home. I'm only taking between 2-4 Advil a day, so tht's pretty good. James: Look into" The Knee Crisis handbook" It has all the exersizes in it. I did prehab for 3-4 months prior to my surgery, lost 25 pounds and I'm about 3 weeks ahead of where I would have been (so i've been told by my PT) had I not done all the prehab. I was psyched that I really lost no muscle tone. I have weakness but it has come back a lot faster due to muscle memory. I went to my PT 3 months before my surgery to discuss what I should do prior, that seemed to work really well and I recommend it highly. A lot of the exercises you do before, strengthening etc. are the same you do after and more. Balance work on one leg. Leg press. Abductor work, Leg lifts, quad sets, bridge to strenghten quads. You do what you can providing you don't have a lot of swelling and pain. That book a long with one PT visit would be really helpful for you. It was really helpful to me. I have had 2 other surgeries (both arthroscopic one on each knee) and I was no where as in shape as i was for my ACL recon. I felt so much better this time. I even think I'm ahead of where I was trying to get my ROM back from arthroscopic. Hope that helped. Any other questions, just ask..always happy to help. Everyone else..it gets better faster than you think..just keep on icing!

Alex richards
December 21, 2006 7:11 AM

Hey guys, here is my story, 29 yr old male, tore my left acl in the end of sept., had to do prehab, then reinjured it due to lack of balance, had my surgery last wed., had complications with fever and bleeding, so I got of the hospital sunday. I have had rehab twice and I am going to get my staples out today. My problem is my pain, I am in constant pain, I cant sleep, pain meds dont help, I am losing my mind here, stuck at home, if anyone has any advice let me know.

Leslie
December 21, 2006 5:09 PM

Alex.. sorry to hear your suffering so. We all suffered the first week. But some suffer more, some suffer less. The pain meds didn't really do anything for me the first 2 days...hope you have a Donjoy Iceman. If not get one on Ebay. That'll give you something to do. I found that the more hours (all day of you can take it) you ice..the less drugs i needed. Ice and elevate! And just take my..and others peoples words for it...it will get better. the first week just plain sucks. Don't try and fight it. Just know it sucks and it will get better. I spent a lot of time on this site and others just trying to get my mind off of my pain. Movies are good...watch the diet..keep it light and simple. And Ice ice ice. Only do what they tell you. Use a lot of pillows. i found a couch and an otoman a lot more comfortable than the bed. For the first week i didn't get any sleep on the bed. On the loveseat i did. Even with the brace on and ice. I'm n week 3 and you will be soon as well. Only taking advil and 2 a day at most. This will all be a distant memory real soon. Hang in there. And remember..you can't get eniugh ice to bring that swelling down. Just make sure you're not using the icepack or pad directly on your skin...you can get and iceburn. Try keeping it up as high as you can without feeling pain. You'll feel better really soon.

julio
December 23, 2006 9:24 AM

Hello everyone, my name is Julio and i want to give you an update on knee surgery,march 7 2006 i had a allograft done on my left knee and let me tell you its the best i could have in my life i spent 12 years postponing the surgery 12 years of antagonising pain ,but i had good doctor, now aim 33 yeras ols and in the best shape of my life,i went back to college full time, and decided to take a soccer class (the reason of knee surgery) and i can run better my stamina is excellent to the point this coming spring iam going to play in college soccer team, iam so excited,i cant still believe that a suregry could do so much impact in someone life, so my advice to you is do it nowdays the recovery is faster and less painful as for to me iam living a dream i dont know how long it will last ,but iam glad i did it.

Kelly
December 25, 2006 6:31 AM

Put off my ACL reconstruction for 3 1/2 years. Original injury was in a soccer game. Managed to continue to play soccer and snowboard with a hard metal sports brace since. Gave up soccer last fall but continued to run regularly. Knee gave out on a short run about 2 months ago and had to limp home pain when climbing stairs etc. Finally scheduled and had surgery December 19th. Took Oxycodone and Keflex for the first 32 hours and gave up because I couldn't deal with the nauseau. Have no pain so couldn't see the point in taking the meds. Alternated Motrin and Tylenol for an additional day just to be sure. Have to wear an immobilizer that extends from my crotch to my ankle. This usually is off at 5-6 days but because of the holiday I get 9 fun filled days. Went into the castroom and had my dressing removed last Friday (cause I couldn't stand waiting til the following Wednesday). It was so thick I can't imagine the ice was doing any good. Now I have an ace badage under the immobilizer. Personally I have had a more difficult time with the feeling of constaint and the immobilization. I had my MD rx some valium and it has helped me sleep and deal with this. Otherwise I am only taking a baby aspirin every day (for 14 days post op). I hate crutches and found that the my old desk chair on wheels gives me greater freedom around the house. Wednesday I go back to the MD to get checked. I hope I graduate to the hinged brace then and can finally take a shower! Everything I was told by the Docs office before my surgery seemed to change a bit. Originally I was told 3-5 days in the immobilizer (I get 9) 2 weeks on crutches ( I can't wait to be told that it will be more). PT seems to vary from surgeon to surgeon. My original sureon felt that PT can damage new grafts. The surgeon that did my surgery believes in an all out assault. Had to go with the second surgeon because my first choice is away in Vale and I needed the holiday time for recovery. Sorry this is long this has been therapeutic to share. Thanks for reading.

Alex richards
December 26, 2006 7:06 AM

Ok, Leslie I do appreciate the response because I was going out of my mind. I still am in some respects. It has now been a week and I am feeling somewhat better, but not great. Of course because of the christmas I understand Kelly's plight. I had one doctor(not my surgeon) take out some of the staples but not all of them. Here is where I am at now, still have pain, but I am trying to wean myself off the pain pills as everyone says do. I am still on crutches, trying to put my foot down, it can be painful and difficult due to my weak leg. My wound area is still a little pink and purple is that normal. Icing is a pain in the ass, no normal ice bags work, the ones at rehab are wonderful. I just researched what Leslie said, it would have been nice to have one of the those in the beginning. As the previous person wrote I have varying issues with my rehab people. My lady doesnt seem to be worried I am behind in my flexion and strength, As the last person said, one doctor said go light and one said full steam ahead. They kill me at rehab till I scream and swear. Its frustrating sitting next to some guy who is in your surgery range and is WAY ahead of you. See this is my last week to get really better. Next week after the new year I have to go back to work. The whole off crutches in 2 weeks is b.s in my case, totally false. I cant see that happening. Right now I just want some normalcy. First they want you to keep it st8 then they want it bent, which one is it? lol, My doc says sleep and walk in the brace. Sleeping in it is horrible, very uncomfortable. Anyway this is the big week for me to see if I turn the corner. I have to be back at work after the new years day. This week I have 3 rehab appts., a doctors visit and have my remaining staples taken out. So I hope and pray things get better. At this point they have to, because my window of staying home to recover is closing. I know I rambled, but as you are aware sitting at home stuck can be quite boring. If anyone wants to give advice or etc. please let me know. THanks....!

Ryan
December 26, 2006 2:40 PM

I had mine reconstructed last Monday and I have not felt too much pain. I was on Percacet(sp) for 3 days and I have taken maybe 2 Vicoden pills since and lots of ice, I work at a tennis club and the members made sure to tell me to ice ice ice.... I feel pretty stable without the brace on and haven't had to use crutches. I didn't realize mine was torn until I had a knee scope and that was a worse pain than this. It's been 10 days and I am ready to start rehab(in my mind). I hope you all the best and I will never play indoor soccer again.

undrdg
December 26, 2006 5:55 PM

hello people. it has been almost 3 months since my surgery. i had acl patellar graph with some meniscus repair. So far so good. i am 142 flex and +10 full extension. The only problem i have is the pain on the inside of my knee when i climb stairs. Anyone else have that? how is everyone doing ?

Rose
December 26, 2006 11:13 PM

Looks like all if not most of us has this problem due to Indoor soccer, I did too Jan of 2006, I was playing and went to kick a ball, and felt a pop, and hit the floor. After all year, I finally decided to fix it, since I do want to play again, or just have normal function of my knee without the worry of it going out at any time, like it had before. I had ACL graft with a cadaver ligament and Patella Reconstruction done on Dec 6th.. (xrays showed my knee caps were off center on both my knees) The first couple of days were good, because my leg was numb. The next were hell to say the least because of my foot. I went in for my post op visit the next morning after surgery, asked the doc if I could walk, or to keep weight off of it for awhile, and he said walk on it. So I did, with the use of crutches of course for leaning on, and I think I might have over did it. (although all I did was gimp around the house a bit each day) My foot and ankle swelled up to at least 2 times the normal size, and bruised badly. (I mean BADLY, I heard your shin bruises, mine did very minimully but man my foot looked like I broke it) So that took forever for the bruising to go down so I could at least put weight on my foot.(1.5 weeks for that to heal). I used a CPM machine for the first 7 days to move my knee for me, got up to 100 degree flexion, and I had an Iceman machine to ice my knee for the first week. I still have the Iceman, and if you have surgery, I suggest this machine. You fill it up with ice and water, and a waterpack wraps around your knee and keeps it iced for however long you keep it on there. The ice lasts most of the day. Much better than trying to ice it with ziplock baggies, or other means that slip off. Now its been almost 3 weeks, I still walk with my brace on, slowly, but without the use of crutches. I live in Alaska, so it is snowing now, and I sometimes use them for extra support on the uneven snowy ground, which hurts to walk over. It hurts to move my knee in sideways motion, or when I slip a little. I still walk with a limp without the brace on, which I dont wear when I am at home. The exercizes I am confused about, I understand the importancy of them, but if they hurt to do, I dont see anyone wanting to do it. My doctor did not send me to a PT, he just gave me 4 or 5 home excersizes to do, and not to do squats or anything too weight bearing. Right now I can finally do leg lifts when sitting on the edge of my bed, sometimes the front of my knee hurts when I do them though, and I can squeeze the heck out of a pillow in-between my legs, but my main problem is the flexion exersize. I still feel tight in my knee when I pull it close to my chest, I dont know what the angle is, but I am about 6-7 inches off the distance to my butt. I feel like it is taking forever for my knee to feel normal again..I know it has only been 3 weeks, but I am tired of wearing the brace, and limping, or having the uncomfortable feeling in my knee. Especially if I sit to long at work, and my knee stiffens. I cannot say my knee is PAINFUL, just very uncomfortable at times. Seems like after a shower, it stiffens from the heat. The only pain I feel is if I move my knee in a way that pings a sensitive spot, The top of my knee is still sensitive, and I massage my knee every day so I dont have bad scarring, plus try to keep the knee cap movable. I have no idea how I am doing, my doctor did not schedule another follow up visit since I live 50 miles from him, but I think I might go in and see him soon, just to make sure I am on the right track..

Kelly
December 27, 2006 11:01 AM

Doctor's visit today. Suture removal and I graduated to the hinged brace. Found out there will be an additional 2 more weeks on crutches! No weight bearing for 2 more weeks. I will start PT next Wednesday. A friend told me to take advil before PT to help with discomfort. My ankle is still swollen but the PA told me it looked great. (of course she's the one who lied about everything else.) Best of all I can finally take a (short) shower tomorrow!

runningAl
December 28, 2006 4:58 PM

I somehow think acl rehab is very age dependent. Lots of folks who had it - gave me the impression it is is a quick 6-10 week rehab - but they were in their early thirties and atleast two dozen years more to reach me! I'm in the 5th month of rehab. Have total Range of Motion but failed miserably on the Kin-Con eval. I've run through 30 physio therapy sessions so far and exercise like a maniac in the gym. Both my quads and hams were 50% off from the good leg. The Doc was not pleased with my progress and indicated I needed to isolate the left leg during the leg press and do more hamstring and quad muscle building exercises. I can walk down a flight of steps fairly easily. But as yet can't climb without assistance of a rail. I've started workouts on a stair climber and it seems to help some. I was hoping to start jogging by new year's but that seems like a far cry still. I've not given up yet but it does seem like a big uphill battle quite unlike anything anyone with previous experience ever mentioned! My advice would be to keep a positive attitude. Work hard at it at home or if you have a gym membership then put in the time. Progress is directly proportional to the workouts. My goal is to get back to active running. I'm an avid runner and have done 6 marathon's since I discovered the sport and can't wait to get back to it.

Michelle
December 29, 2006 5:26 PM

My 16 year old daughter was just told today that she needs this surgery, any suggestions for her (or me)? I guess my one question is how many people have returned to aggressive sports? Are you able to participate? Part of me doesn't want her to continue with cheering next year if she has this surgery. The other part of me feels like that's why we're doing it. Thanks for your input. Happy NewYear.

Ryan
December 29, 2006 8:29 PM

Michelle, The way that I was told is that you can break it down into thirds. 1- will feel somewhat normal 2- Sometimes good sometimes bad 3- Need surgery. If she ever wants to cheer or play any sports than she should. The only thing that is avaible to do is run... plus if she doesn't there is a chance of arthretis in her knee as she gets older. I'm 2 weeks into recovery and I can't wait to play sports again...in 6 months.

Leslie
December 29, 2006 9:46 PM

week 4 plus 2 days I'm feeling great. Hard to believe that 1 month ago i was on crutches, locked in my immobilizer, hooked up to my iceman and on painkillers non stop. What a difference 4 weeks makes. I am sooo happy I did so much prehab before surgery. I bounced back very fast apres surgery due to all the leg strenghtening prior to surgery. I am walking like I had no surgery, although I do have a little swelling still around the incision. The incision is completely healed and has been for 3 weeks, but underneath at times it is still tender. I am doing PT agressively 3x a week. Doing stairs one foot at a time is no problem. My protocal is fairly agressive. bike 30 minutes on level 8, hills, a lot of balance work on the tetter board catching medicine balls, then balancing on one leg. Doing bridges using big ball. Leg lifts with weights, Leg press about 70 pounds and heel lifts on leg press. Still gait training to iron out little hitches. I'm psyched that I'm ahead in the schedule. And it has less to do with my age (48) then it has to do with my attitude and desire to do as much work to get back to normal. Although i won't be skiing this season :-( ( I won't until I've healed for 12 months) at least i can get back to my workouts 5 or 6 days a week. I still need to get my ROM improved. I always had 0 extention, but I'm 122 (with no CPM, my doc doesn't use them). I have to do more stretching and heel slides to imporove that. i want to be at 130 this coming week. Keep positive and things will improve quickly. Wishing all better knees in 2007

Kelly
December 30, 2006 5:32 AM

Leslie. I am so jealous. I'm at Day 11. I worked yesterday (Good for my mental health), had some ankle swelling so I iced at lunch. I am still on crutches- no weight bearing for 3 weeks. I start PT next wednesday AM. I am numb (palm sized area) from my hamstring area to the oustide of my leg. When does that dissappear? My work schedule will only allow for 2 PT sessions a week. I plan on doing what I can at home for a third session. Any suggestions? Michelle, Your daughter is young so I would go ahead with the surgery. At her age it will be a piece of cake and whether she returns to cheering or participates in other sports can be detrmined later. If she goes along with the torn ACL she will be limited in choices and in danger of further damage to the meniscus. I had very strong support in my knee from playing soccer, snowboarding etc and this is helping my recovery according to the MD. Good luck.

Leslie
December 30, 2006 10:04 PM

Kelly, That's good you went to work to get your mind off of your knee. I also went back on the second week as well. Every surgeon is different and has their own protocol. I was able to bear weight 24 hours after my surgery and the femoral block wore off. But unlike a lot of people I was not given a CPM machine. I was locked in my brace until I saw my doc 4 days later. There are a lot of exercises that you can do at home. I'm sure your PT will give you the list. It varies as the weeks go on and is also dependant on how you are healing and also the degree of swelling. Either way there is a good book that has a lot of exercises in it specific for knees. I wouldn't do any unless I spoke to your PT first but I think it's a great book to have as a resource. And it has pictures. "The Knee Crisis Hanbook" Hang in there and just stay positive, I'm sure you're doing great.

Yulia
December 31, 2006 3:28 PM

Alex richards: I take it that you had knee surgery. I hope you feel better. You did not mention what you did to your knee. I am sure you'll be better soon. ACL surgery requires alot of rehab and time and patience. As for the scar question that you had. It is normal for it to be pink/purple. I have scars on both of my knees and they still are pinky color because I got sun burned in april 06 (had baby oil on me). i was tanning the rest of my skin. If you want to know how I hurt my knee, You may email me to get all the details of it. I hurt it Last October 2005 and December 25 2005. What did me in was The Injury on december 25 2005, I was dancing, twisted the knee, popped and gave out and hurt. I did not have that much swelling in it. Ever since then it is worse. I've been doing PT on it for 9 plus months and I am still doing PT for it. it did not help the stability of the knee. Nobody believes that I hurt my knee and they make fun of me for it. I can still do some things with it. Happy New year and Best wishes. your knee will be better. Yulia Email is alianna_hodiya@yahoo.com

Stephanie
January 2, 2007 6:59 PM

I just had my surgery today, 1/2/07. I had a complete tear of my ACL and tears in both the medial and Lateral minicus cartilage. i go back to my Doc. on thursday. I am right now hooked up to an EBIce thing that is practallly my best friend. I am in a 6/10 amount of pain which isn't so bad i guess. Does anybody have any hint on how to shower though..i can't shower till thursday but i was just wondering??????? Thanks:)

Jessica
January 2, 2007 7:55 PM

Stephanie, On Dec. 27, 2006, I too had ACL replacement and medial & laterial miniscus repairs. I am on crutches for 6 weeks with no weight on this leg. One way to shower is to have someone stand in there with you and just help you balance. Might not always be an ideal situation but it works. There are also shower benches available that would also make it easier. Also, wrap your knee with saran wrap and put a piece of tape around the top. This will keep the incision dry. Hang in there. A week out I am experiencing very little pain other than when moving wrong or pushing too hard on the exercises. After previously having ACL/miniscus surgery on my other leg I know that rehab is the key. Be diligent but don't push too fast. Good Luck!

shirl
January 3, 2007 12:54 AM

i also had knee surgery 10- 05 i stepped in a hole and fell i tore my acl this was 9 mo. earlier finally i couldnt take it any longer after pt. ,inj.,and loss of work i decided to have the surgery i have had nothing but pain since then they started my inj. again for swelling and pain 3 mos. later it went out i have instability and pain still.im fixing to have another surgery 2 12 07 and im afraid the same thing will happen again this dr said their was nothing left in my knee he thinks my body rejected the graph so now i have to have 3 just to correct this one remove the old hardware,fill in the holes with bone marrow ,take graph from my thigh ,and then go from my petela down he said it was the old fashioned way ? has anyone else had a problem with rejection or their acl. surgery not working my screw is sticking out 3 threads on my x-rays but the doc. that did it says theirs nothing he can do ive had 2 rejections from other surgeons they dont want anything to do with it.its that messed up i did find the one that specializes in do overs just afraid to have to go through it again i was off work 12 weeks before im terrified to go through this again but i cant handle the instability i've fell 3 times it just goes out on me i dont know when its going to happen. any suggestions ...drdycus@cvok.net

leslie
January 3, 2007 2:23 PM

Stephanie: Hopefully you are over the hump. The first night of surgery and 1/2 of the next day were the worse for me. Everyones different though. It will get better from here on, so hang in there. Try to enjoy time on the couch. I found hanging on the couch better and more comfortable than hanging in the bed all day. I also found it easier sleeping. Somehow having the back of the couch to lean on even with the brace (immobolizer on) I was able to sleep, where I had more problem in the bed. I couldn't shower for 4 days after my surgery, so I before hand I had bought sponges and did sponge baths. I don't have a stall shower, just the bathtub kind, so I wasn't able to go into that until week 2 1/2. The sponge bath thing worked fine for me until I went to see my doctor. I wasn't able to take my immobilizer off until my doctors visit, so I wrapped a towel around my leg so it didn't get wet and did the sponge thing. The first 4 days i pretty much hung in the house, so it wasn't like I was getting so sweaty. I was able to get my incision wet after the 4th day because I was healed already. Then I used the gym, and the handicapped shower and sat, for safety's sake. I also used a shower chair (you can also use a cheap plastic outdoor chair to sit in when you're in the shower as well, they work fine). In the beginning it's safety first. So sit until you feel comfortable standing. And always make sure you have a towe so you don't slip when you get out. I wore my crocs in the shower so i didn't slip for the first 3 weeks. I am now in week 5 and are doing great. Walking with no visible limp. stairs etc. I go to PT 3x a week and today we just added the elliptical. I am allowed to do it on my own for 15 minutes and the bike for 30, so I almost have a workout I can do by myself where i can at least break a sweat. I have been doing upper body since week 1, at least it something. My PT's big thing is slowing me down. I am use to working out 5-6x a week so slowing it down is tough. Today we did a lot on the leg press, balancing catching the ball on one leg, a lot of leg lifts with added stim. Heel lifts etc. For you gals who just had the surgery, stay positive. Your head has a lot to do with the rehab. And do what they tell you. The home exercises are important. If you're not doing those yet. Ankle pumping is good to keep up the circulation. You will progress quickly, just hang in there. And Stephanie, I hope you're feeling beter and I hope the shower info helped. If you have any other questions, don't hestitate the ask. Happy New Knees in 2007!

Crystal
January 6, 2007 11:50 AM

Hi, I've got a few questions for those that have had this surgery done. 1. How long was it until you were able to drive again? I'm having surgery on my right knee and my doctor told me that I would be able to drive after the 3rd day again at the soonest and the latest would be a week. I've had other people tell me this isn't true so I'm not sure what to expect. My husband has already booked a week off work and knows he'll be chauffering me to my classes for a few days but after that I'm on my own. I have also been dealing with ACL tears and damage to my knee for the last 6 years, finally went to a new surgeon that agreed that I shouldn't have to be in PT every 1.5 years after I reinjur it. 2. How often has physio been recommended for most of you? 3. Is a locking brace a must have? All I was told was that I needed was a brace and the one I have already doesn't lock it just wraps around the knee and actually most of my leg since I'm a tad short! lol 4. For pain wise, would this be more than the pain of a scope and scrape or about the same? I have a high tolerance to pain. With my scope and scrape I felt fine till the 3rd day when I ended up having to use a cane to get around. I assumed my biggest problem with that was I was out at the lakes and I got chilled that night in the cabin while we were sleeping because the rest of me was nearly as stiff as my knee. Thanks for your guys help and keep working on those knees! Crystal

leslie
January 7, 2007 3:40 PM

Cystal To answer your questions: -Driving: i think it depends on how your knee is feeling and what your range of motion is at the time. I think 3 days might be pushing it. It was tough for me to get in a car and sit without having my leg elevated for a couple of weeks. Keeping it down for a length of time was just uncomfortable, so I hung in the back seat for at least 2 weeks with my leg on the set. I don't think I would have felt comfortable driving until the end of week 2. And I had a fast recop. You also have to think about being able to get yourslef in and out of the car and your crutch situation. Don't compare this to Arthroscopic surgery. It just isn't the same. -Brace: I think that depends on your surgeon. We all hated to wear our braces.I had an immobilizer brace. Went from the top of my thigh to my ankle. And I'm also short (5'1") So I can't tell you how uncomfortable it and I was. I was locked for 4 days at 0 and week 2, I was locked in at 40 degrees. I had to sleep with it for 2=2 1/2 weeks, some people have to wear it longer. Again it depends on your PT and surgeon. -PT: Again, it depends. From most of what I have read, Most people do PT when \they get clearance about 3x a week until they bring you down to 2x then 1x. I am week 5 rehab and I am still doing 3x, I will go down to 2x on my 3rd month. I am coming back quickly but i find PT has helped immensely. It also depends on how many sessions your insurance allows you. I do suggest you DO do PT especially with an ACL. It's realy important for the range, flexsion etc. to have help. I'm a pretty can do person and I also have been though it many times, but even though I knew most of what the protocol was you need the stim and the ice espically woth an ACL reconstruction. -Pain: This was my first ACL recontruction. I have had 2 other surgeries-one on each knee. Both were arthroscopic.Medial meniscus on one, lateral on the other. Can not compare the pain what so ever. Arthroscopic by comparisson is a breeze. I was only uncomfortable with my other 2 surgeries, never in real Pain. I was also on Advil day 2 of both my arthroscopics and I also have a high tolerance for pain. ACL surgery is major surgery. Even though you are out patient, which i still think is somewhat ridiculous due to pain management. I was in a lot of pain the first night after my nerve block wore off. More pain than I ever experienced. The day after was also bad. Even though i was very prepared for my surgery ( I worked out religiously for 3-4 months prior to) I still had pain and swelling in the weeks after surgery. You just can't compare it to what you've had before. Everyone is different, but i don't realy recall anyone telling me who has had ACL surgery that it was not painful. But you ALSO get through it, so don't worry. The pain is the worse the night of and the day after. -I recommned getting a good PT prior to surgery and having a session so he/she can give you some exersizes for prehab and fill you in on what to expect. And get the knee in shape. It will pay off amazingly. I am so ahead in my PT, I feel like I am on the same schedule that I was on as far as rehab, that I was on for my arthroscopic surgeries. And it's not that I am pushing myself or coming back too quickly..it's just that i really got into prehab shape for the surgery and it helped with everything. I will say that being through a knee surgery before did help me. Your body already knows how to heal so that helps. Also having to manuver around with one bad knee is something I remember so even though I never was in crutches until this time, it didn't feel all that strange or unfamilair to me. There a lot of things you can get ahead of time to make things (the rehab) a little easier. Renting an elevated toilet seat, getting a plastic chair for the shower. Organizing your home...things that you didn't neccesarily have to do for the other surgeries. This one takes you longer to walk around, so it takes longer and is a little harder to do for yourself. You will probably be on crutches for a couple of weeks. Maybe not. I got rid of mine week 2. Anyway, prepare yourself and your body and mind and you will do Okay. Getting psyched in your mind, being positive etc. really helps. Good luck, I hope that helped. Leslie

paulete
January 9, 2007 6:40 PM

Hi, i enjoyed reading all your stories and questions, i have a 95% torn acl and have just finished rehab from menicus surgery#2, They found the ACL problem in the last scope the unstable knee is rubbing off pieces of meniscus and causing trouble. i have been in therapy for over 3mo. I feel this would be a good time to make the decisioin to have the acl fixed before i shear off more cartlidge and have none. I am 51 year old female, a nurse in the busy ER. I feel i should fix my ACL and gain my confidence in moving freely again. ANyone have a partial tear and anyone a bit older. I plan to return to hiking on uneven ground, walking the golf course. I am feeling a bit confused on the nessecity of this adventure. But i have already had injections, braces and plenty of PT. I am blessed to have great insurance. Any comments out there and anyone feel that this is so very elective... paulette

Jimmy
January 9, 2007 9:28 PM

i tore my ACL on march 3rd, went through 6 weeks of therapy, then returned to track half way through season (did fine except not being in shape...) after soccer this fall i decided to have the allograft surgery done, which took place on october 25th (the week following soccer districts, so i was in decent shape going into it). i could ride a stationary bike on level 3 at about 80 rpm for 10 minutes 5 days after, walk with a slight limp that week and my surgeon was very impressed with my mobility and flexion/extension at the first post-op appointment. i just finished PT last week, and my surgeon said i can start running but no cutting/pivoting yet. i can easily average 125+ rpm on a bike on level 3 for ten minutes...leg press 50 lbs about 135 reps in 3 minutes...run 4 miles in about 25-28 minutes without pain/incident (except minor swelling afterwards). anyone have any suggestions as to when i can start running at faster paces? (i.e. sprinting, and eventually 300 hurdles in [hopefully] march/april...my target times for the coming season for the 100 dash and 300 hurdles are 11.3 and 38.5, respectively, if that helps)

chris
January 10, 2007 4:03 PM

Ok I has surgery on Friday and I am still unable to stand vertically. I am still in a tramendous amount of pain.I also can't move the lower part of my leg. Is it possible for the nerve block to last 5 days. All I can do is lay in bed getting up to go to the bathroom is something I am in constant fear of even though I have crutches and don't put any weight on it it Kills. Is this abnormal? I don't know because I have nothing to compare it to. This is no fun an dI have never felt this much pain. HOw long does the pain usually last and what is the normal timeframe to be mobile with crutches. The doctor told me to do exercises as soon as possable. Every time I do them I break into a cold sweat and suffer a lot. Fun Level is low

Cookie
January 10, 2007 9:38 PM

Hello to Michelle back on Dec. 29th, 2006 My daughter, like yours also tore her ACL but when she was 15 yrs. old last Feb...she is now 16 and doing well. I had those same feelings...after all of this should I encourage her to go back to sports. She was playing basketball when her ACL tore...she is/was very good...she was in her Freshman Year and was moved up to Varsity and starting every game..she ran down the court came to a sudden jump stop to shoot and fell down, a girl on her team had the same thing happen just the week before...so we knew the routine...what a nightmare..She had ACL Surgery Feb. 27, 2006.I felt it was my job after surgery and before to make sure she thought about life after H.S. Sports..she is/was on the H.S. Danceteam and member of another dance class..did volleyball and track....so during rehab I was constently asking if she for sure wanted to go back to this..or just play it safe and keep her newly reconstructed knee "safer" by not doing all that she use to do. She got kind of upset with me and told me she neeed me to support her. She did set out volleyball this year and worked hard to get her knee/leg back in shape...it is now basketball season and she is back to starting on the Varsity Team...she wears a big brace while playing and knee pads on both knees and wears the brace under her dance pants while dancing also. She is still a little timid about playing like she use to and not as aggressive and admits the thought of driving down the lane to the bucket and doing a jump shot is a bit scarry...but she is doing just fine and little by little she is getting back to her old self..it's tough on mom watching too. I think the best thing for your daughter is to get back into w/e she was doing before she hurt her knee. She could have or could hurt her knee again...but not by having fun doing cheerleading..but just walking and tripping..so my advice is to let her have something to look forward to and get her back into her sports that she did pre-ACL surgery. Keep me posted. Good luck to you and all the rest who might read this..there is light at the end of the tunnel...even though sometimes you may not think so. Cookie

Olga Kubarovskaia
January 11, 2007 1:26 PM

Hi everybody! My name is Olga. It's been today 12 days since my skiing injury. I have torn my ACL on left knee and my surgery is scheduled for January, 22. Because I'm 58 years old, my doctor said that it's up to me to do surgery or not. After some discussions I decided that I am not ready to slow down yet in my life. I'm not too old. I'm not very active athlete, but I like hiking, skiing, swimming in ocean's waves, dancing in high-heeled shoes. So, had somebody the same problem in the same age or near? I would love to hear from some of you about your experience and will so appreciate any your recommendations.

Ryan
January 11, 2007 3:31 PM

In response to Chris and your pain: I had ACL reconst. and both medial and lateral meniscus tears repaired last Wed. (1/3/07) I don't seem to be experiencing near the intensity of pain that you are in. I assume you've been elevating and icing on a frequent basis, but have you noticed the swelling subside? I've iced/elevated heavily and managed the pain when intollerable with percocet, but have been able to ditch the crutches (day 5) and wobble in to my office. I hope your pain subsides and you see your Dr. ASAP. The pain shouldn't be that bad. I saw 3 of my surgeon's ACL patients at their post-op appts. and none of them described your type of pain either. Sorry to hear you are in tough shape.

Jennifer
January 12, 2007 11:38 AM

Regarding Chris and the pain you're in right now, I can certainly feel for you. My pain was constant and lasted for 3 weeks straight. I was on oxycodone but it didn't seem to do anything to help. Many people say ice helps - and it did. But only AFTER the first two weeks. I had a polar unit that circulated ice water around my knee but for the first 2 weeks it did NOTHING to help subside the pain. The constant pain and lack of sleep (I was up every two hours because of the pain) can definitely wear you down. And hearing about other people's experiences being much easier didn't help the situation at all. But after three weeks the pain began subsiding. I began to experience short lengths of time where my knee was actually pain-free and those periods became longer and longer. So hang in there. It will get better.

Tamara
January 17, 2007 7:06 PM

Hi, I'm finally just getting my knee fixed from an injury I suffered right before a graduated from RCMP training. Of course they sent me home, anyway it's been 4 years now and I'm tired of it going out on me all the time, I've reinjured and reinjured it so probable not much there. Anyway I was just interested in finding out how long I will be off work for. Oh my meniscus is torn as well. I work at a desk job but am up and down all day. Bank Job now. Any help would be great. Tammy

James
January 17, 2007 10:04 PM

Leslie, thanks for the advice. I am at week five post ACL repair (allograft) and tears to both medial and lateral meniscus. I am just beginning to walk but haven't completely gotten clear of the crutches yet. I am also a victim of indoor soccer as so many seem to be. I planted my right foot and tried to cut right at full speed and felt a "pop" and some pain. After 6 years of rehab and re-injuring the knee several times...my advice to those who are very active and considering the surgery is to consider this surgery earlier rather than later. I am 40 years old now and because I am very active with soccer, backpacking, baseball and being a firefighter, I regret not being more agressive with this sooner. Sometimes life and family seem to make you lean towards living with an injury rather than fixing it as I did. I can finally get through a day without Ibuprofen or some other pain med. The meniscus tears are the reason for the long period with crutches. I now have good range of motion with my leg and I'm working to regrain strength. I do still have swelling in my knee that is tolerable but I am working on it with elevation and now I'm going to return to ice which really helps. I understand that this is part of the healing process. I am looking forward to competing again in sports and getting back to work. Most of all, I look forward to putting on a my backpack and hiking with my brothers in the high Sierras again. I haven't been able to do that for a while. That will drive my rehab. Good luck to so many of you in the rehab or getting ready for this surgery. Thanks to Adam for the forum to communicate with others.

Stacy
January 18, 2007 1:12 AM

Hi everyone, I am 34 and having my ACL and Cartilidge repair surgery in one week! I am scared a little... mostly of the surgery itself and a little of the pain afterwards. I have a house cleaning business and tore my ACL while stepping onto a wet floor! WOOPS! This happened back in May of 2006 and I was hoping my knee wouldnt require surgery but after all this time and a bunch of times where my knee would pop and then I would be in tons of pain, I opted for the surgery. I want to get back to my house cleaning asap and I was told I was being optomistic by saying I would be back to cleaning after 6 weeks... Im pretty stubborn and VERY active and hate sitting still so I am hoping to recover quickly. I would love to have a buddy to talk to who has had this surgery and get some opinions and be able to share my experiance and anxieties with before and after my sugery. My email is poodlehugs@aol.com Feel free to contact me if you have the time. Thanks Stacy

Kat
January 18, 2007 10:42 AM

Yesterday I found out that my 17 year old daughter has torn her ACL and will be having surgery. The Orthopedic doctor said it will be at least 6 months before she can play sports again....she is heartbroken as she is a track star at her high school.... I am concerned about the surgery and recovery time. She is not one to sit by and let herself heal.... Any suggestions?

shahira
January 21, 2007 8:52 PM

I am a squash player and I tore my ACL on the squash court...the classic pop, the swelling, etc. 3 months later, I had my ACL reconstructed. Its now been 3 months, I can still not come down the stairs except one at a time...no running, squash, etc. Funny thing is the swelling is still there an now there is a curious number of clicks every time I bend and extend. My doctor has put me on Naproxen to bring down the swelling so lets see what that does. In the interim, I am cycling (stationary) and trying to work on my hams and quads. Oh yes, put on weight already! cant wait to get back on the court, especially since I have to watch my son play in tournements and not play myself! Hoping to get back on the court in the next few months. Cheers.

marcus davidson
January 22, 2007 9:31 AM

I tore my acl in august at football practice during two a days. I took two blows to the knee tearing my acl along with my meniscus. I had surgery 3 months later. I am almost two months into therapy and i am already jogging and doin what most people can't this early. The biggest thing i did before i went into surgery was to keep my quad muscle strong before i had the surgery to make the therapy lots easier when i came out.To fully recover faster than possible do everything the therapist tells you whether you think it's dumb or not cause many little things help when gettin this surgery done.

teresa
January 22, 2007 5:46 PM

I'm just about 3 weeks post op of ACL reconstruction for an injury I got playing rugby about a year and a half ago. I intended to only use my hamstring, but the ligament wasn't good enough so they had to use an allograft along with it as well. I haven't been having a lot of pain aside from about the first week after surgery. I'm still on crutches with the brace, but I can put a significant amount of weight on my leg. I also just started using the stationary bike last week in the gym, but I can only last a few minutes, then my knee starts to feel weak. My quad muscles are GONE, it's amazing how fast they diminish after surgery. My physical therapist says I should be off crutches but still have the brace by next week. I hope that prediction is true because I go back to school on Sunday and I live on a hill, and crutches and hills do not mix.

Dan Carter
January 23, 2007 5:34 AM

Hi, I had my ACL reconstructed on Jan 17th and had the hamstring graft. I have got to be honest, i was quite nervous before the op, as a keen sportsman the thought of doing nothing for a few months bores me senseless! I had a partial tera of my acl 4 years ago, but worked hard on my leg muscles and it was ok (ish). I then fell off a quad bike in South Africa and completely tore it! My wife was really pleased! When back in the UK, i thought that it didnt hurt that much, so had a cheeky game of Sunday League football. I didnt walk for two weeks after and had a coke cans worth (330ml) of fluid drained from my knee! That hurt, some said i was stupid! Prior to my op i had a couple of physio appointments. Luckily my physio has had the same op, so he has a pretty good idea what he is going on about. He recommended that i do lots of work on my hamstrings before the op, as the stronger they are the easier it will be. Had the Op on the 17th, had ice on the swelling every day, and kept it above my heart as much as possible. Its now the 23rd and the majority of the swelling is gone. I am still on crutches but can put my full weight on the leg, nut i am still nervous of it. Despite my best efforts though, the more i read, i dont think that i will be back on the rugby pitch for at least 6-9 months! Oh well, best of luck to fellow knackered knee personnell! Just remember 'all top sportsman have this injury'! (Johnny Wilkinson, Martin Johnson, Alan Shearer, Simon Jones and Gazza!) Dan

Lisa
January 23, 2007 7:34 AM

Kat-my daughter was 16 this past August when she tore her ACL without any of the classic signs in a pre-season soccer game. The WORST part was before the surgery and watching the whole season without playing and worrying about the surgery. Nothing but time and support can help them through that. Believe it or not the easiest part was the surgery and after. I researched a lot and the biggest thing I kept telling her was to strengthen the quad before the surgery. She got both quads really strong and I think this is what helped her recovery. She got full range of motion back almost immediately and is way ahead in the therapy. There were 2 days after the surgery that she had pain and was pretty miserable. It is important to stay on top of the pain even if they don't have any that first week. Make sure she does the exercises after the surgery that first week even though they seem monotonous because the sooner her range comes back the better. She also needs to understand that no matter how quickly or not she recovers she will not be able to play sports for at least 6 months because it takes the graft that long to heal. Being confident in your surgeon is also a big thing. If she wants to talk to someone who went through it let me know! Good luck!!

Cookie
January 25, 2007 12:14 AM

Reply to Kat & Lisa, My daughter is 16 also..tore her ACL at 15 last Feb. I agree with Lisa...it takes "at least" 6 months or more to recover and begin to come back. My daughter started practicing basketball at 8 months post surgery and the doctor told her not to go 100% until 9 to 10 months...it will be 1 year the end of February. She is not the same yet and was still starting on the Varsity Team...until today...she came home saying she thinks she's lost her spot...the coach talked to her about what might be wrong...(he tore his ACL a few years ago you'd think he know what was wrong) anyway...she's heartbroke...she'll just have to work harder or consider not playing any more at the end of this year if it is going to bring her down. As a mom I'm concerned about the health of her knee and the other knee that is not reconstructed because they say if you tear one of your ACL's that it is common to have the same accident in the other knee. Has anyone had this experience?...I know two people that have. So if you've just had surgery set your goals but if you don't succeed right away...don't get down keep trying. I'm going to try and encourage but also keep reminding her that there is life after basketball and other sports that she does. (-: Hang in there!!

Lisa
January 25, 2007 6:51 AM

Cookie-did your daughter just tear the acl or did she tear any meniscus with it?? I know what you mean about the other acl-I will need valium when my daughter starts soccer again. Is your daughter scared to play the way she used to, or is she just not ready?? As far as tearing the other acl-I've heard of people doing it too even though they tell you the odds are small.

Suzie Lopes
January 25, 2007 1:32 PM

I tore my ACL in Feb 06 while skiing for the very first time in my 36 years :-( I was having a ball and was coming down the mountain at the end of my lesson when I hit a bumpy patch of snow and I fell and twisted my knee. I felt the pop and lost all control of my knee instantly. My poor son was at the bottom of the mt watching me get up and fall, get up and fall.. Anyway.. I finally decided to get the surgery because I was a jogger and ran a 5k in Oct and my knee was so swollen that I knew I had to do something.. so on 1/4/07 I went for my surgery. They also had to repair my meniscus (which I was not aware was torn). It's now been three weeks and I'm off my crutches - they actually told me to get off them when I went for my post op only 5 days after surgery. I have to wear the immobilizer brace when I walk. Physical therapy is helping.. it still hurts when I bend my knee feels like it's tearing, but it's getting better. I have a cruise planned for April and hope to be much further along so I can keep up with the rest of the families we are going with. I had hoped I could go zip lining and such, but may have to rethink all those fun things. We shall see.

Ben
January 26, 2007 1:51 PM

I'm 32 years old... and have not yet gone to get my ACL tears reconstructed... I have to finish building a house before I do. Both of my knees have complete tears. I was wondering if anyone else has experienced the added complication of needing surgery in both knees... my doctor will only operate on one at a time.. any thoughts ? advice ? experience? thanks... Ben

Ben
January 26, 2007 2:06 PM

Ben again.... I just wanted to add that I get these like knee " wobbles " when I work and sometimes collapses where I lose my balance. I also feel crunching and and grinding in my knees even with minimal motion. Does anyone know of excercises that have helped them strengthen their knees in cases like mine where I have to keep working in a physically demanding profession? Any help or advice is much appreciated.... thanks

Roxanne<3
January 27, 2007 12:18 PM

hey...im 16...i tore my acl in june && had surgery sept 13...today is 4 1/2 months...i desperatly want to return to basketball... like right noww...im going to see the doctor in 2 days... is there any chance that i can be released after 4 1/2 months???

Roxanne<3
January 27, 2007 12:18 PM

hey...im 16...i tore my acl in june && had surgery sept 13...today is 4 1/2 months...i desperatly want to return to basketball... like right noww...im going to see the doctor in 2 days... is there any chance that i can be released after 4 1/2 months???

Cheryl
January 27, 2007 8:11 PM

My son has played all sorts of sports for years. One month before his 15th birthday fall of 2005 the first play of the football game tore his acl (friendly fire). Shortly after we had it replaced. The doctor told us it would be best to use a donor. This seemed logical and we all agreed. He started back wrestling Jan 2007 The first week we had 3 matches everything was going great State Finals were coming up the first week of Feb. POP! Lying on the mat the match is called and the trainer checked him out and he seems to think it is a pulled muscle. The next day we go to the Alabama Sports Medicine group sit in the waiting room with all types of people old and young pro's jetted in from all over. The doctor quickly tells us that it is in need of repair. A few days later the MRI confirms. He also tells us that he never recomments at my sons age using a donor. This is heart breaking. What do you do? Donor your own? While at the doctor's office my son told him he was going to finish the wrestling season. That was this weekend. My son Brandon the trooper tough guy was able to wear his Donjoy brace. It had to be covered. He wrestled Friday nite. Saddly the coaches strategy is to go for the obvious "GET EM WEAR THEY HURT". Were not going to State but he hung. Our surgery is Feb. the 9th and I hope we've made the right choice for my son. He'd like to wrestle his senior year.

Scott
January 29, 2007 12:49 PM

Hi All, I had my left ACL reconstructed 2.5 weeks ago and am currently in recovery mode. I am happy to say there is not too much pain, just lingering stiffness and soreness. My physical therapist is happy with my recovery and thinks I have enough quad strength to not wear the brace (I am currently walking with a cane). Obviously I would prefer to not wear the brace ever again because it is awful. However, the doctor recommended wearing it for 4 weeks. Does anyone have any input or knows what could happen if I don't wear the brace? Thanks.

Adam Kalsey
January 29, 2007 2:05 PM

The primary reason for the brace is not to support the knee, but to protect it. If you were to fall and the knee were to twist, you may damage the graft. Wearing the brace prevents this by preventing movement of the knee.

Stephanie
January 29, 2007 2:12 PM

i have recently found out that i have torn my acl and both of my meniscus's im so nervous about starting physical therapy and having surgery. i really want it to get better but im not looking forward to not being able to play sports for 7 to 9 months. i really wanted to try out for high school soccer but now i cant do it so im really sad about just eveything. But i cant wait to get better and start playing againg. i was wondering though did you start playing sports again and do you have porblems with it still today even afer having surgery. Stephanie

Robert
January 29, 2007 8:23 PM

Hey Stephanie! I'm sorry to hear about your injury. I tore my ACL a year ago. I also played soccer in High school. Now that I am in college I haven't tried to play competitively yet. But I was told to run and jog as much as I can to build my leg back up to strength for about a year after the surgery. I'm almost ready to get back to the BEST SPORT IN THE WORLD! :) Hope all goes well with your recovery! You will be back like BRAND NEW in no time I promise! If you or anyone else ever needs any help, I am an studying Athletic Training and Pre-Physical therapy at college so I would be glad to try and answer any questions you have. Plus, I went through the same surgery, so I can answer questions about that too! :) e-mail - rjbonser0@frostburg.edu GOOD LUCK!!

leslie
January 30, 2007 8:42 PM

Hi all: Just an update. 9 weeks recop ACL recon surgery. Allograft. After strength test which consisted of single leg on leg press to compare new acl vs other knee, New ACL is only 15% weaker than other. Since PTherapist was so pleased, he put me on the treadmill and had me run 4.5, which is alot for me I'm ony 5'1", and I did 1/3 of a mile. He said it was amazing how far ahead in the progress I was. This is NOT considered coming back too quickly. I worked out like crazy for 3 1/2 months prior to ACL surgery. For anyone scheduled for surgery, i can't express how important PREHAB is. Even one visit to the PT way before your surgery so you can get appropriate exercizes will make you feel soo much better and it does really impact how quickly you come back. I understand that some people do not have the luxury of time with swelling issues and recent tears. However, If you can do it I really recommend it. I did not loose very much muscle tone in the few days i was laid up on the couch. You can read some of my back postings. I am 48, not thin by any means unfort. yet very strong and athletic. I am 1 month ahead in my PT due to prehab. You will also feel better faster. This was my first ACL surgery, but I have had 2 arthroscopics.One n each knee. I also do not have an ACL in my other knee, but I'm, stable. Good luck to all with their upcoming surgeries and all others in their progress in PT.

Jessica (ski accident)
February 2, 2007 1:33 PM

I want to thank you for your site. I am having the reconstruction using my hamstring too, and I have found very few sites that cover that type. I go in for surgery in two weeks and in just a few paragraphs, you provided me with all the info and guidance I was looking for. Hopefully everything goes as well for me as it seems to have for you. Thanks again!

TJ
February 3, 2007 9:58 PM

Hey, I'm really glad that i found this page. it's answered a lot of questions that i've had and been needing to ask my doctor. i go in for surgery at the end of march. One thing that i've really been worried about is weight loss. has anyone found that they have had a significant amount of weight loss after the acl surgery?

TJ
February 3, 2007 10:01 PM

Hey, I'm really glad that i found this page. it's answered a lot of questions that i've had and been needing to ask my doctor. i go in for surgery at the end of march. One thing that i've really been worried about is weight loss. has anyone found that they have had a significant amount of weight loss after the acl surgery?

Crystal
February 4, 2007 10:20 AM

Hi everyone, I posted on here a few weeks ago. I finally had my tendon replaced on my right knee on Jan. 17. This was done with the hamstring graph. I was out of the hospital the same day on crutches even though the first night was a rough one. They gave me demerol, ibuprofen and gravol for the pain and nausea. I was also given T3 with codein for later on.(I haven't used these mainly because they don't work for me). To say the least I was in PT within the first week of my surgery. I was given simple exercises to do each day and the PT measured my knee bend range at being 80 degrees. A week later all he could was say wow repeatedly. I had pretty much ditched the crutches other than when I was walking outside. This mainly because the area I live in has lots of ice in it right now. I had also regained enough bend in my knee that he released me to drive again before my 6 weeks I was originally told. When he measured my knee bend it had went from 80 on the first time to 110 degree bend within a week. That was this past Tuesday. I also had my staples out that day, thank god for that, those things are very uncomfortable. So pretty much I've been taking life easy since I've been doing my schooling at home, trying to stay warm since we are in a deep freeze at the moment and -45C weather is really making the leg ache. I've been making sure that I keep up with my exercises because I plan on being able to ride with the hubby on the motorbike this summer. I promised my surgeon that I won't be driving them till I'm completely recovered to his likeing. I have been doing some floor exercises to help with the stiffness that I've been experiencing. I'm not used to being inactive like this and my body protests about it. I do believe that my being physically active(I'm far from being in shape) has helped a lot with my recovery so far. I can't wait to be able to get back out and walk my dog each day. She's really starting to put on the pounds from not being as active this winter as I normally keep her. For those that are wondering, I'm 31, female that has been having problems with damage to my miniscus (sp?) recuring tears to all the ligaments in my right knee. I've spent a lot of time in physio in the last 6 years because of this. I'm 5'1 and currently weight 189lbs. This past year I've been working on bringing my weight back down and have lost 50lbs already, still have a long way to go. I figure since my twins, which are my youngest boys are 10 now it's about time for me to take off the weight I gained from having kids. For people that are hevier, it does help with your knees to take some of the weight off, every little bit counts and helps! Another thing that my surgeon told me is that even though I've only been having problems with my knee for the last 6years or so, that my original injury happened when I was a teen or a child and it wasn't something serious enough that it was worried about. That over time due to it's weakened state that it finally progressed to this stage. Good luck everyone with your recovery and take care! Crystal

Crystal
February 4, 2007 10:29 AM

Hey TJ, I found that the first week and a half after my surgery I lost 15lbs, 10 of that was weight I had regained over Christmas time. I don't know if this is normal. I know for that the first week I really had no appetite, I was generally forcing myself to eat something so that I can remain strong and healthy.I also made sure that I kept my fluids up and increased them since with the Demerol I was having a hard time going to the bathroom. I also made sure I had a lot of easy things on hand to have just grab and eat like fruit, yogurt, hard cheese slices, etc. Good luck with your surgery, Crystal

Kerri
February 5, 2007 9:10 PM

Hey there! In about eight days i am having my third ACL reconstruction, the first one being the worst as I tore my ACL, PCL, medial meniscus, and lateral meniscus. The second one was due to a fall in the bathroom two weeks after the initial surgery, and the third one, a hard pivot during a basketball game. The first week is the hardest simply because your knee is four times the size that it normally is and you're just frustrated. The pain isn't quite as bad as the frustration. Many times i just wanted to kick a plyo box because i had trouble just stepping up onto it. The key to getting through an ACL surgery is confidence, determination, discipline, and watch what you eat since you're inactive. For all those getting ready for their first, good luck and don't worry, the worst part of surgery day is getting the IV and trying to wake up. BEST OF LUCK!

TIM SNYDER
February 7, 2007 8:20 AM

I tore my pcl acl and mcl and cartiladge playing basketball. I had surgery January 2nd 2007. Since that time to date, I have lost 18 lbs because the medicine keeps me from being hungry. I can't walk right going into week six. every time I go to physical therapy I come out feeling worse then I did before I went emotionally speaking. I hope that I fully recover but I am starting to wonder.

Lisa
February 9, 2007 11:30 AM

My daughter had ACL surgery on the 21 of Dec, 2006. Her pittala tendon was used for the ACL reconstruction. She has been in rehab 3 times per week since the first week of January. She actually goes to the YMCA on the off days for upper body and biking. She is now in her 6th week of rehab and already sprinting. She tore her ACL playing soccer with a plant and turn - no contact. First week definately the hardest. She has lost all muscle tone in both legs and her surgery leg is half the size as the norm. She is on her 3rd brace but is doing great at this time. We are expecting 6 more weeks of rehab but will not resume contact soccer for the full 5-6 months after surgery.

Robert
February 11, 2007 5:59 PM

Almost exactly a year ago to this date I tore my ACL playing an indoor soccer match with just a simple pivot move. I had Patellar surgery last jan. and have been on recovery track ever since. Along the way I was not sure if I would ever play the same again. I had so many struggles and doubts, but today I played my first indoor soccer game since the surgery and it was absolutely amazing! My knee is like brand new! I can cut, I can pivot, and I'm still just as agile with no lost touch on the ball. So, to everyone out there struggling, there is still hope! All it takes is a lot of dedication on recovery to build up the muscle around the ligaments, but after that muslce is back, you are ready to go!!! Good luck to everyone!!! :)

Ryan
February 15, 2007 7:57 AM

I tore my ACL and PCL two days before my first football game this year. I was a sophomore with a starting spot on Varsity so obivously I was devistated. Well I had surgery on September 26th of 2006. So now almost five months later, i feel that Im about two months away from being 100 % again. The rehab is a long and tedious process but I encourage everyone that has this surgery to rehab religiously, I have for the last 5 months and I KNOW I will be full strength soon, so just stick it out.

Diane
February 15, 2007 2:03 PM

I had ACL surgery in June 2006 when I was 45. Today I am schedukled for my second surgery in a few weeks. My ACL has not mended and I have been told I have almost no cartilage left in my knne. The two surgeons I have seen said my bones are rubbing together and so much scar tissue has formed over my knee cap preventing movement. I still walk with a limp and only have 115% range of movement and cannot straighten my leg. I was told 22 yeras ago to have surgery, but heard once you have knee surgery it is never the same. I have been through hell the last 8 months being told by my 1st surgeon that all is fine. Finally I went over his head to the top Dog" and he knows he has to fix it correctly. Even after therapy, dynasplints and constant stetching, I am at a stand still and fully dread going through this over again. I am a PE teacher so I have to be on my feet all day

Mark McCormack
February 17, 2007 9:12 AM

I had my ACL surgery on the 15th of December 2006 ..im back walking a stuff..but am struggling in daily life have pains, soreness in my knee. the swelling is still there a bit and i got numbness in my lower leg...i love sports i did this playing football by planting my foot and pivoting no contact freak incident...but im afraid il will never play sports..i struggle in the rehab i dont do enough exercise except swimming and some gym work...is there hope out there.becuz im struggling

Bryan
February 17, 2007 5:04 PM

I tore my ACL January 28th in a skiing accident up in MT so I had to wait till I got back home to CO a week later to see the doctor. I just got the results from my MRI last Thursday. I'm scheduled to have an Allograft on 2/28. This site has done so much to allay my fears and get me very informed to ask the right questions when I see my doctor. My prehab has been going really well, today I was back up to 143 degrees of flexion--I was only at 90 when I had my first visit two weeks ago. It's so frustrating to know that I'm building myself up and making huge progress just to be brought back down to ground zero. But I've been working really hard especially with the strengthening--thanks to all the above comments--It really drives me to take it seriously knowing how much I will benefit on the other end. The one question I do have is--can anyone who has had ACL recon WITHOUT meniscus repair tell me how long it was till they were cleared to drive?? The one thing I'm dreading is the hassel of getting rides back an forth to PT and dr.'s appointments. When I got the news that they were not going to repair my meniscus (only a slight tear on the outside of the joint) I forgot to ask the doc what that meant for rehab timeline.--you can email me bziegs@yahoo.com Thanks!

Crystal
February 18, 2007 9:35 AM

Hi Mark, Stick with the exercise, even if you have to break it up through out the day. That is what I do. I've told my PT what I'm doing, he also has told me if anything I'm doing is hurting my knee to instantly stop it. I had my acl reconstrution done on Jan.17. There is still a lot of swelling that comes and goes. Majorityof the time I still walk with a limp but it is getting better. I guess the biggest thing for me is that I just keep trying on the exercises. It must be working because my PT only wants to see me once a week since I've been doing so well, he reminds me not to overdo things and still says Wow a lot. To this date I'm the fastest recovering patient that he has had. With some of my exercises I also wait till I'm in the tub to do them because I find it is easier on my leg. My PT doesn't have a problem with that. I find that soaking in a nice hot tub helps relieve some of the pressure that I feel is building up in my leg all day long as it's swelling. I know they say to put ice on the spot to reduce swelling but this is what helps me. Beleive that you will be playing sports again and you will reach your goal. Have you discussed your fears at all with your PT or doctor? They might be able to revise your exercises for you. Bryan, I'm not to sure which one the allograft is, I don't think it's the one I had. For me they did a hamstring graft to replace my tendon. You also never stated which knee you're having it done on. This is what the hospital found out for me before my surgery. If it is your left knee they want you to wait 2 weeks before you start driving again. The splint really does get in the way big time seeing as most want it on for at least 3 weeks. Mine wanted me to wear mine for 3 weeks and I wore it for 2. Those splints aren't made for short women with thighs that are fat! haha If your repair is done on your right knee expect to be off from driving for at least 6 weeks. Mine was done on my right knee. I was released to drive after 2 weeks but I still didn't drive to far or to often till the 3rd week. Mainly it still hurt a lot and it wore a person out. You vehicle also needs to be an automatic transmission, if you have a standard transmission you won't be able to drive very fast no matter which leg it is. I was told by my PT that I had to regain a 90* bend of my knee before they would let me drive and the soonest he had ever told anyone was after 3 weeks and not to expect it sooner. Well I proved him wrong. It is good that you are doing prehab right now, I did mine at home since I knee already what was expected of me. This might also help shorten your rehab, I don't know, I do know it has helped me by reducing the amount of time I have to see my PT each week. I was originally told to expect to be in there from 3-5 times a week, but I'm only going once a week. For after your surgery stay off your leg as much as possible, have a large supply of ice packs on hand. I bought the icecube bags that you fill and they form the icecubes themselves, throw the package into a ziploc bag and you can mold it around your leg. Keep your fluid intake up, very important because a lot of the meds you are given will cause dehydration which then causes muscle cramps... so not fun to deal with. Listen to your doctor and surgeon and you'll get through this. Good luck everyone, Crystal

Cookie
February 19, 2007 12:03 AM

Hi Lisa~No my daughter did not have any meniscus damage to her knee (praise the Lord)....(well if "any" the Dr. told us it was very minute and he couldn't see it in the MRI or during sugery)...so that was good news I understand...my husband had ACL reconstrutive surgery over 20 yrs. ago and back then they just took what was left of his injured meniscus out...so now he is left with bone rubbing against bone...but does okay...thinks someday he might have to have knee replacement surgery...but is hanging in there and strangley enough the pain is better now then it was years ago...but he hopes the longer he waits the better advancements in surgery/science they will have. The answer to your other question about whether my daughter can't play like she use to or is afraid...I think the answer is "yes" to both questions....she is now almost 1 year post sugery...tore ACL Feb.6, 2006...had surgery Feb. 27, 2006 and is a little timid about doing the sudden, strong, jump stop that she was doing when her ACL ruptured...she has been playing and starting on the b-ball team since the first week of Dec....we have won the last 6 games in our league after losing about the many non-league games...in the beginning We are playing this week for the co-championship title of our league and then begin sub-state play-offs....she still isn't jumping quite as high as before and like I said doesn't drive in the middle as strong or as much as before...but is doing better each game..she has regained her "starting" position after she did not start ..but still played most of the game ...which was when I posted on her before...she started giving it "MORE" at practice and the game ...you can tell when her knee is hurting....especailly when we have played two games in one week....in the beginning we played 3 games in two days...which was tough on her....she ices her knee about every evening...and says it's sore after games...she tries to put heat on it before games...she wears a sleeve/under her big knee brace and another padded sleeve on her good knee that hurts her now too...she was wearing knee pads when she tore her ACL...she always has...I sometimes think that is why her meniscus wasn't injured..maybe bones didn't slide apart on impact as much??.....and she didn't hear a "POP" like most people hear when they tear ther ACL's...it's just a thought...who knows...she can not wait to get rid of the brace...we go back to the DR. in March...she wants to run track this Spring...w/out the brace...straight forward running is suppose to be pretty good for the knee...w/out the stopping, cutting pivoting etc....but I'm with you ....I'll still be nervous no matter what she does...sorry this reply was so long. How is your daughter doing by now?? Hang in there everybody. They say with each passing year the knee gets stronger and stronger if you work at it. ~Cookie~

Lisa
February 20, 2007 9:54 AM

Hi Cookie-my daughter had minimal meniscul damage-I think like 20% or something. The weird thing is that she was never in a brace-her surgeon always put everyone in a brace but he said they did studies on it and they are finding that it really doesn't help so since she was so adamant about not wanting it he didn't make her have one. Her recovery has been amazing. She is only allowed to jog right now being 3 months out but her balance is excellent and she does the eliptical and lifts weights 3-4 times a week. Her quad is finally starting to look defined but certainly not in comparison with the other one which is sooooo large!! She also did not hear a "pop" nor did she have pain when she tore it playing soccer. Most people in rehab who see her work out don't believe she tore it-the true test will be when she goes to play soccer again next season. I am surprised that her knee still hurts after playing a game-I wonder how long that will last. As for your husband, believe it or not I am in the same position as him. I am bone on bone-was supposed to have the replacement last week but I heard bad things about the surgeon when I picked up my daughter from rehab so now I am rehabing to make the quad stronger! Good luck to both of them and to everyone else!!!!

leslie
February 20, 2007 6:06 PM

Bryan: Good luck with your upcoming surgery. You'll be fine. I had my ACL recon Nov 30th, Allograft, and I am 12 weeks this Thursday. I am still in PT 2x a week, but I am about 1 1/2 month ahead of schedule. That doesn't mean that I am coming back too quickly..what it means is that all the pre-hab I did prior to surgery is really paying off. I worked out for 3 months..doing all the knee exersizes strength training and a lot of the stuff I'm doing now. At 9 weeks, I jogged on the treadmill for 1/3 of a mile. I lost my limp at about a month. Now, at 12 weeks, I'm jogging a mile. I was told that also at 9 weeks, after a Cybex strenth test, There was only a 15% strength difference between the knee I had surgery on vs the other. That's incredible after only 9 weeks. So your pre-hab WILL payoff in spades. Everyone is different, however for a person 48 years old...I'm well ahead of most of my PT's past patients, and they are a hell of a lot younger than I. I never lost my extention, because my surgeon doesn't use a CPM, I also had perfect ROM prior to surgery..and after, even though it did take a couple weeks to get it back..it came back rather quickly because I didn't really lose any muscle. And I did all the home exersizes i was given. I worked out twice the day before my surgery. I was a nut and extremely nervous about the whole thing. You will also recover quicker because of the shape you're in. Better circulation leads to a faster healing. Just listen to your surgeon and do all the home excersizes you can as soon as you are allowed to do it. Ice a lot. Get an iceman, or rent one. They really make things a lot less painfull. The Allograft was scarey for me too, but it worked out just fine. Just be positive and the fact that you have done your job prior to surgery should only give you confidence for a great recovery. Sure it's a pain..literally for the first couple of days. We all wore our braces, our crutches etc. but soon you'll be back to doing the stuff you love. Me, I'm looking forward to skiing..next year unfort. but in better shape, with strong knees and pain free. Continued success for a fast recovery for all and to all who are scheduled for surgery..wishing you all the best of luck.

Kerri
February 21, 2007 4:55 PM

You can drive as long as you are no longer taking pain medication. So probably 2 weeks. i just had my 3rd ACL replaced, this time without meniscal repair, and it is much easier. There is less pain and therapy is going to be much better.

Mark
February 21, 2007 5:22 PM

Hey i tore my ACL/Meniscus in November right before my senior year in basketball it has to be one of the worst experiences of my life becuase of not playing basketball and the horrible pain mine was repaired with Pateller tendon. I was suprised about ur recovery time very quick, i was out of school for 2 weeks and couldent walk for about a month, im doin PT 3x wk and am seeing so much improvement allready swimming at 7 wks and running im 10 wks out and hope in the future to play college basketball. Thsi site real help me feel better becuase i know thta other peolpe r going through the same injury.So good luck to all who r recovery and to all who r going into surgery, rmbr you will be back soon and before you know it you will be back to doin what u love.

Adil
February 21, 2007 8:58 PM

Hey MY name is ADil and am 19 years old boy. hi.I read ur article.I really need ur help.U being gone through it ur self might be really able to help me out. I suffered a sprain or an injury.While playing basket ball i twisted my knee.later i got to know it was a partial ACL tear(MRI scan report).I re injured my self in daily activities by fallin from bed slipping while walkin etc . . .I injured my self about 4-5 times(same knee). I had injured my self in April last year.Had gone through many phsiotherapy sessions.Took some good rest.Right now i can walk jog n jump slightly.The pain is felt only after a hard days work.Though i am not confident about my knee stablitiy so havent gone into sports. Now pls help me.Tell me what shall i do.Should i go for surgery?if not then what are the alternatives? When should i take the final decsion. pls help.

Michael
February 22, 2007 3:20 PM

Hey i know what you mean. When i was in 7th grade i was playing football and when i planted and turned it gave out. i had a type of sergury where they took the l half of my ACL and pulled it up. I was on cruches for about 2 - 3 months. Next year (i am a freshman) i have to get sergury again. if u have any extra information abour comming back to play a sport please let me know. thanks

Bryan
February 24, 2007 1:53 PM

Hi guys, thanks for all the info and support. I have my last preop PT appointment on Tuesday and my surgery is Weds. My leg is good and strong, I can actually see and feel my muscles again and my flexion was actually higher than in my good leg at my PT session today. At this point I just can't wait to get it over with so I that the gains I make will actually be moving towards getting better rather than getting strong to be torn back down. I'll post as soon as I can get back to a computer after surgery and let you know how I'm doing. Thanks gain for the posts and emails, they've been very helpful and encouraging.

rich
February 24, 2007 6:29 PM

hey i just got acl surgery about 2 months ago i got the paterial bone , it suks cuz i cnt play baseball this year but i wanna know if u have any tips on how much i hosuld push myslef cuz i need a brace to start joggin but i know i can run but i dnt wanna cuz its so early after surgery

robbie
February 26, 2007 4:38 PM

hello everyone i am a freshman in high school and tore my acl amd meniiscus and i had surgery on december 18 and te surgery took about 1 or 2 hours. i was walking on my knee 5 days after my surgery without a limp. this has honestly been the worst experience of my life to date.it killed me not being able to play basketball which i love. so thanks everyoe it goos to know that theere are ppl out there going through the same thing. i was jogging in week 6 or 7 and am now in week 11 of pt.i have had no pain since my surgery and my knee feels great and was j/w if you guys had to wear a brace when returning to basketball and also how long was it before you could sprint and how much it effected your speed.please contact me with some answers.robbiemeikle22@hotmail.com

ben
February 26, 2007 4:42 PM

23 male i partialy tore my acl about 2 years ago playing soccer and had a knee scope where they cleaned up some some frayed fibers. it never was 100% so i went back to a new doctor to see what was the problem. come to find out the ACL is 100% torn and w/o surgery no more week end warrior sports. i plan on having the surgery in november. hopefully everything turns out ok.

Drew
February 26, 2007 9:44 PM

I'm 17, Junior, I have been playing basketball my whole life. When I hit high school, I made bball my life... My sophmore year I started on a state final four team, my junior year (this year) was so promising, I worked everyday in the weight room, shot extra after team workouts and I felt I had become a weapon. It was the first game back from Christmas break and we were number 5 in the state going up one of our most hated rivals, they were #1 in the state, undefeated... 23 seconds into the game my leg was caught in the air from different directions, in different places, by two opposing players. I went down but walked off, an ACL like injury didn't even cross my mind... I went back in after a moment on the sideline, 10 seconds into my return my knee went out on me... I was rushed to the hospital. I got an MRI and it was final, I no longer had an ACL in my left leg. We mon the game by 13 and I cried that night because my teammates battled and did not let me down... Our season came to an end two days ago, mostly because of our best player making bad choices and did not show for the state playoff... Still we have no idea what is going on... As I watched my best friend, Senior, walk off the court dripping in sweat and tears running down his face... I shed many tears of my own, the last time that happened was the night of my injury. Sitting in the locker room on crutches watching my buddy, knowing his career had ended without a state title, just has been eating and digging at me ever since... He approached me to give me a hug, as he talked to me with tears rolling down his face he talked to me how I had made a difference in his life and he'll never forget me or this team... That broke me down even more, I couldn't handle it, I just couldn't see him walk off the court without a ring, he worked so hard everyday and in every asspect of his life... I don't think it killed him as much as it is killing me, he was a peace to just be the presence of those he loves and put himself on the line everynight with. I got my reconstructive surgery 2 weeks ago, I got a "Cadaver" graph. One thing my bud did was dedicate his shoes to me when I got hurt, he put my number on the back with sharpie... No one has ever felt like a best friend to me than him, his leadership qualities and work ethic I will never forget and I hope they rub off on me. I have one more year to set things straight, for the state title, I no longer am doing it next eyar for myself but for him... I truely believe God sometimes does things to do so that you witness life changing events or moments, my ACL injury was to set this up, to get me to work for something more than just a state championship to fight for someone else, my battle to full recovery, is no long just for me but for my best friend as well... I owe him my best and to witness a state championship... For, I will never forget the things he taught me about live...

leslie
February 28, 2007 6:34 PM

Bryan: You sound ready...bes of luck with your surgery. It'll be fine and because of all your work, you'll be back in no time. week 13 update: Today I Jogged a 15.3 mile. Started jogging at 9 weeks, cut a bunch of time off though and worked it up from 5 minutes to 20 Minutes. Doing a lot of jumping, strengthening AVO, impact drills. Feel good just my patella femoral issues are creeping up slightly. You can fix an ACL but only strengthen muscles to help a patella issue. Feeling realy great otherwise. Healthy knees to all.

taylor
March 1, 2007 12:47 PM

hi, im a 17 year old female, and i tore my acl about 9 months ago. I have had surgery and have completed 5 months of rehab. It was infuriating not being able to play tennis and bike. BUt it was so worth resting it.My surgeon used the paella tendon, but after 5 months it still aches and hurts , from where he took the bone graft. Do you know how long it will take for it to stop aching. Cheers

matrix
March 1, 2007 6:26 PM

Hi, i am having surgery for torn acl on march 7,07 i had a parcial tear about 25 years ago from playing touch football on a beach, now i did it falling off a ladder painting. Now i had to put my plans of doing a ironman this year on hold. i hope to get back doing some sort of training again by mid to late summer. I have got a sports personal trainer ready to go as soon as I get the surgeons clearence, i am hoping that this along with the sport therapy i'll be back training sooner then later.

kenny
March 4, 2007 5:44 AM

The first time I tweaked my knee playing basketball back in May I had no idea it was my ACL about to go. I played hoops the next week with a brace and while going in for a layup it popped out and I had to be helped off the floor. I am 4o yrs old so the surgeon asked me what kind of lifestyle I wanted to live as I could get around on my knee just not play competitively. I got the surgery on Sept 1 and rebab thru January. I started playing ball again by the February 1 and in a pickup game on March 1, I hear another slight pop and walk off the court. I have a bit of swelling but can walk and move fine. Im wondering if Ive torn this thing again.

David
March 4, 2007 1:06 PM

About 7 months ago i tore my acl skateboarding. I am in my final year of high school so i have to wait until my summer to get the surgery which is set for june 27. I have been skateboarding for over 8 years and starting to get really good, tricks became easy for me and me and my friends were making a movie to be realesed. I was also having sponsorships offered to me by different skate shops. Unfortunatly a month later i tore it. Its now so weak i can skate, but at about 50%, i cant complete my tricks like i used to, and i cant do stairs or rails. Its really been hard copeing with this injury. The one thing im most scared about is the recovery time. 9 months is a long time to be off my board. All i have is sports and life really sucks now..

erin
March 4, 2007 5:04 PM

I had no idea how long and painful this surgery was going to be. I knew I had to get it as I am 46 and very active. I wont be able to do the things I love this summer, which is very depressing. I was not given the passive movement machine, only the game ready. I am into my 4th day of recovery, and still on pain meds every 4 hrs. I wonder when I can go back to work? The excersises are tuff! Will get through it,,,,

Amber
March 5, 2007 10:27 AM

I tore my MCL, ACL, and PCL in December snowboarding and I am having surgery on March 14, 2007. How long will it take before I am walking comfortably without a brace at all?

Matt
March 5, 2007 10:33 AM

I tore my ACL on February 9th of 2007 while using a pair of Powerizers. Incredibly fun-but take it slow. I am set to get surgery this Wednesday, March 7th. Any advise for a quicker recovery? You guys got me all worried about not only the pain, but being laid up all summer. Any quicker way to get through it? Does pain vary depending on the severity of the injury? Matt (btw: if anyone is considering getting jumping stilts, definitely do it, but take it slow. Don't do too much too quickly, like I did.) See the safety section here: www.getjumpingstilts.com

Bryan
March 5, 2007 4:44 PM

Well I had my ACL reconstructed on the 28th of Feb, 4 weeks after my skiing accident. Thanks again for everyone's support along the way but I've gotta say it was a really rough couple of days. Although--Matt and Amber, don't worry too much the worst of it is over before you know it and if there were two ways that things could have gone, they went the bad way for me. Except for the all the important stuff, like the surgery and the prognosis which were very good. The best advice I could give is to do as much of the prehab as possible and it really does help. I'm like 6 days out and when I went to my first PT appointment on Saturday, which I almost cancelled on Friday night because I thought there was no way in hell I would be able to make it there or do anything productive, it turned out to be great. I had surgery (allograft) on Weds, turns out they didn't have to do the meniscal repair after all which was great news and the the surgery was a perfect success. The problems didn't start till I got home that night, it was snowing pretty bad and the Game Ready Rep couldn't get to me with the ice machine until some time the next day. I ended up just using ice bags and a friend brought over one of their old ice machines for me to use for the night and it worked out okay. That night I took all the meds I was supposed to and wasn't in much pain but really out of it, even when the femoral block wore off I was not really in any pain. In fact the whole process has been relatively pain free except for the fact that I got really sick either from the anesthesia or from the pain meds which I stopped taking Thurs. morn. I pretty much was in a state of agony and unconciuosness for the next three days with no appetite, cold sweats, shivering and coughing--I got some fluid in my lungs from the breathing tubes which caused me to cough for a couple of days--made my ribs so sore I could harldly move. So I was pretty much in a haze for three days, not eating or drinking (I couldn't even hold down water) or most importantly being able to sleep. I got a little sleep Friday night and woke up Saturday morning and it was like a fog lifted. My appetite came back and the flulike symptoms were gone, I got out of bed and went to my first PT appointment. I had been doing the little moving around (back and forth to the bathroom, etc.) with crutches but found out on Sat. I could get around pretty good with just one crutch. I wasn't given a brace or anything--Doctors are using the braces less and less, most are moving away from them for cases of ACL repair as the knee is stable right after surgery. At PT it was great to see all the faces I've been hanging out with for the past couple of weeks and they were happy to see I was through with my surgery--Very movtivating environment and it felt like I was truly part of the club now--as sick as that is. I didn't really do any exercises up till that point because I had been so out of it so I wasn't expecting too much but I started warming up on the bike and after a minute or so I got it all the way around and did like 10 mins on it. My flexion was already 111 degrees and my extension was only short of zero by about 5 degrees! The swelling wasn't that bad and my therapist was very pleased with where I was at. Now I'm just psyched to keep improving. Matt and Amber--don't sweat it too much, everything that could've gone wrong pretty much did for me and I was through it in just a couple of days. If the meds work with you, you will be virtually pain free after a day or two and the pain wasn't even that bad. It's not like I can remember or recall those awful feelings now and it's only like 2 days ago. Amber, I'm not sure how long it will take but I'm in PT with a kid who had all of your injuries and he's doing pretty good after 2 1/2 weeks--on crutches but totally pain free and in good spirits. I'm not sure how it works with weight bearing when there are multiple injuries and to what degrees but living in a ski town I know lots of people with all those injuries and it's very rare to go more than 4 to 6 weeks on crutches. Walking brace free and active again is another story but at least you can get around and live a normal life after not too long. You'll be happy when it's over and glad you had it done, you'll only be a stronger person for having gone through it! Best of luck.

Sue
March 8, 2007 5:46 AM

My son , 15 years old, tore his ACL playing football. He had suregery January 31 and is doing incredibly well. The key to succesful recovery is to get to rehab as soon as possible . He had surgery on a Wednesday and was at rehab on Friday. Lots of pain but he pushed through it and went. Just to let you know after surgey your quad shuts down so you cant move it. Very scarey but it will come back with proper rehab. Also faithfully ice the leg and elevate it right after surgery and get on the CPM machine immediately. Its all about getting the leg moving right away. Whcih is weird cause your in pain and feels like you shouldnt move it. But doctor wants it moving as soon as possible to prevent scar tissue. After 1 month you will feel terrific. Cant even tell my son had surgey. Rehab 3 times a week and progressing excellent! He wants to get ready for summer lacrosse. As far as i can see the biggest pain with this surgery is the length of recovery. Rest assured you'll be up moving quickly. Good luck to all.

Matt
March 8, 2007 11:24 AM

3/06/07 THE NIGHT BEFORE SURGERY I started fasting at 7pm. I’m a little nervous about tomorrow. Oh well, they tell me that The ACL won’t heal itself, so I have no choice but to give in to modern medical science. 3/07/07 SURGERY DAY I went into surgery today. I arrived at the hospital at 9:30 am. The receptionist asked me mine name and birth date and attached a wristband with this information. From there, it was a short wait in the lobby before they took me back. The second person I talked with verified name, birth date an also medications that I was allergic to. I was then taken to a room where I changed into a surgery gown. The hospital was cold but I had to remove all of my clothing because doing so, I was told, helps keep a sterile environment. Perhaps some people’s undergarments are less sterile than others. LOL. After I was done changing, a nurse came in and verified my wristband information and then asked me to describe, in my own words, what procedure was being done, by what doctor and on what extremity. I explained that I was having ACL reconstruction surgery on my left leg. The nurse then marked on my left leg “yes” with a pen. (Note: from then out all hospital staff took great pains to continuously verify who I was, what I was allergic to, and what procedure I was having done on which extremity-apparently the wrong kidney had been removed one to many times in American medicine. Next a man came in and checked my blood-oxygen with a clip that goes on your finger. That was fine. He then told me that the Doctor had ordered a tight stocking be placed on my non-operative leg. (Let me tell you, I must have been a sight to be seen in my flowered hospital gown and now a white stocking). Then, the nurse came in and checked my blood pressure, which was fine. She then told me it was time for the IV to be put in. She checked around for a vein and finally found one she liked. She rubbed my skin down with alcohol and then sprayed it down with a very cold spray. The spray numbed the skin and I barely felt the IV needle pierce through. This was surprising because the IV need is thicker that a needle on a syringe. When the IV drip started, I found myself having to go to the bathroom a lot. Believe it or not, the IV is sort of the equivalent of chugging water at a good pace. After about an hour of waiting, a “transporter “(basically some guy who moves patients around) came to get me. (Yes, he verified all my information). He took me down the hall to a quiet, cold, very sterile looking room. I found it a little eerie and scary being so cold and clinical, hearing only the faint sound of EKG machines. I waited quite a while until someone cam over and talked to me-simply verifying the basic information. Next, a while later, a man came over and shaved my knee down to baby-bottom status. As I looked down, I must have had a worried look on my face because he said, “it’s ok, it will grow back.” I told him that I hadn’t seen my knee look like that in years. Next the Doctor of Anesthesiology came over. She introduced herself, asked me some questions and explained to me that I would be getting put completely to sleep (as opposed to getting a spinal, lower-body anesthesia). A nurse practitioner and another person came over. They told me that they would be giving me some drugs to calm me and then to put me to sleep. They told me that it wouldn’t be too much longer and that we had to wait on a person to come and get me. In the meantime, I couldn’t hold it any longer. The IV drip and filled the pool that is my bladder. The nurse practitioner, a petite Asian lady, offered to wheel me near to the bathroom because I was still a slave to my crutch, which was buried somewhere under my gurney. She told me that she would make sure that I stayed covered. Shockingly, I caught her taking a peek through the rear curtains of my hospital gown as I looked in the mirror while walking into the bathroom. She made sure I was covered alright! Oh well, couldn’t help but be a bit flattered. After I got out of the bathroom (I now was holding the tie from my gown tight to cover myself-I wonder if she noticed), I went back on top of the gurney and they began taking me down to surgery. The nurse practitioner began administering some antibiotic. As we went into the operating room (which smelled like my high school biology classroom-where we dissected the frog), a felt something strange. I asked her if she was giving me meds. She responded, “Yeah, can you feel that?” I told her I did. They hiked my gurney up to the level of the operating table. I asked the one nurse if he wanted to me to help them get me onto the operating table. He said no and put his hand on my shoulder and told me to wait. That is the last thing I remember. The funny thing about anesthesia is that you feel no passage of time. Lights off, then, lights on. This is exactly what happened to me. One second I was getting onto the operating table, the next second I was waking up with my surgery complete. I was very sore. I told them that I was in pain. They gave me a few shots of Demerol and a couple more Percocets. Funny, but the nurse kept asking me if I was in pain and I just couldn’t seem to say no. After about an hour, I went home and ate a big plate of food. It was the first thing I had eaten since 7 o’clock pm the previous day. Boy that tasted good. I was still in pain but I was finally able to get to sleep. 3/8/2007 THE DAY AFTER I elevated my leg and slept pretty well. My knee is definitely in a lot more pain than before I went into surgery. I can especially feel where I think the incisions are, although I can’t tell for sure because my leg is completely bandages. There is a little blood coming through. Not much, but enough to see. I took a couple pain pills (oxycodone 5mg/325mg). Feels a little better, but I am still in pain. I am going to begin doing my exercises leg lifts and ankle pumps. My goal is to try and get this recovery down from six (6) months to four (4) months.

Matt
March 8, 2007 11:27 AM

3/06/07 THE NIGHT BEFORE SURGERY I started fasting at 7pm. I’m a little nervous about tomorrow. Oh well, they tell me that The ACL won’t heal itself, so I have no choice but to give in to modern medical science. 3/07/07 SURGERY DAY I went into surgery today. I arrived at the hospital at 9:30 am. The receptionist asked me mine name and birth date and attached a wristband with this information. From there, it was a short wait in the lobby before they took me back. The second person I talked with verified name, birth date an also medications that I was allergic to. I was then taken to a room where I changed into a surgery gown. The hospital was cold but I had to remove all of my clothing because doing so, I was told, helps keep a sterile environment. Perhaps some people’s undergarments are less sterile than others. LOL. After I was done changing, a nurse came in and verified my wristband information and then asked me to describe, in my own words, what procedure was being done, by what doctor and on what extremity. I explained that I was having ACL reconstruction surgery on my left leg. The nurse then marked on my left leg “yes” with a pen. (Note: from then out all hospital staff took great pains to continuously verify who I was, what I was allergic to, and what procedure I was having done on which extremity-apparently the wrong kidney had been removed one to many times in American medicine. Next a man came in and checked my blood-oxygen with a clip that goes on your finger. That was fine. He then told me that the Doctor had ordered a tight stocking be placed on my non-operative leg. (Let me tell you, I must have been a sight to be seen in my flowered hospital gown and now a white stocking). Then, the nurse came in and checked my blood pressure, which was fine. She then told me it was time for the IV to be put in. She checked around for a vein and finally found one she liked. She rubbed my skin down with alcohol and then sprayed it down with a very cold spray. The spray numbed the skin and I barely felt the IV needle pierce through. This was surprising because the IV need is thicker that a needle on a syringe. When the IV drip started, I found myself having to go to the bathroom a lot. Believe it or not, the IV is sort of the equivalent of chugging water at a good pace. After about an hour of waiting, a “transporter “(basically some guy who moves patients around) came to get me. (Yes, he verified all my information). He took me down the hall to a quiet, cold, very sterile looking room. I found it a little eerie and scary being so cold and clinical, hearing only the faint sound of EKG machines. I waited quite a while until someone cam over and talked to me-simply verifying the basic information. Next, a while later, a man came over and shaved my knee down to baby-bottom status. As I looked down, I must have had a worried look on my face because he said, “it’s ok, it will grow back.” I told him that I hadn’t seen my knee look like that in years. Next the Doctor of Anesthesiology came over. She introduced herself, asked me some questions and explained to me that I would be getting put completely to sleep (as opposed to getting a spinal, lower-body anesthesia). A nurse practitioner and another person came over. They told me that they would be giving me some drugs to calm me and then to put me to sleep. They told me that it wouldn’t be too much longer and that we had to wait on a person to come and get me. In the meantime, I couldn’t hold it any longer. The IV drip and filled the pool that is my bladder. The nurse practitioner, a petite Asian lady, offered to wheel me near to the bathroom because I was still a slave to my crutch, which was buried somewhere under my gurney. She told me that she would make sure that I stayed covered. Shockingly, I caught her taking a peek through the rear curtains of my hospital gown as I looked in the mirror while walking into the bathroom. She made sure I was covered alright! Oh well, couldn’t help but be a bit flattered. After I got out of the bathroom (I now was holding the tie from my gown tight to cover myself-I wonder if she noticed), I went back on top of the gurney and they began taking me down to surgery. The nurse practitioner began administering some antibiotic. As we went into the operating room (which smelled like my high school biology classroom-where we dissected the frog), a felt something strange. I asked her if she was giving me meds. She responded, “Yeah, can you feel that?” I told her I did. They hiked my gurney up to the level of the operating table. I asked the one nurse if he wanted to me to help them get me onto the operating table. He said no and put his hand on my shoulder and told me to wait. That is the last thing I remember. The funny thing about anesthesia is that you feel no passage of time. Lights off, then, lights on. This is exactly what happened to me. One second I was getting onto the operating table, the next second I was waking up with my surgery complete. I was very sore. I told them that I was in pain. They gave me a few shots of Demerol and a couple more Percocets. Funny, but the nurse kept asking me if I was in pain and I just couldn’t seem to say no. After about an hour, I went home and ate a big plate of food. It was the first thing I had eaten since 7 o’clock pm the previous day. Boy that tasted good. I was still in pain but I was finally able to get to sleep. 3/8/2007 THE DAY AFTER I elevated my leg and slept pretty well. My knee is definitely in a lot more pain than before I went into surgery. I can especially feel where I think the incisions are, although I can’t tell for sure because my leg is completely bandages. There is a little blood coming through. Not much, but enough to see. I took a couple pain pills (oxycodone 5mg/325mg). Feels a little better, but I am still in pain. I am going to begin doing my exercises leg lifts and ankle pumps. My goal is to try and get this recovery down from six (6) months to four (4) months.

shobhana kiran
March 8, 2007 9:42 PM

i underwent ACL reconstruction on 8thjuly 2006,but i still feel pain while climbling steps and cant bend my knee totally.theres pain doing that.i was a bit lazy doing my exercises last 2 months but i am tired doing that.what should i do to get back to normal.can i run without fear?

Crystal
March 17, 2007 8:08 PM

Hi everyone, dropped in here to give an update to how I've been doing since my surgery. Today is 8 weeks from the date of my surgery. Since I can't remember the medical term for what I had done other than it being an ACL reconstruction. I had the tendon on my right knee replaced with a graph from my hamstring. Anyways, I went into PT this past Thursday for my eighth appointment since my operation ( I have only been having physio 1 day a week since my therapist figured I've been doing extremely well, a lot better than the 5 days/week from what I was originally told), my therapist and I talked briefly, and then he released me from therapy. He's planning on leaving my file open till the middle of May which is when I am to see my surgeon again. I've been told to keep my exercises up that I've been doing, gradually continue to increase the weights that have been added to them and that I've accomplished everything that I've needed to do in very little time. I have full range of movement in my knee back, it's nice to have the feeling of a very stable leg under myself again. I have returned to walking normally again. The only time a limp starts creeping in is on the days that I've been to active and on my feet to long. I have also resumed my daily walks outside since the ice and snow are gone from the streets now. I was told though that I can't resume jogging till I reach the 3 month mark. Gave me a good laugh because I didn't jog before and I don't plan on doing it now! For those that are frustrated keep up on your exercises, they work and you will reach your goals! For those that are reading this before your surgery, if you have time, build up your muscles before you go in, it really does help the healing go a lot smoother. Take care everyone! Crystal

Kelly Lang
March 24, 2007 5:09 PM

I'm a 43 year old woman that just had my second acl surgery on the same knee 17 days ago. First time 2 years ago used my patella, and had a painful and long recovery. After my surgeon gave me the o.k. to start playing tennis again, I felt like my knee was never right. Several months later, after struggling with a brace etc., 2 new dr.s told me that my graph was not positioned properly. I had a nonfunctioning ACL!!! What happened???? The last surgery I used an allograph. I have very little pain, and my rehab is going great.

Jenny
March 28, 2007 4:37 PM

I really enjoyed reading everyone's comments on this site and felt inspired to add. I first tore my ACL , partial MCL, partial LCL and meniscus in 7th grade. The LCL and MCL healed on their own. My hamstring was used for the graft and I took 9 months to a year to recover. Everything healed properly and completely. At 8 months I began weight training 3x a week to really re-build my muscles (my parent's condition if I wanted to play again). Although I was playing for a top level team before my injury, the year I returned I dropped down a division and focused on gaining back my speed, confidence, and ball skills, which worked. I moved on to great high school and club teams, then moved on to a top DI school where I started and played as a freshman. However, during a spring season game I stretched out my ACL graft to a point where it wasn't functioning. Rehab attempts failed and I had surgery using cadaver. I sat out for the season, rehabbed 5 days a week on the sidelines, continuing to weight lift, and doing the cardio I was allowed. I returned to play 6 months later. 2 months after returning I tore the ACL in my other knee along with a partial MCL tear, and had surgery the following week. Cadaver was once again used since autographs are not a good choice when the MCL is partially torn. After another 6 months of hard work and missing our pre-season I went in to be cleared to play once again only to find out that something "didn't feel right"...after MRIs it was evident my graft had for some reason disintegrated (not sure why). A couple of days later I had my 4th and what will be my final surgery using the bone-patellar-bone technique. This method usually requires less recovery time, but I was not allowed to begin cutting or playing with a ball until 6 months. However, at 6 months and 2 weeks (this week), I was able to begin practicing and it feels great; very strong and sturdy. I of course deeply hope both knees stay that way :) The advice I have to give from my experiences is to build quad muscle and increase range of motion before surgery, right before surgery ask for the anti-nausea ear patch (it lasts about 48 hours) if your body doesn't interact well with painkillers (this was my life saver), right after surgery keep your leg elevated and straight (despite being very uncomfortable), ice as much as possible, stay in the big brace as long as you're told to (it is there to protect the newly planted graft and also does a good job of preventing people around you from bumping into the area), do all the rehab assignments they send home with you even though it hurts, and don't rush things, especially early on. There may be times of setback where your knee will swell and be sore for no apparent reason. If this happens return to icing and do less or easier rehab. It is of course tough to sit and watch others be able to do what you want to do most, incredibly difficult actually, but time is necessary to heal and pushing beyond what is appropriate may do great harm. And to the concerned mothers with daughters who have torn their ACLs: with time their confidence and skill will return, it will take a little while to get their feet back under them and to become assured that their knee is strong yet again. Returning to activities can be an incredibly frustrating transition and all the support one can get is needed. I sincerely wish everyone the best of luck and success in their surgeries, recoveries, and return to action.

Ralph
April 1, 2007 9:39 PM

I am new here...First question is for Kelly: How did the two new doctors diagnose the improper positioning of your new ACL? Second question is for anyone: I am 5 1/2 months post ACL recon surgery on left knee. I am still having some trouble, especially walking downstairs where I get knee-cap pain which I never had before my surgery. Any common experiences? remedies? (MY PT gave me a few exercises to try and isolate the quad without irritating the knee cap, but its slow going...Maybe it just requires a lot of patience.) I'd appreciate any thoughts.

Kelley
April 2, 2007 3:31 PM

i really liked reading these stories. im trying to prepare for my suregery. its tomorrow afternoon. im not an athlete at all; just a reg college student who collided with a friend and ended up basically tearing every ligament off my knee. ive torn my lcl and acl. when i went down they think my ligamnets ripped off the top of my fibia. my dr said they have to use a screw to put my bone back and because my damage is so extensive they are using a cadaver graft to rebuild my lcl. maybe even use one of my own hamstings. my doc basically said he wont truely know until he gets in to see all the damage. i dont know what to expect. ive only had minor, very minor surgery and just the fact that i cant use my leg and i probably wont until july is scary. im afraid of the pain and deathly afraid of the exercises and how much they will push the limits. if anyone could help give me some more insight id really appreciate it! thanks kelley

Ralph
April 2, 2007 10:49 PM

Here's my 2 cents on some common questions I've seen above re ACL recons (I had mine done on 10/20/06). A good surgery and diligent post-op PT are assumed. It just has to happen. But one really important thing not to overlook is PRE-op PT. Once you start PT after an injury but before surgery, you should work to get your knee in the best shape possible, as if surgery is not an option. I wouldn't decide to go through an ACL recon until being satisfied I had fully rehabilitated my knee as much as possible. You need to carefully consider your situation and what activities you want your knee to support. The more demands you intend to place on your knee (playing high impact sports, etc.), the more likely you will want to go through with the ACL recon. But if your demands will not be so great, then you might consider just having your torn meniscus (or whatever) cleaned up, and really focussing on strengthing the rest of your knee, and keeping it that way. The silver lining on the knee injury (at least for those who at some point slacked off conditioning which perhaps contributed to the injury) is that it compels you to get back into a regular exercise and cardio (think lots of biking) routine. Yes, post-op PT is difficult, especially at the beginning. But remember: what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Finally, I'd still appreciate any input re my 4/1/07 (no joke) post. Thanks.

Philip
April 4, 2007 1:30 AM

I am new to this website. I had ACL reconstructive surgery about a week ago. The recovery is slow going... but, nothing to fear. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. At times this is hard to remember. My best advice is to be proactive with your PT, and the exercises that they give you to stregthen your quad, hamstrings, and knee at home. Some of the exercises are challenging to do....especially, the knee straighteneing exercises that they assign you to perform regularly. Other than that, it is nothing to fear, and the surgery beats the alternative. (Weak knee, and so forth!!!) I have a few questions/concerns...on my mind??? How much weight should I be distrubting to my surgery leg when walking with crutches? Also, how many hours a day should I be walking around with crutches after one week out from surgery for optimal strength recovery w/o over doing it? I appreciate any feedback to the post surgery recovery period. Thoughts/comments, etc...

Bryan
April 4, 2007 4:23 PM

Hey Phil, I had my ACL surgery just over a month ago and I can definitely give you some advice about the weight bearing thing because it caused a bit of a problem for me. I was really strong going in, had prehabbed really hard for about a month preop. When I came out I was 110 degrees of flexion and almost full extension within 3 days (my first postop PT session). I thought I was cruising right along, and got a little over zealous with the walking thing because although they tell you that you can put full weight on it, your leg may not be ready for that--at least mine wasn't. I could put full weight on it no problem but putting weight at the different angles needed for walking was not something that my leg was strong enough for. I got bruised up like crazy and the inside of my leg (near the big incision) gave me problems for about a week. For some people (especially lighter people it might not be much of an issue) but for me, putting full weight through my leg during the first week did not work out well. I tried walking around without my crutches after about 7 days and the biggest caution I would offer is TAKE IT SLOW! The range of motion is by far the more important thing to concentrate on at the beginning rather than strength and even walking. I had so much pain I had to go back to the crutches for a week and then kept one crutch for another week and a half. I concentrated on my ROM for those weeks (and did my strengthening) but stopped worrying so much about walking until I felt strong. When we did the treadmill in PT for the first time and started at 5 mins. 3 weeks out of surgery, I realized that walking around for an hour was WAY beyond what I was capable of and that's why I was set back so far. Start slow and ease into it, especially if you don't have a brace (my doctor doesn't use them--and many docs are going that way). I've seen people in PT who have the brace and were able to walk alot more than I was alot sooner but I would take 1 crutch over those damn braces any day and it's only an extra week or two. Work your way up slowly, I never used the crutches to bear too much weight but the little that it takes off really helps you to gradually build up to the point where you don't need them. Just do what you can and don't try to push it too hard, your going to spend plenty of time over the next couple of weeks learning how to walk again--there's no need to rush and cause yourself any setbacks

Jenny
April 5, 2007 10:49 PM

Phil: as far as walking goes, do whatever is tolerable. For the past couple of surgeries I was able to stop using crutches after just three or four days and walked/hobbled about wherever. Walking does not put much stress upon the ACL but if the knee swells even more, gets hotter, bruises, or there is heightened discomfort of course stay on crutches or use them to assist you in partial weight baring

Jenny
April 5, 2007 10:52 PM

Phil: I was also in one of those awful braces, but they do allow you to walk sooner, like Bryan noted

John
April 6, 2007 2:41 AM

Hi guys, I had ACL reconstruction surgery and meniscectomy 6 weeks and 4 days ago. I am still struggling to walk. I have been using one crutch for the past week and a half. I've been hobbling on it without crutches at different times during the past week but I feel that I am progressing very slowly. There is pain on the inside of my knee at different times when attempting to walk without crutches. My surgeon made me discard my brace after week 2. has anybody experienced something similar and any suggestions? Thanks, John from Melbourne, Australia.

John
April 6, 2007 2:42 AM

Hi guys, I had ACL reconstruction surgery and meniscectomy 6 weeks and 4 days ago. I am still struggling to walk. I have been using one crutch for the past week and a half. I've been hobbling on it without crutches at different times during the past week but I feel that I am progressing very slowly. There is pain on the inside of my knee at different times when attempting to walk without crutches. My surgeon made me discard my brace after week 2. Has anybody experienced something similar and any suggestions? Thanks, John from Melbourne, Australia.

Ralph
April 6, 2007 9:25 PM

John- I wasn't close to walking normal six weeks after my ACL recon. I am now 5 1/2 months post-op, and I still have a slight limp (esp after pronlonged sitting or inactivity). But recovery is progressing. There have been days when I felt I was not progressing, or even regressing, but overall, the trend has been positive, albeit slow. Keep doing the exercises your doctor or PT recommends and don't get discouraged. Also, as you get more ROM and mobility, you might experience new/different knee pains as you get through each phase of your recovery. Good luck.

John
April 8, 2007 1:51 AM

Ralph, thanks for your advice. I feel more reassured knowing that slow progress is not uncommon. I think the thing I've learnt is that constant post-operative exercising and patience will prevail. Gains not made today will bring you closer to gains tomorrow-if you do the necessary work.

sarah
April 10, 2007 5:53 PM

i had acl reconstruction surgery about 5 months ago. right now its the biggest regret of my life. i am playing soccer again, before the surgery i was good at it, but now i feel like i can't do anything. everything is wrong. this surgery has messed up my life to an extent where i just want to quit soccer in whole. i used to adore this sport, i lived for it. but now after every practice i go home and cry becuase i never think ill fully recover. i had the surgery where they replaced my torn one with another persons, my knee feels great, after the surgery i used crutches for one day, and the night of the surgery i went to a football game, crazy because everytime i stood up i threw up, so probaly not so smart. but just the whole agility thing and its messed up my fitness. I didn't realize what the surgery was going to do to my soccer playing and now, i honestly regret having the surgery. i hate acl's they suck...thanks bye

Jenny
April 11, 2007 10:08 PM

For sarah, it is incredibly frustrating, but if soccer means a lot to you, stick with it. Unfortunately it takes a lot of work and a lot of time to get back and depends from person to person. For one of the girls on my team it took her over a year to get back to where she used to be and that was practicing for 2 hours a day, 5 days a week, for others it takes a few months. either way, it takes a lot of time and effort. however, i do have some advice. -improve your general fitness, go for runs, lift light weights. this will help you feel stronger and faster and even if your ball skills are not back to where you want them to be, you can still outrun and outlast everyone, which will aslo make you more confident -look into "speed school". ask a fitness center or coach if they know of anyone who teaches speed classes. at these sessions you do small, rapid footwork and agility which will help your feet get back to moving faster. -drop down a level. find a team which doesn't have such good players as the ones you are playing with now. play with the less skilled players until you get your skill back, are beating the crap out of them, you feel better about your skills, and are ready to return to your regular group. for example, I dropped down to a premier level 2 team for a year. -grab a ball and find a wall (if you can't find a friend). just pass the ball against the wall from different distances, work on your first touch, use different surfaces of your feet, get as many touches on the ball as you can -juggle and do skill work. dribble around obstacles, dribble at different speeds, practice your moves, juggle all of these will help you, i promise, they helped me come back from all 4 of my ACLs and i'm still playing college soccer. but yes, i've also cried (even in the middle of practice because my first touch was awful) and considered quitting, but only briefly, because soccer is worth it. good luck and i hope you stick with it! let me know if you need any help or have any questions

Mik
April 13, 2007 5:33 AM

i had my ACL reconstructed 2 weeks ago. i tore my ACL, medial and did damage to the miniscus. it has only been two weeks and i stoped walking with crutches after the first week and am now walking normally but i am so frustrated at how long it is taking! i can't believe people are suposed to not play for 6 months! i need to recover faster! any tips?

Nigel Carter
April 13, 2007 11:04 PM

Mik just posted my experience, I've learned that you cannot rush this congrats!! your past the first hurdle now let you body heal, If i were you wait for a couple more weeks before you do anything, do the stretches and bends as I have found that you can bend the knee more a little each time it's only been 4 months into my right knee surgery and I can pull my foot back behind my butt (Mind you I tried to make the scar tissue rip so that wouldnot stop me from getting all the flexibilty back. I was back to Jogging within 2 months and riding my bike at 3 months (opt for the Bike as it is easier on the knee)

Sarah B
April 15, 2007 10:02 AM

hey everyone, i posted my story around july of last year. back in may, i was playing soccer with my team and i was tackled by another player. my knee twisted and i heard two pops, and after going to the hospital and getting an mri i was told i tore my lateral meniscus and 40% of my acl. after school was over, my doctor preformed arthoscopic surgery on my knee. he told me that we would try this surgery first, and if it proves unsuccessful then i would have a reconstruction done. during my surgery, the torn part of my acl was removed and thermal shrinking was done to it. it's been about 9 1/2 months since my surgery and although there has been a major improvement, it is still very swollen and i have many problems with it. Everyday i wake up and my knee is stiff and it takes a long time for it to actually pop and become straighter. At school, i cannot sit for long periods of time because it makes my knee stiff and when i walk i have a noticable limp. After all the physical therapy i have done i still cant make it straight and i cannot bend it all the way. i used to run track and i was a fast sprinter. in my freshman year, i broke the record for my school in the 55m dash. now in my sophmore year and still recovering from the surgery, i have tried running again and it is not the same. my doctor is well known and has a good reputation. Despite all this pain, during every checkup he has told me that my knee is healing great and my acl is fine. i have a few questions i hope someone can answer: does anyone know if this recovery time is prolonged or is it normal? if i ice for longer periods of time, will it help stop the pain? my ankle and hip on the same side of my bad knee are starting to ache recently. is there anything i can do about that? are there any tips to help speed up my improvement? - sarah.

Lilly
April 15, 2007 9:32 PM

Hi everyone, I've been reading on the comments posted and all are very interesting and provide lots of good info. Well I tore my acl at a soccer game and underwent full acl reconstruction on march 13, 2007 i was doing real well with the excersice a slower progress than expected but overall ok but on thursday while trying to do a full turn on a stationary bike i feel as if i hurt my knee more it feels different now its alot more painful and it feels as if i stress right below my kneecap everytime i walk im scared of doing my exercises and hurting my knee again is this normal? could i have damaged my acl again? please repost with a experiences you have had.. Good luck to anyone having surgery or going through recovery

joe
April 15, 2007 11:46 PM

Wow, Adam I had the exact same injury playing indoor soccer doing the same move. It was a defensive play. Had surgery a couple of days ago in India but have ended up with only one cut and two holes. My doc is supposedly one of the best out there so feeling pretty confident on everything. Thanks for the site.

Wesley
April 16, 2007 5:09 PM

Hey all, I'm 20 I tore my ACL part of my LCL and fractured my femeur snowboarding, had sugrery 5wks ago. PT is going good, walking fine and have 146 degrees of bend in the knee. Anyway I Hope to be able to run a triathlon in 5 months from now. If anyone who has been through rehab could tell me i would like to know how long it was before you were able to bike, swim, run. Thanks

Liz
April 17, 2007 11:12 AM

While playing LC in a softball game, my RC collided with me with a lot of force. I now have a fully torn ACL & a partial MCL tear... needless to say I am a little freaked out about having surgery. I wanted to say thank you for putting your own story in such a public place; there is only so much you can count on a doctor to tell you. Hearing personal stories helps me to better understand the post-effects and gives me a little more confidence going into the whole thing. SO, thank you again!

EAP
April 18, 2007 7:55 PM

Hey Lilly - I had a similar pain under my knee cap a few weeks ago, which was about 3 months after my ACL reconstruction (I was completely non-weight bearing on my right leg because I also tore my meniscus) . For me it was particularly painful going down stairs. It was also very fustrating because I felt like I had been doing so well. You'll be pleased to know that the pain went away after a few days of taking it semi-easy. I did my physical therapy exercises but tried to be particularly good about icing, taking elevators where possible, and not doing anything that hurt too much. Both my doctor and my physical therapist thought that it was probably a product of things getting pulled in a different direction than they should be as my muscles were getting stronger. On the dark side, they said it could take a year for my muscles to get back to full strength.

Mairead
April 20, 2007 2:26 PM

I had acl reconstruction with my patella tendon and a repaired meniscus three weeks ago today. I started driving yesterday and am on 1 crutch. I can only bend to 90 degrees because of swelling and tight muscles. I feel that this is preventing me from progresses as fast as I would like. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I am normaly very active and athletic, tore the acl skiing. I need to get back to that lifestyle, going nuts.

TJ
April 21, 2007 5:09 PM

hey guys. i was on this website a lot before i had my surgery just to see what i was getting myself into. I tore my acl playing football. turf. makes it fast but much more injury prone. anyways so i had my surgery on tuesday april 17 2007. i was in the room at 8 am and on the road home by 11:15 am. i fell asleep a little on the ride home. when i got home i ate a protein bar and sat down and watched tv. i fell asleep again for another 2 hours. i used my cryocuff before i fell asleep and didn't empty it. needless to say 2 hours is two much. i woke up in some pain. i took 1 pain killer instead of two because i didn't know how strong they would be. i have never taken pain killers before except for the odd advil. that lasted me the rest of the day. i went to sleep at around 1am. i took 2 pain killers just to help me sleep. i didn't move from the couch that day. i feel asleep right on it. wednesday i pretty much just stayed in bed. got some sleep and only needed to take pain killers once. thursday i moved around (with crutches). i took pain killers twice on thursday but that was the last time i took them. friday morning i went to physio and did some stretches. i was able to get a little more than a 90 degree bend and i was able to make my leg perfectly straight. the therapist said i can start trying to put weight on it. i tried a little with 1 crutch. i went out friday night for dinner at east side marios with some friends. i brought the crutches. they make me a little faster and i didn't want to create a scene incase i hurt myself. later that night i was walking around my place without cructhes but just from my room to the bathroom. of course my splint is always on. sat i woke feeling pretty good. i got up and started walking around without the crutches. haven't used then once today. i did however have one problem. i've been told that because i was taking medication it could have stopped some daily bathroom activities.lol. this was true until today. so I strongly advise people to take some sort of minor laxadive just to help. aaaaaaannnnnnnyyywwwaaaaaaayyyyyssssssss. i slept alot today because i'm starting to get really comfortable with being on my back. i sleep on my side or stomach usually. hopefully i will be able to get this splint off soon. i'll just keep doing my exercises and only time will tell. good luck to everyone who's going into it. i don't know if my experience was normal but it really wasn't that bad. i will post my major progresses.

SP
April 23, 2007 10:34 AM

I have to go for surgery probably in June as I have torn off both ACL and meniscus. How much of time-off I should be expecting? I pretty much have a sitting job of programming but I just started my job, so I cannot take a more 1 - 2 weeks off. Please let me know. I am very upset about this. Thanks SP

LMR
April 24, 2007 1:33 PM

This is in response to SP, who asked about how much time off of his desk job is required. In Feb. I tore the ACL, MCL and torn medial meniscus skiing. I had surgery Mon. April 16th to reconstruct the ACL from the hamstring and for a meniscectomy. I am a lawyer, so mainly I sit at a desk. I took one week off of work, but was able to check in on our computer network at home for a couple hours last week and started back in the office Monday the 23rd. It's not so bad, though I don't move from the desk much. I keep my leg elevated on a stool will a pillow on it under my desk and keep icing it. I am not working as many hours as I was prior to the surgery, but I'm sure I'll be back to that next week. Anyway, I would tell your employer that you need a minimum of one week off, then if you come back early you're a hero and if you need more time they're already on notice. I am wondering when my therapist will tell me it's okay to get back to riding the stationary bike. She seems concerned that doing too much too soom might hurt the newly constructed tendon.

LMR
April 24, 2007 1:33 PM

This is in response to SP, who asked about how much time off of his desk job is required. In Feb. I tore the ACL, MCL and torn medial meniscus skiing. I had surgery Mon. April 16th to reconstruct the ACL from the hamstring and for a meniscectomy. I am a lawyer, so mainly I sit at a desk. I took one week off of work, but was able to check in on our computer network at home for a couple hours last week and started back in the office Monday the 23rd. It's not so bad, though I don't move from the desk much. I keep my leg elevated on a stool will a pillow on it under my desk and keep icing it. I am not working as many hours as I was prior to the surgery, but I'm sure I'll be back to that next week. Anyway, I would tell your employer that you need a minimum of one week off, then if you come back early you're a hero and if you need more time they're already on notice. I am wondering when my therapist will tell me it's okay to get back to riding the stationary bike. She seems concerned that doing too much too soom might hurt the newly constructed tendon.

TJ
April 24, 2007 8:49 PM

well i was doing awesome today at PT. Then i get home relax for a few hours. start doing my streches and then ouch. i felt it near the bottom of the hamstring. it's made my leg feel really weird for the past few hours. i'm hoping i haven't ruined the graft. has anyone else had this happen to them?

Diana
April 25, 2007 6:30 AM

Our 18 yr. old daughter who is a competitive soccer player, going to play in college, recently tore her acl. Though I am sure the surgeon will have a preference, I would like to hear anyones thoughts about which graft to use. Sounds like the most recent articles that I've found are leaning toward the hamstring graft. Any thoughts would be appreciated as we try to make this decision.

SP
April 25, 2007 11:48 AM

Thanks a lot for your reply. Please keep me informed about your progress. This gives me some hope. SP

SP
April 25, 2007 11:50 AM

By the way How was the pain at the beginning? How did you manage it? SP

ac
April 26, 2007 1:22 PM

im only 16 and im going into surgery in a few weeks. the doctors aren't exactly sure how long i have been playing on this injury but it doesn't look good. my doctor mentioned something about a cpm machine which would move my leg for me after i got out of surgery so i wouldnt have to do it on my own. were you ever in the machine?

cody
April 26, 2007 5:25 PM

ok now that is just nasty, I got knee surgery last year, and it wasnt that big, and they moved my whole kneecap around, that is really gross, i dont understand why you would put this on a website, its just REALLY gross, so naturally i assume ur really gross.

Lance
April 27, 2007 10:03 AM

I had acl,lcl,and cartlidge damage done on feb 13 07 and had it operated on april 13 07 , friday the 13!!! as far as the surgery it went well i also had a cpm 150 leg machine it helped me a lot to get the movement back in my leg , but kid you not it really hurt , it is now the second week after my surgery and i can almost put all my weight on my leg (left) also had right leg acl done in 1985 it was alot more complicated it was mainly reconstruction, but it all went well, all i can tell you (who ever) dont give up it will hurt but you will eventually get back to yourself soon, good luck,Lance

Lance
April 27, 2007 10:03 AM

I had acl,lcl,and cartlidge damage done on feb 13 07 and had it operated on april 13 07 , friday the 13!!! as far as the surgery it went well i also had a cpm 150 leg machine it helped me a lot to get the movement back in my leg , but kid you not it really hurt , it is now the second week after my surgery and i can almost put all my weight on my leg (left) also had right leg acl done in 1985 it was alot more complicated it was mainly reconstruction, but it all went well, all i can tell you (who ever) dont give up it will hurt but you will eventually get back to yourself soon, good luck,Lance

Kendall
April 27, 2007 10:46 AM

I had my 2nd ACL surgery (left knee this time) on April 13th also! I tore my right ACL 3 years ago. I can not believe I have to go through this rehab for the 2nd time. I tore both playing soccer. My surgeon said it is genetic tearing ligaments, so if you have torn one, you are likely to tear the other! They didn't tell me this after my 1st surgery! I had 100% recovery when they took my hamstring to replace he ACL so we did the same thing on my left. It has been 2 weeks since surgery and I feel that I can walk but for some reason I'm a little scared. My knee feels a little weak still. I can straighten my knee which is very important and my flexion is at about 110. i can go backwards in the stationary bike! but not forward yet. If anyone had any questions about rehab I have already been through this 3 years ago so i can answer any questions or concerns! Wish me a speedy recovery for this 2nd ACL rehab!

TJ
April 28, 2007 12:53 PM

Hey kendall, I had my acl surger on april 17 (tuesday). by friday i was walking on it full weight without crutches but with a splint. by the next tuesday 1 week i was walking on it without the splint. however i'm walking with a limp. i can't really bend my leg back due to hamstring pain. however when i go to physio while having my legs hang from a table i can bend much over 90 degrees. we haven't measured yet. i too had the hamstring used. i was just wondering when i should start expecting to be able to bend my leg while i walk. also when the swelling should be going down. i started the bike at my last appointment which was 9 days after surgery. i was able to get full motion front and back. it's just getting frustrating with the hamstring not being able to walk properly.

Brenda
April 29, 2007 9:35 AM

Hi there. I posted 4-28 but I must have done something wrong because it seems to have disappeared. I have complete tears to my acl and mcl, a sprained, partially torn, lcl and damage to my medial miniscus. Has anyone heard of the the completely torn mcl repairing itself? Also, I am having acl surgery, via allograft, on 6-20. Any recommended time on when I'll be able to drive? Dr. said probably 2 weeks but of course I am hoping for sooner. Thanks Adam for the site. Great support. I must say, I am a nursing student but after seeing your pictures, it puts things in a completely different perspective when it comes to it "happening to me." I am sure the experience will enhance my understanding to my future patients.

Kendall
April 29, 2007 9:49 AM

TJ, the hamstring is the most difficult to rehab. It will prob never be back 100%. If you just keep doing exercises likw hamstring curls standing up I'm sure it will improve faster. I think it did take a few months to get my hamstring working properly again. It's tuff because our hamstrings are weaker now since they took some for the surgery. I did have a limp for about 2-3 months, but I think that is longer than normal. As for swelling, swelling should go down in about 6 weeks after surgery. And that too will then make it easier to walk with no limp.

Kendall
April 29, 2007 9:50 AM

Brenda, I drive an automatic and tore my left ACL...so I was driving in a week and a half. But when I tore my right...I think it was about 3 weeks until I felt comfortable driving.

mary
April 29, 2007 11:09 AM

SP: The standard recommendation seems to be 1-2 weeks off for desk work (such as yours). I took 2 weeks off because I have to go up a flight of steps to get to my office, and I wanted to be safe. I would have been fine going back after 1 week, though, if I had needed to do so. I did find, though, that I felt better for the first 4 weeks or so after surgery if I could elevate my leg from time to time. If you can put your leg up on a stool or chair at work, you'll probably be fine.

Brenda
April 29, 2007 10:09 PM

Thanks Kendall. Did anyone use the recirculating ice machine. From what I hear, insurance may or may not cover the cost and I am not sure it's worth the expense. Any feed back on how everyone iced their knee after surgery. Also, trying to get an idea of how often/long the PT was after the surgery?????

Erich
April 30, 2007 4:42 AM

I had acl replacement w/allograft and medial miniscus surgery(04/03/07). I thought the recirculating ice machine was very helpful, as my helper didn't have one more thing to do for me. Pt for me is twice a week and to the gym 2-3 times. Age has a played a big part in the recovery time. I see 16 year old walking 2 weeks after surgery with almost no limp. I 'm 30 years older and must wear the brace for 6 weeks as per the doc. I still get some shooting pains, but am thinking they will go as the swelling goes. the saying should be pain in the knee, no one has ever had their *** replaced. Good luck to all, my it only happen once.

lisa
April 30, 2007 5:08 AM

i had acl surgery 3 months ago. i chose to use a cadaver tendon for a quicker recovery. everyone seems to recover differently. i was off my crutches by the end of my first week. i was cycling by my second week. my doctor did not have me in a brace and i was required to be able to bend my knee 120 degrees by the end of my first week. i used my passive motion machine religiously and i feel that helped tremendously. my doctor was very aggressive and encouraged me to be ambitious when it came to therapy and working out. like i said, everyone recovers differently, but i do think i would be hesitant about using a brace. to me, it seems it would hinder the recovery process, but then again, i'm not a doctor. good luck to all who plan to have acl surgery.

Michael
April 30, 2007 7:58 AM

Hi all - I just had ACL surgery on April 19 (right knee, BTB allograft). I found this website to be very helpful, and I wanted to pass along a few observations of my own. 1. Prehab - Once the decision was made to go with the surgery, I started hitting the gym as frequently as possible. The elliptical machines don't bother my knees, so that was my cardio portion, which I followed up with leg presses, extensions and curls. 2. Post-op - ice, ice, ice, ice, ice, then ice some more. I wore the Cryo Cuff around the clock for the first five days and I never had any swelling issues. 3. I save the most important point for last, because it's been the most stressful experience of my recovery to date. This was the first time I've ever taken Oxycodone, and while the drug works wonders on the pain, it comes with side effects (constipation and stomach discomfort were at the top of the list). On the sixth day, I didn't have any pain, so I stopped taking it. I wasn't aware that you don't quit Oxy cold turkey; you need to wean yourself off it, even if you've only been taking it for a few days. About 8 hours after my last pill, the chills started; these, along with night sweats, lasted for four days. My advice is to talk to your doctor to make sure you fully understand what you're taking, and what you need to do to avoid going through withdrawal. Best of luck to all - Michael

Katrena
April 30, 2007 9:13 AM

I just had my surgery the 24th of April. They had me in PT the day after. Which I was shocked they started to move my leg and by the end of that week we had it at a 60 degree angle. This weekend, I didn't move it for one day and it has stiffened up. I know I have to move it but my Mother which is helping me, jerks my leg back and forth and causes much pain. Is there anything I need to do that I am not already?

Katrena
April 30, 2007 9:13 AM

I just had my surgery the 24th of April. They had me in PT the day after. Which I was shocked they started to move my leg and by the end of that week we had it at a 60 degree angle. This weekend, I didn't move it for one day and it has stiffened up. I know I have to move it but my Mother which is helping me, jerks my leg back and forth and causes much pain. Is there anything I need to do that I am not already?

Tim
April 30, 2007 5:36 PM

Hello everyone, I had my Left ACL w\allograft and menistectamy performed on March 8th 2007. I am now almost 8 weeks post-op. The entire process has pretty much been pain free thus far. I even only used the pain killers for 2 days but i didnt really need them. I read your posts and comments before and after the surgery and feel that it is great to have a forum like this to share experiences about this proceedure. I do have a question for all of those that have had this survery. My leg muscles are quickly coming back, however my knee still feels slightly loose. I spoke to my doc about this and he said that it will go away as the muscles build back up. Has anyone else felt this as well and if so did it go away? Thanks again Tim

Chris
May 1, 2007 9:26 AM

I had my ACL reconstruction operation on the 25th April. I left hospital on the 27th. The knee was (is) very swollen, and I still have pain and bruising, particularly on my shin, behind my knee, and in the hamstring region. The knee feels strong, clicks occasionally, but on the whole feels 'right'. Its slow progress, but I guess the swelling will subside soon. Keeping it moving appears key.

M
May 1, 2007 10:41 AM

My situation doesn't involve acl surgery. I fractured my femur (head of hip bone) while skiing. Surgery was placing 3 pins to hold my hipbone. It has been 1 month. It will be another month before I begin weight-bearing on feet. On crutches now. 6 months recovery. The 1st 2 weeks were the worst. Have begun Physio -- moving the body and getting circulation back. I worry about how this will change my life, what I can and cannot do, etc. I will be cautious because I never want to experience this again. Trying to keep positive, M

Erich
May 2, 2007 5:07 AM

While we go through these changes/sergury we often think about what we will do differently what I will or won't do next time. I went back to the ski slope and watched and watched. It made me more determined to work hard in pt. This is about my recreation time, my fun. We spend all our time learning how to do things, work/ school, this recovery is for me and my what will make me happy. So chin up and work hard it is so very worth it. Stay focused.

Kendall
May 2, 2007 7:18 PM

I agree. Being positive, motivated and focused is SO important. You may have off days or feel sometimes that you are not progressing or getting better but you have to look at you improvements. Keep remembering how far you have come. Maybe keep a journal. I am going on 3 weeks right now after surgery and I feel I have come so far since my first pt session. I know I have months to go but I keep trying to think about how much better I am doing than the day before.

B.M.
May 3, 2007 11:42 PM

Hey, Just a note to say I'm getting my surgery (hamstring ACL on May 8th), I enjoy the feedback

Alp
May 4, 2007 3:53 PM

Yesterday I had the acl/medial meniscus repair operation with the allograft (achilles tendon) option. I have a 'polar care' ice machine that provides cold therapy to my left knee and I am supposed to keep it for three days. I am on Oxycodone right now and taking it every 5-6 hours. So far there has been very little pain after the operation and I was able to walk around in my apartment bearing some weight on my left foot -even yesterday. The hardest part, so far, has been the drive from the hospital back to home during which I was feeling so nauseaus. At this point, my knee does not bend up easily. Do you think it's too early to start pushing it and forcing my knee to bend the day after surgery?

Pete E
May 4, 2007 11:10 PM

Im 11 weeks post op using hamstring. Still feel knee is weak and kneecap feels tight. Hard to imagine getting back to normal Pete

Michael
May 5, 2007 10:39 AM

Hey Alp - With an allograft, if you try bending your knee too early, you run the risk of stretching it out and basically rendering it useless. As a point of reference, I didn't start my physical therapy until 11 days after my surgery; this was mainly a scheduling issue on my part, but my doctor didn't want me going for therapy until after I'd had my post-op appointment with him. I'm now 15 days post-op; my PT started this past Monday and I've gone from 50 degrees to 100 degrees flexion with gradual work over five days. I'd recommend sticking with your doctor's protocol and not trying to force anything. Best of luck - Michael

Alp
May 5, 2007 4:51 PM

Thanks Michael- My post op is scheduled for May 7th which is in two days. I guess you're right, I probably should stick with the basic bed exercises -such as ankle pumping and leg raises- instead of coming up with some of my own. I'd hate to mess something up at this point. I just wanted to make sure that I was moving my knee as much as I should to avoid any stiffness. Is the Continuous Passive Motion a "must use" device after all acl surgeries ? I have not been given one and I wonder if I should have. Cold Therapy - Reading several comments above, I realized that not everyone has received a cold therapy machine after their acl surgery. My advise, check with your doctor before the surgery and find out if you will be provided with a cold therapy machine. The machine that I am currently using is great and is called Polar Care 300. You can get one from ebay for about $50-$140 and is worth the money. They are about 10''x10''x10'' in size and are mainly used to avoid post op swelling in your knee. You probably already know from PT how relieving those CT devices are. Btw, I had my operation in Atlanta by Dr Michael Bernot, who is the Hawks' team orthopaedist. If you're in the area and looking for a good acl surgeon, I'd absolutely recommend him. For any questions you can contact me, Alper Akyildiz, alpakyildiz(at)yahoo.com

Kendall
May 6, 2007 1:40 PM

some surgeons dont offer the CPM machine as an option but I highly recommend it. In between physical therapy sessions I used the CPM machine and it helped me move my knee since I didnt have the muscle strength yet. You only have it for about 3 weeks and it goes to about 120 degrees.

John
May 7, 2007 5:26 AM

Hey Peter E, I am also 11 weeks post-op using hamstring graft. My knee also feels weak but it is getting stronger through the use of a stationary bike and gymnasium (hamstring curls and leg presses). Walking up stairs is also helping. I must admit that the whole process is like watching grass grow, it is improving at a slow rate. Hopefully, my recovery accelerates from here. John from Melbourne, Australia.

TJ
May 7, 2007 6:55 PM

hey everybody. i'm about 3 weeks now post op. last week i had my flexion measured and i was at 112. today all of a sudden i started getting really sharp pains on the inside of my knee when i walk. i've also noticed that when i'm sitting with my knee bent at 90 degrees and i lift my foot off the ground a little i feel this really weird feeling in at the top of my shin. almost as if something was moving. almost like my lower leg was dropping a little. could this just be the scar tissue or does this sound serious

Bill, England
May 8, 2007 12:52 PM

For those that have just had ACL surgery, don't dispair! To recap, I suffered a freak injury playing rugby & snapped the acl in each knee. One was repaired in September 2005 & the right one in August 2006, both using hamstring grafts. At times I thought the knees would never work properly again. With the help of a good physio and staged program (& perseverance), I am almost back to full fitness. As proof, I hit 50 years young in July & mentioned to my surgeon last August that I had wanted to learn to ski before my half century came around. He promised to have me ready for the 2007 season. My two pre-50 goals were achieved. In March 2007, I gained my 1st degree ITF Taekwon-do black belt and as from April, I can now ski (mostly upright & sometimes in control!). Apart from the odd twinge, there has been no bad reactions. In fact, due to the exercise regime from my physio, I was probably the only one of our party of 16 that was not aching or suffering from fatigue by the end of our holiday. Ihave a further check up with my surgeon & physio in a couple of months time, but everything is looking good. Basically, I am submitting this to help everyone who has just undergone the op & think it is the end of a fully active life. I took heart from reading other peoples thoughts as I took on 18 months of work. Please don't give up, it does get better & the more work you put in, the greater the reward. So good luck everyone, if a grey haired old man like me can do it, anyone can!

Alp
May 8, 2007 9:05 PM

hi all - 5 day post op with achilles allogaft (left knee).. so far not so bad.. i quit taking painkillers after day 3.. day 4, i started my PT which was yesterday. i was able to go 85 degrees. this morning i woke up with this pain in my left calf and it didn't get any better through out the day.. it's not so bad that it makes me want to start the painkillers but it's tight and discomforting.. Can this calf pain be due to yesterday's PT or just a normal pain after an acl operation ? Have a good one!

Sasha
May 9, 2007 7:26 AM

I have a exact same problem. I am 2 weeks post-op. They used hamstring tendons for acl repair. About fifth day post-op my whole calf was killing me ecpecialy when I stand-up from the bed. It is getting better now but my right calf is still tender to touch and when I am sitting for a long time it start's to ache. I do not know I was scared a little bit about deep venous thrombosis, but my doctor and PT did not say anything when I mentioned this detail to him. My calf is less painful now but it is still tense like I overworked it.

Catherine
May 10, 2007 9:40 PM

Could I please have some comments on recovery? I am scheduled to have a patellar tendon allograph in a few weeks, the first available time my surgeon has. I scheduled it when I did with the anticipation of skiing the upcoming season. However, I am concerned about the immediate post-op demands relative to my work schedule. I am wondering if I ought to post-pone the surgery until I can lighten the work obligation. How long has it taken you post-op folks to feel well? How long did it take have a clear head after ansethesia? How long did it take to go from pain to ache after the surgery? What is the daily physical therapy commitment? How fatiguing has the physical therapy been?

TJ
May 11, 2007 6:27 AM

i think it all depends on your job. if you have a desk job depending on how you heal you could go back if you are able to make your self comfortable after the first week. I'm on my feet all day so i got 3 weeks off however i think i was ready to go back to work after 2. Don't take this as set in stone. also My surgeon had used the hamstring for my graft. just prepare your self because everyday brings a new set of feelings. oh yeah as for delaying it.... Don't. if you do you could cause more damage. also if you delay and the only avail. time he has is near the winter you could slip on ice and ruin the whole thing. however that depends where you live and if you get snow.

TJ
May 11, 2007 6:27 AM

i think it all depends on your job. if you have a desk job depending on how you heal you could go back if you are able to make your self comfortable after the first week. I'm on my feet all day so i got 3 weeks off however i think i was ready to go back to work after 2. Don't take this as set in stone. also My surgeon had used the hamstring for my graft. just prepare your self because everyday brings a new set of feelings. oh yeah as for delaying it.... Don't. if you do you could cause more damage. also if you delay and the only avail. time he has is near the winter you could slip on ice and ruin the whole thing. however that depends where you live and if you get snow.

Alp
May 11, 2007 5:48 PM

Post-op Blood Clot - what do you do next ?!? After the ultrasound scan today, we figured out the cause of my calf pain. Unfortunately, the vascular technicial detected two blood clots in my lower left calf. They already injected one Lovenox -blood thinner- at the ER this afternoon. I had a chance to speak to my OS at the hospital too and I will need to get 20 more blood thinner shots in the next 10 days. There is disappointment, on the other hand, I am glad that this is detected and it has not gone unidentified as the consequences could be severe. I mainly fear now that it may delay my PT and affect the recovery time of my knee. So any guidance you can provide or experiences you can share will be greatly appreciated on the post op blood clot issue. Thanks !

Ramelyn
May 16, 2007 10:31 AM

Hello All-- I had ACL reconstruction (allograft) done on 5/1 after having a bad spill on my dirt bike. I completely tore my ACL and while I was at it managed to get a hairline fracture in one of my bones (not sure which one) but that was OK and will heal on its own, no cast needed. The first 48 hours were tough, but since then it has been a speedy recovery. I am able to walk without crutches since for about a week now. My Ortho recommends I wear the knee brace for 4-6 weeks though. I stopped taking meds (Vicodin) by day 3. I felt pretty drowsy for the first 2 days. All I did was eat and sleep! I did go home with the CPM and started doing that for 6-8 hours a day immediately after surgery. I started at 50, but the time I went to my first post op a week later I was at 90. I am at 110 now. I started PT this week. It was pretty brutal but that is to be expected. I also bought the Cold Therapy Unit as it was not covered by insurance. I paid $160 and it helped tons and will help in the future and is good to have to ice any injury. I have minimal swelling but have been advised to still keep my leg elevated and to ice on days that I do PT. I still do the CMP about 2 hours a day. Before the surgery I was really worried about recovery.. But so far it has been quite a breeze. By the Friday after my surgery I started back to work by responding to emails from my Blackberry (I have an office job and pretty much sit all day). I was able to officially start work (from home) a week later. My Dr. gave me a note stating that I should take 3 weeks off, but I worked it out with my manager to work from home so it has been a good thing. I sit most of the day in a recliner and get up and walk around quite frequently. I am planning to be back in the office next week. Good luck to all!

Ramelyn
May 16, 2007 10:32 AM

Hi All- I had ACL reconstruction (allograft) done on 5/1 after having a bad spill on my dirt bike. I completely tore my ACL and while I was at it managed to get a hairline fracture in one of my bones (not sure which one) but that was OK and will heal on its own, no cast needed. The first 48 hours were tough, but since then it has been a speedy recovery. I am able to walk without crutches since for about a week now. My Ortho recommends I wear the knee brace for 4-6 weeks though. I stopped taking meds (Vicodin) by day 3. I felt pretty drowsy for the first 2 days. All I did was eat and sleep! I did go home with the CPM and started doing that for 6-8 hours a day immediately after surgery. I started at 50, but the time I went to my first post op a week later I was at 90. I am at 110 now. I started PT this week. It was pretty brutal but that is to be expected. I also bought the Cold Therapy Unit as it was not covered by insurance. I paid $160 and it helped tons and will help in the future and is good to have to ice any injury. I have minimal swelling but have been advised to still keep my leg elevated and to ice on days that I do PT. I still do the CMP about 2 hours a day. Before the surgery I was really worried about recovery.. But so far it has been quite a breeze. By the Friday after my surgery I started back to work by responding to emails from my Blackberry (I have an office job and pretty much sit all day). I was able to officially start work (from home) a week later. My Dr. gave me a note stating that I should take 3 weeks off, but I worked it out with my manager to work from home so it has been a good thing. I sit most of the day in a recliner and get up and walk around quite frequently. I am planning to be back in the office next week. Good luck to all!

Ramelyn
May 16, 2007 10:38 AM

I had ACL reconstruction (allograft) done on 5/1 after having a bad spill on my dirt bike. I completely tore my ACL and while I was at it managed to get a hairline fracture in one of my bones (not sure which one) but that was OK and will heal on its own, no cast needed. The first 48 hours were tough, but since then it has been a speedy recovery. I am able to walk without crutches since for about a week now. My Ortho recommends I wear the knee brace for 4-6 weeks though. I stopped taking meds (Vicodin) by day 3. I felt pretty drowsy for the first 2 days. All I did was eat and sleep! I did go home with the CPM and started doing that for 6-8 hours a day immediately after surgery. I started at 50, but the time I went to my first post op a week later I was at 90. I am at 110 now. I started PT this week. It was pretty brutal but that is to be expected. I also bought the Cold Therapy Unit as it was not covered by insurance. I paid $160 and it helped tons and will help in the future and is good to have to ice any injury. I have minimal swelling but have been advised to still keep my leg elevated and to ice on days that I do PT. I still do the CMP about 2 hours a day. Before the surgery I was really worried about recovery.. But so far it has been quite a breeze. By the Friday after my surgery I started back to work by responding to emails from my Blackberry (I have an office job and pretty much sit all day). I was able to officially start work (from home) a week later. My Dr. gave me a note stating that I should take 3 weeks off, but I worked it out with my manager to work from home so it has been a good thing. I sit most of the day in a recliner and get up and walk around quite frequently. I am planning to be back in the office next week. Good luck to all!

Ramelyn
May 16, 2007 10:41 AM

Ack. Sorry for posting a million times. I kept getting errors and did not know they posted. My bad!

MIKE
May 16, 2007 4:03 PM

hI ALL I HAVE HAD GENZMYE FOR MY LEFT MEDIAL CHONDROL GRADE 4-5 TWICE BOTH TIMES UNSUCCESSFUL?? i SHOULD NOT SAY FAILED BECAUSE I DID RECV SOME PAIN RELIEF BE IT ONLY ABOUT 3WEEKS AND I DID NOTHING TO AGREAVATE THE KNEE I WAS IN CPM FOR 4WEEKS EACH TIME NO WEIGHT BEARING FOR 8 WEEKS?? HELL THE DR NOW WANTS TO DO ALOGRAFT/ WHAT GIVES?? i HAD TESTICLE CANCER AND BLADDER CANCER IN 2001 COULD THIS AFFECTED THE CELLS?? I RECENTLY RETIRED FROM MARINE CORPS AND USE TO RUN 3 MILES A DAY IM ONLY 45 I NEED TO RUN OR WILL I CHEW ON THESE DAME PAIN PILLS MY WHOLE LIFE??/ THANX FOR THE COMMENT BOARD MIK

MzUnderstood
May 21, 2007 4:36 PM

Hi, I'm 37, female, if that makes any differnce. I have to go see a surgeoun about my knee. The MRI shows that I have a torn tendon. I don't know squat about any of this. All I know is that my doctor said, "I didn't think think this was as bad as it is." Last summer I did a twirl, running AND crawling under a fence at the same time. I had an elephand leg! Being of the It's Not So Bad Club, I didn't go see my doctor. The whole summer of 2006 I was a GIMP. Just when I was starting to walk without pain in Nov. I did it again. I was chasing my beagle in the house, and fell. Crawling again. I'm a tough girl, and I was tearing up on the floor crawling around. Big pain, as I'm sure you all know about. Will I ever be the same? I don't want to be a gimp. I have things to do? And I don't want to be a pill junkie. I already have enough compultions :-).

SP
May 23, 2007 8:58 AM

I wanted to find out somebody who choose not to go for surgery for ACL tear. I do not do sports or running. Only exercise I used to do before the accident was walking for 30 minutes. My doctor says many choose not to go for surgery and I do not have to go for it. Will it get bad if I delay it or do not do it at all? Is there anybody who can let me know about this. I am very anxious to know about this

Pam
May 24, 2007 12:50 PM

My surgery is scheduled for June 7th. I, too, tore my ACL while playing indoor soccer. I was trying to find info on about how long I would have to be off work. Unfortunately, I have been at my current job for less than a year, so I am only given 2 weeks Short Term Disability leave. I do not want to use much vacation time. I have an office job, but take the metro into the city and have to do a small amount of walking, some stairs included. I am hoping that it is about 3 weeks like some of you are saying. Any comments are appreciated! It's already helpful to read other's experiences.

victor bryan
June 6, 2007 6:08 AM

i just had my acl done on monday 4th june 2007, i stayed in hospital overnight. i went under general and also had an epidural which numbed my leg. it is now wednesday and the numbness is starting to wear off, and im in the worst pain i have ever felt. does any one know how long this pain will last for.

Terence
June 6, 2007 5:20 PM

i have not had any surgery yet. i probably tore my acl over a year ago, and when i got my knee checked out i had barely any acl left and a small rip in the miniscus. it turns out i actually played hockey for a full season with a torn acl and could feel weekness and unstableness at times, but never had any major issues until recently. however, after hurting it once more it got to the point where i simply tossed a ball and my knee gave out upon pivoting on it which is when i decided to see the doctor. i was planning on putting off the surgery until next winter, but since i didnt get a knee brace and decided to play frisbee i have to do the surgery asap. bottom line is i would have been fine for a while if i didnt do any running or pivoting on my knee and had a brace and surgery wouldnt be as urgent. now i have to go for the surgery asap. i pushed the envelope and hurt it once more, and now my meniscus is torn so bad it wedged up in the front of my knee joint so i cant straighten my leg and have a "locked knee". my problem is i need to work at a camp 4 hours from home and i was supposed to leave on june 21st. im scheduled to get the op 10 days before i leave with the patellar graft i think... i would like to leave asap, and i am wondering if it is possible to do the PT if i know the excercises and have a buddy to help me out. im going to be living in a tent and really dont have any access to professional treatment, and i hope to be there no more than 3 weeks post op. am i pushing it?

bob johnson
June 8, 2007 4:52 PM

reply to Victor Victor your pain will last the rest of your life. Just kidding. In a week or so, mine started feeling much better. I was walking, although slowly with no pain by day 14. My doctor said my knee was in much worse condition than he had first thought. Be sure to stretch as much as posssible and do the rehab.

Andrew Acker
June 11, 2007 7:58 PM

I recently had my acl replaced. I am a 18 year old college sophomore. I had mine done with a cadaver replacement and i will swear by it. I was off crutches completely a week after surgery and had 120 degrees of flex by my check up a week after surgery. I was the kid who didn't want to have my acl replaced because well you can live with out them and a lot of people do. I am glad i had mine replaced because the surgery went way smoother than my scope did. The hardest part is the recovery and not over doing it. It feels great but since its a graft one must be careful not to re injure it by over doing it. Anyone who is debating about doing it don't. I am more than happy with the way mine went and have no complaints. My knee for the first time in years feels stable. Grant it i cant run or play sports for a while but in the long run i know i made the right decision. I did have pre surgery physical therapy and if you can do that do it. I swear by physical therapy because i didn't have the downtime after my surgery which i think was key to my quick recovery.

Jackie
June 15, 2007 5:29 PM

hey I had my surgery in March... I actually tore it on the first day of practise in October anyways long story short I played the season and with a torn ACL.. Im 12 weeks out and Im doing fine, just want to tell people to keep up the good work and youll be fine.

Wesley
June 18, 2007 8:51 AM

Hey all its me again. I am now 3 months post opp and the triathlon training is going good. Yesterday i swam a mile and biked 25. My knee swelled up a little bit but there was no pain. Haven't started and long distance running yet, probably going to hold off for a while to give the graft a little more time to heal. I am doing a lot of PT on my trampoline at home and it seems to really be helping my balance and knee stability i would recommend it if you have access to one. I will probably post again once i am able to run a few miles comfortably. Good luck to everyone. -Wes

kyle vansice
June 20, 2007 10:22 AM

i had an acl surgery 3 weeks ago. i still have considerable pain and can barely walk without cruches. is their anyone who has had such a long recovery and how did it turn out.

Imani Thomas
June 21, 2007 10:23 PM

Hi everyone,I am having an acl surgery on July 23,2007.I am going into my Senior year of high and i've had knee problems for 5 years.I tore my ACL over time,I thought if someone tore their ACL they wouldn't be able to walk or run,I could still do both of those things.I kept playing my sports(football&wrestling).I want to how long it would take for me to get back to form.

Brenda
June 24, 2007 11:25 AM

Hello everyone. I am 5 days post-op from ACL replacement. I too opted for the cadiver tendon. I am having little to no pain when relaxing and moderate pain during my PT exercises. I have been awakened with pain at night. Probably because the lack of movement makes it stiff and hurt. I was up and about every hour since my surgery and have tried to move it as much as possible since the surgery. I am at about 90 degrees flexion at this point. I can walk without crutches or a walker but still use it when out in public. Also, my swelling has been very minimal. I am not using any ice therapy. I was off the major pain meds within 2 days after the surgery. I simply take a couple of 500mg Tylenol before bed and that's it. Good luck to others.

Josh
June 28, 2007 10:55 AM

Hi everyone! I am 6 days post-op from allograft ACL replacement. I am virtually painfree when relaxed but I still have a fair amount of swelling. I am not on ice therapy but i have started to ice it on my own now which brings down the swelling considerably. Due to the swelling I can only flexion to about 65 degrees. Overall I feel I am coming along well. What I am curious about however is the muscle atrophy. About how long will it take before the muscle loss I've sustained is rebuilt? Given that I do moderate workouts. I am very glad I have had this surgery done and I would definitely recommend it to anyone with active lifestyles. And I wish those of you about to have it or those who have had the procedure done already the best of luck.

Erich
July 1, 2007 7:05 AM

I'm being fitted for a Brace (sports type)to return back to work , Lots of activity and moving around at work. I will be 16 weeks post surgery when I return with the brace. Does anyone have experience with this and did they hate the thought of wearing one as much as I do. Other then time going slow I'm doing great and getting ready for skiing in Dec .

Brenda
July 1, 2007 9:33 PM

Hi everyone. I am now 12 days post-op and doing pretty well. I am having more pain and swelling than previously but I think it is because of my increased activity. My flexion is 120 degrees with pain. Kyle, Did you have any of your minuscus removed or repaired? Mine was removed but I was told a repair would of had me on crutches for 3 weeks. Also, I've been told most bleeding and pain is from the miniscus. I used a walker instead of crutches but I was able to go without it within the first week. I did and still do feel a little wobbly when I walk without my brace. If I walk for long periods of time, ie: the mall, I have considerable pain and need to rest. Talk to everyone soon. :-)

Sue
July 2, 2007 10:20 AM

I am having ACL reconstruction with hamstring graft in one week. Due to a blood disorder, I have been advised to not have the femoral pain block...has anyone had the ACL surgery with only general anesthesia? And how were your pain levels after surgery, week after, etc. thanks

jamie
July 2, 2007 12:51 PM

im nearly 6 months through after the op i can sit on my heels and straighten the leg ,but still run with a limp i think its in my mind ,a bit of clicking pain and tightness behind the knee hopefully will go in time,feels alot stronger let me know how you are getting on or have got on at cody10owen@yahoo.co.uk

Kevin
July 2, 2007 2:29 PM

I am 7mos post op. My knee is pretty much where it was before I hurt it. I wear a Don Joy knee brace for softball and other sporting ventures. All I can say is if you have this injury it's not the end of sports. I am a little slower, but I will get that back by next year. I Hope! Just an FYI, I'm 33 and recovered quickly. FOLLOW THE REHAB. It works.

alex green
July 2, 2007 9:18 PM

just wanted to say thanks to everyone who posts on this site, because it has been extremely helpful for me. i tore my acl wakeboarding on june 2...i have surgery scheduled for thursday july 5. after much deliberation, i chose to go with the allograft. i was curious about how many days a week you were required to attend physical therapy after this surgery?

Thabid
July 5, 2007 2:06 PM

I am considering having the surgery at end of this month in an attempt to get my knee back to the way it was but dont know what to expect and i have to admit that some of the testimonials are pretty scary. I'm curios as to what amount me pain i'll have after, and for how long i'll have it. Also how long before i can walk again after the op. And lastly does anyone regret having had it done?

Thabid
July 5, 2007 2:07 PM

I am considering having the surgery at end of this month in an attempt to get my knee back to the way it was but dont know what to expect and i have to admit that some of the testimonials are pretty scary. I'm curios as to what amount me pain i'll have after, and for how long i'll have it. Also how long before i can walk again after the op. And lastly does anyone regret having had it done?

A Mom
July 5, 2007 8:19 PM

My 16 year old son suffered his his injury 4 weeks ago at FB camp ... he had surgery just one week ago and so far is adjusting to rehab and recovery with a postive outlook and plans to return to sports. Thank you for your website. They used his hamstring to replace the ACL ... just wandering if he can overdo his exercises to try to get back too quick. He is a very active athlete and at this point feels like he is slacking off from keeping in shape ... he has NEVER been this inactive in his life. Any suggestions.

Gloria
July 5, 2007 9:44 PM

I had my ACL reconstruction last year and was able to return to the ski slopes this year for the first time. Although my insurance wasn't great I was able to purchase both a cold therapy unit and an ACL knee brace that I feel really helped my knee recover fully from this procedure and get me to the point where I could return to the ski slopes without any worries. I looked into all the different one's out there and purchased the new Innovation Sports CTi knee brace at www.dme-direct.com which works just as good as the custom CTi2. I will be skiing again this year and thanking my lucky stars that I was able to get these two pieces of quality equipment that really helped my recover so that I could return to skiing again.

alex green
July 5, 2007 10:59 PM

hey guys! i had my acl surgery at 145pm today and evertything was way smooth. i used a cadaver patella tendon graft and he also had to repair a torn meniscus that i didn't know was torn. my acl was ripped completely off the femur. i am now in bed at home on a motion machine and polar cirrculation ice machine. i have very little pain at all and the effects of the anestesia wore off a couple hours ago. although the surgery was a little scary, i highly reccomend it as it doesn't hurt very much more than before the surgery and i am only taking a half of a vicodin at a time instead of 1-2...sleeping's not gonna be a problem so that's what i;m gonna do now... if you want to ask me any questions, feel free to email me at agreno511@yahoo.com and if you are apprehensive about this surgery at all, don't be,,,i promise it's not bad at all.

alex green
July 5, 2007 10:59 PM

hey guys! i had my acl surgery at 145pm today and evertything was way smooth. i used a cadaver patella tendon graft and he also had to repair a torn meniscus that i didn't know was torn. my acl was ripped completely off the femur. i am now in bed at home on a motion machine and polar cirrculation ice machine. i have very little pain at all and the effects of the anestesia wore off a couple hours ago. although the surgery was a little scary, i highly reccomend it as it doesn't hurt very much more than before the surgery and i am only taking a half of a vicodin at a time instead of 1-2...sleeping's not gonna be a problem so that's what i;m gonna do now... if you want to ask me any questions, feel free to email me at agreno511@yahoo.com and if you are apprehensive about this surgery at all, don't be,,,i promise it's not bad at all.

Nick Quintero
July 7, 2007 9:55 PM

I am also going to have my ACL reconstructed and a meniscus repaired, since it seems to be torn.. I havent had my surgery scheduled yet since Ill be seeing my doctor on July 16th (he will be checking my recent MRI and schedule the surgery) Im a really active guy and Im going off to college this fall, is it possible for me to be able to do running or some kind of cardiovascular activity by September? and approx. how much longer do I have to wait for surgery? and thanks for the article

Lindsey
July 9, 2007 8:48 AM

Hi everyone!! I am 17 years old post ACL reconstruction on 11/20/06. I am doing a research project so I can try and get a scholarship for college and I am wondering if any of you out there could answer the questions below and email me the responses to dlabsmith@aol.com. You don't have to include your name. Any help at all would be greatly appreciated-thank you sooo much!!!! Gender: Female or Male Age:_____ Did you strengthen your surgical leg before surgery? Yes or No If you answered yes to the above question, briefly describe what you did to strengthen your leg? ___________________________ ___________________________________ Did you wear a brace after surgery? Yes or No Surgical Graft: Patellar Tendon, Hamstring or Cadaver Ask your physical therapist for the following information: Your range of motion one week after surgery: ____________ Your range of motion two weeks after surgery: ____________ Three weeks after? ___________ Four weeks after? ____________ Five weeks after? ____________ Six weeks after? ____________ Seven weeks after? __________ Eight weeks after? ___________ When did you reach your full range of motion? __________________________________ **Your information will be used for research purposes only**

Samantha
July 15, 2007 8:57 AM

Hey Everyone~ I am getting my ACL op this Tuesday!!! I am sooooo nervous and scared!!! Whats some things that will happend to me the day after the surgery? Will they make me take my underwear off? Email me please sizzlingsam707@aol.com

TJ
July 18, 2007 10:57 AM

hey samantha, you'll be fine. they shouldn't make you take your underwear off however they gave me a supsitory. the day after you should be fine. you won't be moving much though. i was on medication for 2 days then didn't need it anymore. I have a question. i'm 3 months post op now and have started to get some bad pains on the outside behind part of the knee and just under the knee cap inbetween the scar. the graph is fine i know that cause my physio guy tested it. has anyone else had this problem and if so what should i do. Thanks

Samantha
July 23, 2007 12:01 PM

Got my OP done almost a week ago and doing pretty good! Some advice for ppl who is going to get here Op done soon, TAKE ALL PAIN MED! lol

Liz K
July 24, 2007 2:01 PM

Reading people's comments about going back to work around three days really surprises me. I was in the most pain I have ever been in my life. I could not get up by myself for a week. I was devoted to physical and water therapy for three months...then I had a long vacation. It has been four and a half months since my surgery and my leg is still not 100% straight. Can anyone tell me if that is all right or I seriously need to be commited to thearpy?

Darin Lee Clements
July 25, 2007 3:54 PM

I tore my ACL on Jan. 8, 2007 and had my surgery on Feb. 9, 2007. I was off my feet in a locked hip-to-ankle brace for 10 days. A slight rewind, 3 months prior to my ACL tear I tore my PCL, which may explain what I'm about to tell you. My recovery thus far has been agonizingly slow. I've done every stretch, exercise and home therapy my PT has given me and my knee and leg still aren't right, some 6-7 months later. I've had a second MRI to inspect for other issues but the second opinion Dr. said all looks well. Don't assume because everyone else went back to work in a month that you will. If you have questions DO NOT hesitate to tell you Dr. Remember, he works for YOU.

Dawn
July 29, 2007 9:01 AM

I had my ACL reconstruction 3 weeks ago, using a cadaver transplant. My PT does not want me to use the brace or crutches, rather build up that muscle again! the inner strength this requires is amazing..... you can not give up. My leg is straight and can bend independently 100 degrees. I know it is a long road to running again, but these websites give you strength. Seriously, no one can relate to this no matter how much they love you! You have to go through it to know it! Well, back to quad sets.

TJ
July 29, 2007 12:18 PM

hi everyone. i was wondering when people were able to run without pain or a limp. i am just over 3 months post op and still have pain in the knee when i try to run also i run with a limp. just wondering if i'm hoping for to much to soon

Mark Staples
July 31, 2007 1:50 PM

Going in for my ACL surgery tomorrow morning. I've gone through surguries and rehab on my ankles but so far nothing compares with my ACL injury. I tore mine playing city-league basketball but didn't really do anything...it just popped! (Donovan McNabb style) Not looking forward to the pain but it's good to see the goal in front of me (however difficult) so that I can go for it! I'll see you on the other side...of surgery.

Matthew
July 31, 2007 11:15 PM

hi everyone, this is quite a story, i just had a knee reconstruction surgery in december. I originally got it playing football, and like you said all it was, was just a twist the wrong way. Well the original report was that i tore my A.C.L completly and my maniscuse and my lateral manicuse. It is now been 7 months after surgery and i am able to play basketball, run with my dog and do some more normal activites.

Sam
August 2, 2007 11:01 AM

Hi Everyone! 2 weeks after my OP and doing good! Im about to walk without crutches very soon! I can feel it! Just wondering if there could be any hope for starting basketball earlier then 6 months! email me please- sizzlingsam707@aol.com Thanks! Sam

Anthony Hodge
August 4, 2007 10:47 AM

Hi there - great to hear about others experiences. I'm on day 10 after my surgery. I am hoping to get my doctor to let me go with a smaller brace that can bend when needed soon. This ankle to mid-thigh brace causes me more pain than all my PT excercises. I was wondering if anyone has progressed using excecises in the water, like a pool. I very much miss swimming. Thanks, Anthony

Linda
August 6, 2007 2:27 AM

On May 29 I had ACL major operation on my left knee. Its nearly 2 months - 9 days completed. I can walk but there is seveare pain. I take pain killers. I am just wondering is this pain normal, when I do my abdoman excercise lying on the bed with 2 KG weight still I am unable to bend my knee more then 95 degree. How long will it take to bend it the full 135 degree?

darren bicknell
August 12, 2007 4:25 AM

been a week since my acl reconstruction and am walking without crutches, no knee brace or anything. been advised by my surgeon, (tim spalding ) to get the knee moving straight away, there is hardly any pain. Check out his web site, its fabulous. www.timspalding.com/paitent.html Swelling as reduced thanks to cryo cuff, light training now on rower with no weights and cross trainer. get that knee moving guys as soon as possible

rosemarie banks
August 17, 2007 10:07 AM

i just had my right acl fixed about 4 weeks ago.. i am only 16 the problem was that i already turn my acl in my left knee.. so i had to be careful when i had surgery. now i am out for volleyball but hope to be back for basketball or softball season. i ware a donjoy brace on my left knee because i haven't had surgery yet. i am going to wait until after college.

c brown
August 19, 2007 10:34 PM

my 14, almost 15 year old daughter tore her ACL April 2006, had surgery (hamstring graft) May 2006. She is a competitive soccer player and has returned to full activity and has been since Feb 2007. But then she sprained her MCL and was out for 12 more weeks. She played in her first tournament this weekend and did awesome. Scored a goal with her ACL leg too. Anyway, now she's experiencing swelling at the incision site. Just want to know if anyone else has experienced this. She's sore but other than that is walking just fine aside from that swelling at the site. Please help! I'm contacting our surgeon tomorrow but I need to sleep tonight. I'm thinking it's scar tissue but taking her in to make sure. Thanks!

Jerry Nolasco
August 22, 2007 1:01 AM

On August 9th 2007 i had reconstructive ACL surgery on my left knee due to an ijury that i got while playing indoor soccer. its been about a week and a half and i been able to put full weight and actually walk perfectly fine with no pain. The best recomendations i have for people who get surgery on their knee is to ice it every day and if your doctor provided you with a cpm machine use it everyday and you will find youself up and walking in no time. As for pain make sure that you take your medication as instructed and try to not use the pain killers as much as you will find out with out pain you dont have no gain let your body adapt to you healing process as it would help you recoporate a lot faster. My injury consisted of an acl complete tear and a miniscus tear where the minuscus was not allowing me to straighten up me leg know after the surgery i am able to straighten up my knee with no pain. As for my PT i am doing great just make sure that you do what is instructed to you and you will be recovered in no time. thanks Jerry

Kathy
August 23, 2007 9:37 AM

I had ACL reconstructive surgery using a hamstring graft 1 week ago today. My leg is very sore. Most of the pain seems to be on the side of my shin, no where near the incisions. Also when I stand up a burning pain goes down my leg, this doesn't happen when I sit. Any thoughts.

julio
August 31, 2007 9:21 AM

hello everyone i had my i am a 34 year old weekedn warrior soccer fan and for years i played with my acl torn and mesiscus torn completly always in pain, until i realized all this injuries can lead to arthitis when i get older,so i went to see a very good doctor and advise me to do a allegraft instead of the acl contruction,i did the surgery on 3-7-2006 and its been a roller coaster i took me 6 months to fully recover and get fully range motion on my knee i think i can bend it 145 degrees in the last 6 months i took yoga classes and it has help me a lot my knee feels 100% this year i quit working and went back to school (college) i enrolled in a soccer class to my surprise in can run faster and jump higher beacause of the exercies ive done the team coach ask me to play in the team imagine!!i am looking forward to htis season and looking forward to score alot of goals so please get yout knee fix and do your exercises trust me if it work for me itll work for you good luck everyone!!!

julio
August 31, 2007 9:21 AM

hello everyone i had my i am a 34 year old weekedn warrior soccer fan and for years i played with my acl torn and mesiscus torn completly always in pain, until i realized all this injuries can lead to arthitis when i get older,so i went to see a very good doctor and advise me to do a allegraft instead of the acl contruction,i did the surgery on 3-7-2006 and its been a roller coaster i took me 6 months to fully recover and get fully range motion on my knee i think i can bend it 145 degrees in the last 6 months i took yoga classes and it has help me a lot my knee feels 100% this year i quit working and went back to school (college) i enrolled in a soccer class to my surprise in can run faster and jump higher beacause of the exercies ive done the team coach ask me to play in the team imagine!!i am looking forward to htis season and looking forward to score alot of goals so please get yout knee fix and do your exercises trust me if it work for me itll work for you good luck everyone!!!

julio
August 31, 2007 9:21 AM

hello everyone i had my i am a 34 year old weekedn warrior soccer fan and for years i played with my acl torn and mesiscus torn completly always in pain, until i realized all this injuries can lead to arthitis when i get older,so i went to see a very good doctor and advise me to do a allegraft instead of the acl contruction,i did the surgery on 3-7-2006 and its been a roller coaster i took me 6 months to fully recover and get fully range motion on my knee i think i can bend it 145 degrees in the last 6 months i took yoga classes and it has help me a lot my knee feels 100% this year i quit working and went back to school (college) i enrolled in a soccer class to my surprise in can run faster and jump higher beacause of the exercies ive done the team coach ask me to play in the team imagine!!i am looking forward to htis season and looking forward to score alot of goals so please get yout knee fix and do your exercises trust me if it work for me itll work for you good luck everyone!!!

julio
August 31, 2007 9:21 AM

hello everyone i had my i am a 34 year old weekedn warrior soccer fan and for years i played with my acl torn and mesiscus torn completly always in pain, until i realized all this injuries can lead to arthitis when i get older,so i went to see a very good doctor and advise me to do a allegraft instead of the acl contruction,i did the surgery on 3-7-2006 and its been a roller coaster i took me 6 months to fully recover and get fully range motion on my knee i think i can bend it 145 degrees in the last 6 months i took yoga classes and it has help me a lot my knee feels 100% this year i quit working and went back to school (college) i enrolled in a soccer class to my surprise in can run faster and jump higher beacause of the exercies ive done the team coach ask me to play in the team imagine!!i am looking forward to htis season and looking forward to score alot of goals so please get yout knee fix and do your exercises trust me if it work for me itll work for you good luck everyone!!!

Nicole
September 1, 2007 2:00 PM

Hi, i am a fourteen year old girl and i had an ACL reconctruction 4 months ago and i am playing soccer now. I had to go to physical therapy three times a week for four months and that helped alot. I was originally told that i did not have to wear a brace but now my doctor wants me too cause many girls are getting hurt in soccer. And i am feeling great when i play with and without the brace. there is of course a good amount of swelling but when i am done pratice for the day i go home and ice it. I am so happy that i had the surgery and that it is done and over with. I am not back to my full potential yet but i am glad to be playing. And even though i am back to soccer i still have to gain alot of muscle back that i lost. So mainly it is very possible to get back to high competitive sports after ACL reconstruction in very little time.

Debbie
September 3, 2007 8:54 AM

Hi, I tore my ACL completely in April. I did it at a Tae Kwon Do practice, and I've had the reconstruction surgery. They used a part of the front of my knee to replace the torn ACL. It has now been nearly six months and my Quad muscle is still recovering, but the prospect of this nearly 40 year old leg is looking good. The Surgery wasn't as bad as the doctor told me it would be, and I was in more pain when they did the exam to tell me I tore my ACL. I was given a leg bending machine and told to do all the PT exersizes the day after surgery, and I did. I'm much better now, but when the weather changes look out, that stinks! What I was wondering though is how long it will be before I can go back to Skating and sports. The Doctor told me 2 years, but I'm working out and Swiming like nuts trying to get back to where I was when I hurt the Knee. Also, when does the limping stop and how long it takes before you feel like you didn't hurt the knee at all again?

Ruth
September 5, 2007 10:57 AM

My daughter tore her ACL in October 2006 and was back playing high school sports (basketball, soccer) in 3 1/2 months. Although she was back playing sports, she was not back at the same level as she was before the injury. Still, she had a good senior soccer season with 9 goals and 8 assists. Before the injury, she had committed to play soccer in college at a D1 school. She officially signed after her ACL, and the coach was supportive of her efforts to rehabilitate. We were not anticipating any problems in college, but now she has been told that she is not completely recovered from her ACL and is not playing. She says her knee is not bothering her, and is determined to work hard and earn some playing time. She has never been in this position before . . . she got significant playing time on every sport she tried in high school. But she is handling this challenge (of not playing) pretty well with a good attitude and hard work. Still, I worry that this coach may have written her off because of her ACL. I am looking for input from college soccer players out there who may have experienced something similar. Any words of wisdom or advice?

Waliette
September 29, 2007 10:11 AM

I tore my ACL on Aug 4, 2007 and had surgery on Sep 10, 2007. I am going to therapy now and I go 3xs a week and I am still walking on crutches. I started therapy on Sep 14, 2007. I am very discourged about walking the same and normal again. My therapist is teaching me to walk on it now applying weight and its scary because of the pain I am afraid to experience stepping down on it. I want to know how long did it take any of you that had this surgery to walk again without crutches and do normal things such as, exercise, walk, run, and interact in any sports. Please email me at my address site, I will be more than glad to talk to somone who has already experienced this. Thank You

Scott
October 3, 2007 8:05 PM

Its been nearly a year now since my ACL recon. november 28th will mark my one year, and believe me when I say threapy sucked horribly but the pain is only a temperoary thing. The knee thats been reconstructed can and will be as strong as the other one if you put 100% effort and work into it. Im living proof of such as so many others, I went day by day wanting to give up thinking my knee will never be the same, will I ever walk again? Is this really all worth it? Not even a year later and I stepped into the gym for the first time focusing on working on my legs, I leg pressed for the first time since I originaly got hurt an amazing 1025 pounds that weight with a solid set of 10. Threapy, surgery, pain is all worth it push yourself for that goal of walking again without crutches, then the sky is the limit, and remember pain is weakness leaving the body.

michael sweatmore
October 4, 2007 11:07 AM

hi, im a fourteen year old boy and i had my acl reconstructed on the 17th of september 2007. i am still recovering from bruising and swelling and i have started to do physiotherapy 3 times a week. iam finding it hard work with the amount of hard work and effort needed to overcome tis major operation. i have been told after 12 months i can return to playing sport after a long programme of walking, running and building up muscle. i just need help on how to overcome the amount of pain injured after every session of physiotherapy.

mike
October 8, 2007 10:48 AM

I had my acl replaced (cadaver) in december 05. I am now playing soccer twice a week. I have recovered about 85 % of the strength. My knee still hurts every day. My quad is still 15% less than the other knee. I see some progress, I don't know if I am better than before the surgery. I know I am 40 pounds heavier. I notice that the more I play, the better it gets. Good luck to you all

Samantha
October 9, 2007 1:57 PM

Hello There! I'm about 3 months recovery! Everything is going well! A word of advise to some of you who just got surgery... Do everything the Trainer tells you at Physical Therapy or you can end up with tendentious like I did.

Samantha
October 9, 2007 1:57 PM

Hello There! I'm about 3 months recovery! Everything is going well! A word of advise to some of you who just got surgery... Do everything the Trainer tells you at Physical Therapy or you can end up with tendentious like I did.

Mike
October 9, 2007 4:57 PM

I will be getting acl repair (hamstring) 10/10/07. I cannot wait so that I can quickly return to my active style of life. For anyone in the future.....PROTECT THOSE KNEES!!!

Lexy
October 12, 2007 12:40 PM

hi Iam 11 years old and I tore my ACL on Sept 25. playing football. I haven't had any surgery yet but I know that it is coming and I am so scared. Everything is going to messed up now,I was suppose to try out for the Middle School Cheerleading this year and I have worked so hard for it. NO CROSS COUNTRY! is there any chance of real life anymore? I can't stand this I want to get better fast....any advice will be helpful....

Ric
October 12, 2007 4:21 PM

I'm in pain. ACL surgery last week.

Jon McWatters
October 14, 2007 6:00 AM

Can someone help me locate some information on perpetual motion pedal machines (if they exist) for MS rehab for the legs? I have a friend who requires physiotherapy for her legs since she lost the use of them after giving birth. No one knows why. Any information on this subject and machines that would be useful to help her hopefully regain the use of her legs would be very helpful. Thank you.

stephi
October 30, 2007 9:40 AM

Ric October 12, 2007 4:21 PM I’m in pain. ACL surgery last week. To Ric: I had my surgery on the 10th of October. Hamstring graft. I would like to compare notes? How are you doing now?

stephi
October 30, 2007 9:45 AM

My acl recon was October 10th. I stayed awake, had a spinal. Hamstring graft. Was off crutches after about 5 days. I went to PT the day after surgery, and was out and about the day of and each day after. I think keeping busy helped, as well as a great ice pack I found that velcros right around the leg. I am now almost at three weeks, and and cleared to ride bike, and start with light weights on the hamstring. This all went much better than I thought it would.

stephi
October 30, 2007 9:48 AM

My acl recon was October 10th. I stayed awake, had a spinal. Hamstring graft. Was off crutches after about 5 days. I went to PT the day after surgery, and was out and about the day of and each day after. I think keeping busy helped, as well as a great ice pack I found that velcros right around the leg. I am now almost at three weeks, and and cleared to ride bike, and start with light weights on the hamstring. This all went much better than I thought it would.

Trennis Phillips
November 1, 2007 3:49 PM

what is going everyone This my second acl surgery in two years. Amazing I'm only 16 years old. This time around I'm healing faster because I Knew what to expect. Even these setbacks take time, I not going to give up playing sports

Joslyn
November 2, 2007 5:27 PM

My surgery is november 7th...I'm nervous. It was first partially torn way back when I had minor knee pain. I tore the whole thing while playing soccer (what a surprise, huh?) I am so afraid to get out of shape... I ran track, too. Does anyone know if I'll be able to run just as good as I did before? Or play soccer for that matter? I'm a 16 year old girl, barely 5 feet. What exercises can I do to prevent gaining weight? Please&Thank you

marybeth
November 4, 2007 8:07 AM

Hi! I am so glad I stumbled upon this website! I had my left ACL replaced this past tues. using a patella allograph. It was outpatient and I was home early afternoon. I was under general anesthesia, anti nauseau meds etc. but the pain meds made me sick. The best advise I have so far is to definitely take the pain meds scheduled... Don't get "behind" the pain. I took oxicodone and tylenol every 3 hours for the 1st 24 hours. On day 2 I went about every 4-5 hours on the oxi .. Its sunday and I have had only 1 oxi in 3 days. Definitely use the ice ice ice! I have a brace which I wore to go to my son's hockey game (first outing) but I have been pretty much home bound. I plan on being out of work for one more week and then depending on where I stand with PT go back to work. I have a desk job but my office is on the 3rd floor of a historic building with NO elevator. Thank god for computers! Good luck to all

Steven
November 11, 2007 4:21 PM

I tore my acl on 11/1/07 playing basketball. All swelling is almost gone and I have most of my motion back. Now I am looking at surgery the week after Thanksgiving. Reading the post have helped. I am just ready to get it over with.

sarah
November 14, 2007 2:08 PM

you all must be superhuman. I tore my left knee acl on 09/26/07, playing indoor soccer. (i was playing on 4 different soccer teams - 2 indoor & 2 outdoor) i had left knee acl reconstruction (patella graft) on 10/09/07. i was in pain for NINE days. I am at 5 weeks and just now able to ride a stationary bike the correct way. My recovery gets better every week but it is SOOOO SLOW. I want it faster.

Austin
November 15, 2007 7:02 PM

Hello All, I am 14 and Im getting surgery November 11th to repair my ACL it is getting replaced with part of my hamstring tendon. I play football, basketball, baseball, and track. I am praying I can return for track this year but am not sure if it is possible. I would greatly like advice and info from anyone who is actively involved in sports and can give me recovery info IM or E-Mail me Greenjeff10@aol.com THANKS

jennifer
November 18, 2007 6:15 AM

hello all, my husband is having an acl with allograft on November 21. i think he is a little nervous. he tore it playing basketball. I work as a surgical nurse, but I don't get to see anything past the stitching of the wound. the recovery periods are a mystery to me. thank all of you for sharing your information.

Dustin
November 18, 2007 4:55 PM

My name is Dustin and this sucks! I might have torn my ACL playing in the first game of the playoffs for highschool football. My MRI is scheduled for tommorow. I can't walk, ride my four wheeler, or snowboard with my hot girfriend. Help i'm going crazy!

Nikki
November 20, 2007 1:16 PM

I am a 31-year old mother of two girls and I work in an office that is very accommodating to this ACL injury. I tore my ACL and it broke! I put on a party for my 3 year old at one of those inflatable jumping places and let’s just say I jumped a little too much! I am going to have surgery on Nov 30th, and I don’t know what to expect. I guess I will just have to wait and see. I do stretches at night with my hubby and I get around on crutches and a knee brace, but I don't have much pain at all, at least that yet. Please pray for me! Thanks!

R. Scott
November 21, 2007 7:24 PM

Hello all, I had my acl on my right knee on 20 November 2007 and I am able to bend my knee the full 90 degrees. I had the same surgery on my left knee in 1988, both from football injuries, the outpatient deal is fabulous and treading water and flutter kicks helped me in 1988 and I never used crutches for more than a week. knowing everyone's different,,,the water exercise is the best to use after you're cleared to began working out. I have never had problems with my left knee and with this workout regemine, I do not expect to have any complications with my right knee. I served on ships in the Navy for 18 years after my surgery in 1988 and the climbing of stairs is hard on knees and joints but I set the tone for a strong knee by going to the swimming pool everyday for a year.

nicole
November 22, 2007 11:10 AM

On my way to the park for a run....a taxi hit me and the mri results showed torn acl, mcl, meniscus and fractured tibia....that was july 08, 2007... worked hard in physio and mostly on my own and healed really well...however, could not run without my knee feeling unstable or like i am causing more damage...decided to do the acl patello-tendon reconstruction to get my active lifestyle back....the stationary bike and elliptical machine were boring me to tears....scheduled for surgery on dec 4th 2007....nervous before the surgery but with everything i've read on this site, it sounds like that range of motion machine is key....good luck everyone .....will keep you posted

Megan
November 23, 2007 3:24 AM

Hey all, I tore my ACL over the summer and am having a fairly easy recovery with relatively no pain from about two and half months on. I had a fantastic doctor who performed the operation and was in great shape considering I played soccer on the bad knee for nearly a month after it was torn because I had no idea that it was torn aside from the occasional times when it would give out (it was a complete tear so the nerve endings were gone and I couldn't feel it). Physical therapy is definitely the way to go, but if you don't do your exercises than it's not worth the money. It has helped me a lot and despite the work outs being light for the first few weeks, you can definitely stay in shape by doing them and at 4 months post-op. I'm already in better shape than a majority of the people on my soccer team. Not sure if he will see this, but to Austin; I think that if your surgery was performed by a good doctor and you were in good shape when you had it than you should be fine. By four months I've been cleared to sprint and start playing some soccer again by my doctor- though my physical therapist is holding back a bit. Depending on what events you run, I'm sure you'll be nearly there at five months (in April). This depends on how hard you work though, and how good your bend is. If you're doing distance than I have absolutely no doubt that you'll be fine, but you might lag a little in sprinting, especially the 100 and 200 if your full recovery time is slow than six months.

Jonny Brett
November 26, 2007 5:26 AM

I am nearly 5 weeks out from my ACL surgery using hamstring graft. I am only able to get my leg bent to about 100 degrees max and don't seem to be making any progress. Anyone have any insight on this. How long did any of you take to get your knee bent all the way. Mine is VERY tight. Jonny

Marti
November 27, 2007 12:22 PM

Hi everyone....I had my acl surgery (allograft) Nov.9. I was expecting the worse and to be honest, it wasn't as bad as the original injury. I took one week off of work (desk job....but I'm up and down all day). It only really hurts now when I over do it (on my feet too long) or if I move it weird. P.T. started today and he said I was doing great for only being 2.5 wks after surgery. It still feels very tight and it doesn't want to bend unless I make it (and you have to....although sometimes I just can't bring myself to do it). Thanks for letting me share my story and good luck to everyone.

wendy
November 27, 2007 1:12 PM

Hi my 7year old son fell off his bike and tore his acl completely away from the bone and has a bone fragment attached, we were told today that he would need surgery, I am curious to know if it is outpatient?

wendy
November 27, 2007 1:12 PM

Hi my 7year old son fell off his bike and tore his acl completely away from the bone and has a bone fragment attached, we were told today that he would need surgery, I am curious to know if it is outpatient?

Donna
November 30, 2007 10:25 AM

Hi! I am 44 and had my acl surgery 2 weeks ago. I had the pattella graph. I was done as an out patient and was out and home within 3 hours. I did not use crutches at all. I had the brace, ace and ice for a week. In that time I was able to go up and down stairs one step at a time of course. The shower was a little tricky since we have a claw foot tube. My husband cling wrapped it dry and added a plastic bag to make sure the stitches kept dry. Of course thank goodness I married a strong man that could lift me into the tub. However, after the first week I found if I put a chair next to the tub and swang my leg over I could shower by myself. I started therapy last week and this week I actually rode a bike. I didn't think it would happen but with stretching it out before I managed to do it. I still have swelling of the knee and my foot and ankle are pretty bruised. (They say it was from the way the ace was on the brace it caused the ankle and foot) Hey it's only been two weeks to the day. I actually made cookies two days ago and dinner yesterday. I still take some pain meds and ice but hopefully soon I can put one foot in front of the other and walk out the door ....

Ashley
December 4, 2007 6:44 PM

So...I completely tore my left ACL in the middle of September. My surgery is Dec. 19th. I will have to stay over night and be in bed for a few days. When I first got hurt it took the Navy 5 weeks to say it was an ACL tear (from soccer) and I've been doing therapy on it to get my motion back. Mine is a slow process and it's driving me crazy! Wendy-it's usually outpatient but I was told staying the night is mostly just to control the pain better and prevent infection.

Girish Dineshan
December 6, 2007 7:00 PM

Hi All, I tore my ACL playing soccer, and injured it further playing tennis, and now the meniscus is also torn. Walking a mile is very painful, i am not able to jog at all. I am going for surgery on the 13th of Dec 07. I am very nervous about the whole thing. Doing some pre-operative physiotherapy right now. I have a sedantry job, and taking a leave for a long duration duration is difficult. I would like to know when can i resume going to work. The doctor says I would have to take atleast 6 weeks leave. Can you please advice how soon can join work.

Rey
December 7, 2007 12:58 AM

Im trying to get insurance to get my knee surgury because im preety sure i tore my acl, But i wonder if will be able to play football by May 2008, and im also afraid the doctors will tell me me i can never play again.

Donna
December 7, 2007 7:08 AM

It's me again. Well 3 weeks now and still swollen around the knee. I can bend it 99 degrees. At therapy I am riding a bike and making progress. It just seems like it is taking forever. I am still walking with a limp and it is very tight. Hoping to see more improvement in the next week.

Claudia
December 7, 2007 6:51 PM

its been great reading everyones stories.... I am having my acl (with hamstring tendon) done wed, dec 12th. i tore it playing soccer about 2 months ago, guess i need to remember im 35 now!!! i am definitely nervous but ready to feel better and get back to running and soccer. the doc seems to think i will be on crutches for a week, bike by week 2, walking by week 3 and light jogging by week 4!!! i hope his is right, im not concerned with pain but the idea of sitting around for an extended period of time is making this more of a mental challenge then physical. Thanks again for your encouraging stories.

alanna
December 8, 2007 12:26 PM

Im a 15 year old female and completely tore my acl along with my cartilage playing football (soccer) on the 16th september. im still waiting to have the operation (NHS is sooo slow !) and quite nervous about it, but this site helped me know what to expect. thanks again. x

Deb
December 9, 2007 2:19 AM

Hi Ashley! I've been dealing with it off and on since April 06. I too got the run around with the Navy. They kept saying it was a strain or a sprain, putting an ace wrap on it, giving me ibuprofen and sending me on my way. I didn't get an MRI until a year and a half after the initial injury and several subsequent injuries due to instability. Now...finally...I have reconstructive surgery on my left ACL, trimming the meniscus and stitching up the tear in the meniscus. I was told that I would be staying over night for pain control as well and then starting PT the immediately. I am hopeful that I will have a speedy recovery. I have been fortunate in the past to recover fairly quickly. Good luck! P.S. Where's your surgery at?

Deb
December 9, 2007 2:19 AM

Hi Ashley! I've been dealing with it off and on since April 06. I too got the run around with the Navy. They kept saying it was a strain or a sprain, putting an ace wrap on it, giving me ibuprofen and sending me on my way. I didn't get an MRI until a year and a half after the initial injury and several subsequent injuries due to instability. Now...finally...I have reconstructive surgery on my left ACL, trimming the meniscus and stitching up the tear in the meniscus. I was told that I would be staying over night for pain control as well and then starting PT the immediately. I am hopeful that I will have a speedy recovery. I have been fortunate in the past to recover fairly quickly. Good luck! P.S. Where's your surgery at?

Sarah1221
December 11, 2007 11:33 AM

Hi all, I tore my acl on 10/31/07. I quickly rushed to get the surgery on November 7th. I was not able to move around very much for the first few days. I'm in week 4 now and am only able to bend my knee about 60 degrees. I don't know what doctor said that you would be able to jog by week 4 because I sure can't. My qestion to everyone is what is an acceptable timeline for recovery? I'd like to be able to go to full flexibility by week 8.

Khalil Haamid
December 12, 2007 4:10 PM

Hello everybody, My names Khalil, I'm 16. I tore my ACL during football right at the end of the season and it's been months and they just told me I need surgery. I'll be going in Jan. 11th but I'm curious if it will be out patient and they told me that i will be off from sports for 6 months. I don't know if I work hard in physical therapy and at home if the time will decrease and I'll be able to start sprinting for juking for football before the 6 months is up, I don't want to re-injure it so I'm just worried but if anyone has had the same problem could you just clue me in on what it's like...(first surgery and I'm kinda icked about it)

nastazia
December 13, 2007 8:32 AM

hi i am a girl 16 year old girl and i have a knee problem, i ct my acl and miniskus.i am a football player.....i will play again football or its over???

Mike
December 14, 2007 3:36 PM

Hi all-I just had my left ACL replaced 8 days ago. They performed a patella bone-tissue-bone graft. They kept me in hospital for a 2 days, and gave me a self administered morphine drip(oddly enough I felt no pain....). Today was my third physio appointment, and they replaced my crutches with a cane, and I am bending it at 90 degrees. I can walk without the cane, with a serious limp. They say my progress is very good, but I am really anxious to get back to playing sports (rugby and lacrosse). anyone in a similar situation? What is a realistic time frame I can expect? Anyone back to sports? or weight training? Advice?

Kris
December 14, 2007 6:41 PM

Hey everyone! I'm a 17 year old female and just had my acl reconstructed and meniscus trimmed. My acl was completely gone and knee was pretty messed up before surgery because I continued to play volleyball when it was damaged with the help of a brace (wouldn't reccomend that!) But I'm two weeks post surgery and am feeling very good! I can walk completely normal and am able to go up and down stairs. My physical therapist says I'm in great shape and have excellent range of motion for just 2 weeks post. The orthopedist says i won't be back to normal and playing sports for 9 months but I'm just hoping for the best! By the way, is anyone still numb around their knee? I asked my doctor and he said I will be feeling that numbness for about a year..It's the weirdest feeling when you touch one side of your knee yet feel it on the other! haha

Vladimir
December 16, 2007 12:35 AM

i just had my ACL reconstruction last tuesaday. i was home the same evening. I felt a little bit of pain on the first day, however, the following days become much worser. its sunday now (5th day after surgery), and i feel the hell a lot of pain in my knee. When i'm laying down on the bed, its barable, but when i'm trying to get down - its a lot of pain. did anyone else had a similar experince after the surgery?

Donna
December 18, 2007 12:26 PM

Well it's been 4 and a half weeks since my patella graft and still have pain. The swelling is almost gone. I can bend 117 degrees. I finally went up the stairs the normal way yesterday. It actually feels much better after therapy. I did the treadmill yesterday for the first time. I have a lot of numbness still on the side. It is the most strange feeling. Hopefully this will shed some light on what you have to look forward to.

Brock
December 19, 2007 11:02 AM

Hey all, I had surgery Dec. 13 (Thursday) and Friday I will be seeing my doctor for the Post-Op, I'm curious as to what he will say. He is the Ortho for the Dallas Stars, but my concern is being able to play baseball around the end of June early July. (I tore it playing volleyball.) The doc says 6 months, but how long will it be before I start to walk normal without crutches and it being swollen?

Dennis
December 21, 2007 12:47 PM

Hello all I tore my ACL, and incurred a grade 2 MCL tear, and meniscus damage and bone bruises and Bakers cyst - all on my left knee in a bad fall last Aug 07. I finally got my surgery date - Feb 21 - to clean the meniscus and repair the ACL. Went to get a second opinion this week and the surgeon advised not to go for surgery at all - since my knee seemed stronger and has not given way at all since the injury last August. His opinion is that surgery would not be worth the set-back and bother, since his estimate is that my knee has a 95% chance of remaining stable. I am 48 years old but still very fit and active - and want to remain so. I'm in a quandary now. I had thought surgery was the recommended/best option. I definitely don't want to re-dislocate the knee - and 5% still seems like large odds to re-injure my knee. Am interested in any similar accounts or advice, as I am trying to make the best decision now based on all sources. thx - Dennis (dpa@rogers.com)

Bob
December 22, 2007 8:24 AM

Hi all. I just did my ACL surgery on the 13th after blowing it skiing last February. I think I'm doing pretty well. First few days were a bit tough, but thats what drugs are for. Was off of pain meds by day 5. Walking with just one crutch now (day 9) and have 90 deg of flex. Still using the brace. I'm also taking a variety of supplements to make sure I have the right block to build this thing back up. I did the hamstring graft and have been surprised that my hamstring has hurt very little so far. I was expecting a lot of pain back there considering what they did to it. I don't think this is normal though. Dennis - I went for eight months without really noticing that I had a problem and I was quite active. I did consider not fixing it, but in the end I took the plunge mostly to help prevent future damage. According to my PT when your active in sports and have strong legs you can easily hold you knee together while doing most activities. The biggest problem is when something happens that you're not ready for and your muscles are not active, thats when the acl comes in and holds your knee together. I'd be more worried stepping off a curb unexpectedly than doing most sports without an ACL. Good luck everybody!

Juan Carlos Balanta
December 23, 2007 2:19 AM

December 23, 2007 Hi everyone, I just had reconstructive knee surgery done Dec. 20 on my left knee to repair a torn ACL as well as meniscus damage. The surgery lasted about 3 hours and two tendons from my hamstring were used as ligament replacements. I was sent home the same day but since then it has been a roller coaster ride in and out of excruciating pain. I sleep sporadically, usually no more than 3 hours at a time. Comfort has been a big issue since I hardly sleep on my back but is my only choice thus far. Everytime+I+try+to+turn+to+my+side,+pain+engulfs+my+knee.+It+does+not+help+that+I+can't+lift+it+at+all+or+move+it+around+either.+It+is+so+weak+and+the+brace+that's+on+it+feels+like+it+ways+40+pounds.+I+tried+to+get+up+once+with+the+assistance+of+my+fiancee+and+crutches,+but+as+soon+as+I+stood+upright,+all+the+blood+rushed+down+and+it+felt+as+if+my+knee+would+burst.+I+immediately+laid+back+down+again+and+elevated+my+knee+to+alleviate+the+pain.+It+is+4:00+o'clock+in+the+morning+and+I+am+about+to+enter+day+3+of+the+post+surgery+recovery+period.+I+see+the+doctor+on+the+28th+to+remove+the+stitches+and+discuss+physical+therapy+regiment.+I+feel+I+still+have+a+long+way+to+go+before+I+can++even+begin+to+move+with+the+crutches.+I'm+reading+all+these+testimonies+of+people+walking+and+moving+their+knees+after+just+a+couple+of+days+and+I+wonder+if+my+recovery+is+perhaps+moving+too+slow.+Does+anyone+have+any+words+of+encouragement+for+a+third+grade+school+teacher+who+just+wants+to+return+to+work+ASAP?

Juan Carlos Balanta
December 23, 2007 2:20 AM

December 23, 2007 Hi everyone, I just had reconstructive knee surgery done Dec. 20 on my left knee to repair a torn ACL as well as meniscus damage. The surgery lasted about 3 hours and two tendons from my hamstring were used as ligament replacements. I was sent home the same day but since then it has been a roller coaster ride in and out of excruciating pain. I sleep sporadically, usually no more than 3 hours at a time. Comfort has been a big issue since I hardly sleep on my back but is my only choice thus far. Everytime+I+try+to+turn+to+my+side,+pain+engulfs+my+knee.+It+does+not+help+that+I+can't+lift+it+at+all+or+move+it+around+either.+It+is+so+weak+and+the+brace+that's+on+it+feels+like+it+ways+40+pounds.+I+tried+to+get+up+once+with+the+assistance+of+my+fiancee+and+crutches,+but+as+soon+as+I+stood+upright,+all+the+blood+rushed+down+and+it+felt+as+if+my+knee+would+burst.+I+immediately+laid+back+down+again+and+elevated+my+knee+to+alleviate+the+pain.+It+is+4:00+o'clock+in+the+morning+and+I+am+about+to+enter+day+3+of+the+post+surgery+recovery+period.+I+see+the+doctor+on+the+28th+to+remove+the+stitches+and+discuss+physical+therapy+regiment.+I+feel+I+still+have+a+long+way+to+go+before+I+can++even+begin+to+move+with+the+crutches.+I'm+reading+all+these+testimonies+of+people+walking+and+moving+their+knees+after+just+a+couple+of+days+and+I+wonder+if+my+recovery+is+perhaps+moving+too+slow.+Does+anyone+have+any+words+of+encouragement+for+a+third+grade+school+teacher+who+just+wants+to+return+to+work+ASAP?

Mike Marco
December 24, 2007 10:51 AM

I had my ACL on 12.20. Went home the same day. Stopped taking pian killers after two days and started walking around the block withe the cruches. Still feel presure on the knee but not that I could sleep or walk. Doctor said to put as much weight on your knee as you could take. Any comment on this "speady" recovery is greatly appreciated. Regards, Mike

Bob
December 24, 2007 12:05 PM

Mike, I'm hoping for a fast recovery as well, but you have to be very careful. According to my PT the acl graft actually weakens for the first four or so weeks after surgery. So even if you feel like pushing your recovery schedual you must take it easy so that you don't damage the graft until it matures. Good luck on the recovery.

Steven Gove
December 24, 2007 3:52 PM

hi, my name is steven, i also tore my acl and mcl during one of my football games. my first question to the dr was if i wud be able to play sports again. and having surgery on the 17th of Dec i will not be able to finish my highschool sports (im a senior). the dr said it wud take up to 6 months for recovery and will have graduated already. but if ur not graduating take ur physical therapy seriously, and stay with it if u want to play sports again without re injuring it.

Robert
December 24, 2007 4:28 PM

I had surgery done today on my ACL (12-24-07) and it all went good. I had been diagnosed with an acl tear but while the doctor was repairing my acl he also noticed I tore my meniscus too, so while he was in there he fixed that. The surgury took about 2 hours and I was up a couple hours after. I recieved a nerve block medication that was injected into my left leg to block all nerves so I can't feel any of the pain while they were working... It leaves a sort of numb feeling in the leg, which is starting to wear of on me so now im starting to get much of the pain. I was also placed in a brace to keep my leg completely straight. So far everything seems pretty good and I hope to get back walking soon.

John Honyer
December 30, 2007 12:25 AM

I had surgery done on the 20th, 12-20-07, the doctor said it was very successful. my acl was literally gone, but technically it was an acl tear with meniscus damage. ive been walking with crutches for the last ten days, and my straight leg brace comes off on the thirteenth day. i hope i can walk somewhat normally on wednesday.

carlos
January 2, 2008 10:04 AM

Everyone, keep your head up! Everything is going to be alright! As long as you take your physical theraphy seriously, you will be playing in no time. It's been three months since I had my surgery, and I'm already running and trying to get back in shape. In about two months I will be able to get back to paying soccer. The one thing I can tell you is that everyone is different and will approach the theraphy according to what their body allowes them to do. Push yourself and be patient.

nicole
January 3, 2008 7:18 PM

hey my name is nicole and i tore my acl playing soccer. i had rehab for 3 months before i had the surgery. this helped alot. i went home the same day. i walked without crutches on day 3. i had to sleep in and wear a big brace for 3 months. i couldnt run for 6 months.

Bob
January 7, 2008 6:53 PM

Hi everybody. I'm just dropping in to give a four week post-op acl update. I'm feeling quite good actually. Walking almost normally, only using a brace when I'm out doing things, for protection. I have almost full motion back and very little pain to speak of. My suggestions to people hoping for a fast recovery are to do your PT as much as you can. I'm going to PT 2x per week and doing as much as I can on my own 3x per day and its really paying off. Also, get a massage therapist to help with scar tissue. Here's wishing everyone a speedy recovery.

Josh
January 9, 2008 8:40 PM

ive recently tore my ACL and MCL. i go in for surgery sometime next week...how long after surgery will be able to drive a car, and return to work? im a graphic designer so my job in just sitting in front of a computer all day. can someone please give me some ideal so know what to expect for work. Thanks and im really nervous about this surgery.

ming
January 10, 2008 8:50 PM

hey everyone, just to let you know I tore my acl 100% during a karate grading 3 years ago. I hesitated since my knee never gave out at all. I strengthen my leg during that time. I did find that when doing sports my muscles would tire because they were compensating for the lost ligament. The surgeon said that my leg was unstable when he did his test, and that its my muscles keeping everything together. I'm 42, and because I'm not getting any younger to get the surgery done when I'm healthy. Now its been 5 weeks since surgery. I have full extension and flexion up to my butt. I was off crutches in about 5 days. The first few days expect to feel like crap, but then it all gets better. I'm getting stronger everyday and its all worth it. What was really good with my iceman machine that was wrapped around my knee right after surgery. I used it for about 2 weeks to bring down the swelling and pain. I only used pain meds for 1 day. I think that this was key for healing. Its made by donjoy and worth every penny. Next, use a good physio. I went 3x per week for the first 2 weeks, then 2x/week. make sure you do your exercises! now, during 4th week, I went on a cruise with my family. Highly recommended if your doc says its okay. They have state of the art gym that I went to everyday. Used the pool for water therapy daily and swam in the ocean with my brace. Used the stairs everyday, from floor 1 to 14. and your having a lot of fun while rehabing. make sure you ask your doc when its good to go. I even climbed dunn river falls in jamaica, and scuba dived in couzemal. (probably not a good idea though)!! hope these suggestions help. Everyone is different, and we will all get there at different times. good luck, ming any questions, mingyau@sympatico.ca

Konrad
January 11, 2008 6:19 PM

I tore my ACL around eight months ago and had to wait for surgery as I went through the public health system. I worked out at the gym to strengthen my quads prior to the operation for around six months, this was advised by my Physio friend. Five days ago I had the ACL Reconstruction and the day of the surgery after the operation I did not need pain killers to the surprise of the nurses. 1st day after op walked on crutches, 2nd day limping without crutches. 3rd day able to bend knee to 45 degrees and walking quite comfortably. Today can bend past 45degrees and walk comfortably. Ice on and off as much as possible every day, swelling reducing every day. Reading all the other stories my recovery seems to be very quick, all I can put it down to is the pre operation muscle strengthening. I don't have a brace either. I take Glucosamine, Chondroitin and fish oil to aid recovery.

Tony
January 13, 2008 6:30 PM

Hi everyone. I had ACL surgery on Dec 3rd. I tore my acl and meniscus in March of 2005 but decided to finally have the surgery. Tomorrow will be 7 weeks and I feel great. I almost don't have any pain at all. I can jog now with almost no pain. I continue to go to PT twice a week and can do all the excercises with relatively no pain. I am ready to get back to tennis now!!, but the PT says not to. How much longer??

Taylor
January 15, 2008 12:09 AM

i tore my first acl in march or 04..and i got surgery and was released to play in 2 months and two weeks., with no brace!! my doctor was the best doctor ever!!...and then again in 06 i tore my other acl..girls are more prone to tear the second after they first is tore within a couple years. I got surgery and was released in 3 months and still goooooooing strong!! No braces!! no problems and no fear!! 6 months is not necessary at all!

Rey
January 17, 2008 2:05 PM

Hey, I tore my right knee ACL and the lateral and menial meniscus playing football and had to get a reconstructive surgery on my knee. I had the surgery done on July 22 2007 and here I am still recovering. Im just wondering how long more should I wait before I can start running. I have gained more than 40 lB since my injury due to lack of any form exercise and moved from 260 lB to 300 lB. What is the best way for me to get in shape? should I do bodybuilding or should I try to lose all the fat I have gained before stating to work out? P.S. since I have done my surgery In Iran (I live in Canada) I don't have any kind of access to my doctor nor the surgeon

Mark
January 17, 2008 7:27 PM

Hey everyone, I tore my ACL 11/5/2007 and had patella graft surgery on 12/26/2007. It's now been three weeks and I'm out of a brace and walking with a limp. My extension is -3 degrees and my flexion is still about 20 degrees away from what it should be. I started on a stationary bike after two weeks and am working on that as much as i can. As far as PT goes my therapist is mostly cranking on my leg to get to full extension, which is pretty painful. We're also working on proper walking techniques and taking forward and side strides. I was on a CPM for the first two weeks and percocet for the first week. The pain was intense, because it was a patella graft. I'm still taking vicodin before I go to sleep but based on the rate the pain is subsiding I presume I won't need it after next week. Good luck everyone, and feel free to contact me if you have any questions about the patella graft as opposed to a hamstring graft which most people above have.

Anna
January 17, 2008 8:08 PM

I tore my acl in my left knee on 11/16/07. I had problems w/ my knee before with it giving out and all but i guess i tore it completely that day. I had surgery this past Friday 01/11/08. They were going to send me home after surgery but they couldnt get me to wake up! I couldnt keep my eyes open long enough to see who all was in the room with me. They kept me overnight and i ended up eating chicken nuggets and fries that night about 10pm (i had my surgery @ around 2pm that day) I was very cranky and very tired. I also had a nerve block. I remember my doctor telling me he was inserting the needle and then i remember people trying to wake me up hours later. My knee didnt hurt much, mostly just felt like dead weight. I met the PT about 9am the next morning and walked around on my crutches and did steps then walked back to my room. I didnt have a morphine tap or anything. They gave me percocet 7.5/325mg it was supposed to be every 4 hours but i asked for some @ 8:30am and didnt get it until 11am. oh well. I went home @ around 11:30am. I went to Walmart 1st thing to get my script filled (rode around in the scooter/wheelchair) by the time i left i was in bad pain (NERVE BLOCK FINALLY WORE OFF) I went home and put my leg up took some more pain meds and drifted off to sleep. that night went okay, i hobbled to the bathroom w/ help and back to bed. I woke up @ 3:30am in the most horrible pain/ i hadnt had my pain meds in about 7 hours and I couldnt stand the pain it was so bad. i took 2 percocets and went back to sleep. since then i have been sleeping in my cpm machine and I am now up to 90degree angle. I'm going to try 100 tonight. Today i went too long w/out pain meds. from 7am to 7pm because they were kind of making me sick to my stomach and i didnt have much of an appetite. I was crying my eyes out. It was the pain and i was/am alone today for the 1st time since surgery and i am sick of not being able to do anything for myself, felt lonely, and my mom thinks that i may have started having withdrawls from not having the pain meds. I couldnt stop crying. Has anyone else felt like that after not having pain meds, or just from being so sick of hurting and being confined to a brace and an ice pack. I go to the doctor for my check of my knee and to get my stitches out, he wants me off work for another 2wks. I am having a hard time when i try to take a step w/out my crutches so I have been trying not to put a lot of weight on my knee until i see the doctor. wow, i have wrote a lot I guess I will leave it at that and comment back after my doc appt tomorrow.

Lucia
January 18, 2008 1:31 PM

Hi Really finding this site helpful. Tore my acl Dec 28th, 2007 playing indoor soccer. PT for 2 weeks and now having my surgery on Jan 23rd 2008. Looking forward to it, but nervous too. This site really helpe alleviate some of my fears!! I am having a donor graft. No brace after surgery. Starting PT 5 days later. Any tips would be appreciated.

E
January 20, 2008 2:46 PM

It will be 2 weeks on Tuesday since my surgery for a complete ACL tear (skiing accident). My doctor decided to go with the cadaver, which I think was a good idea. I started PT with very basic exercises a few days ago. I'm trying to get a sense of when I can get rid of the crutches, I'm partial weight bearing now but my leg is still ridiculously weak and still using the brace-just about at 90 degrees flexion with the CPM. I've mastered the few steps into my apartment building but living in NYC is a nightmare with crutches and I'm a little worried about returning to work on the subway (lots of stairs to cover). I'm just curious as to average time people experience before walking without crutches after this type of surgery. (I was in good shape before the accident, I'm hoping this will assist in the recovery).

Debbie
January 21, 2008 7:37 AM

I am 52 and 2 years ago shredded my ACL while skiing. Have not had many problems with my knee except have not skiied again. This week I am having pain, and loss of control again. Considering surgery. Interested to talk to someone that had this at my age and their experience.

EJ
January 21, 2008 9:26 AM

Just tore my acl a little over a week ago and am being told I'll likely need surgery (meet with the ortho surgeon this week). Still a little weirded out about it all as I'm not athlete (as is evident by my attempt -- and failure -- at skiing). Just wanted to say a quick thanks for all the postings as I now suddenly feel like a member of a club I'd never thought I'd be a member of. But the postings are really helping frame all of this for me so I have an idea of what to expect. Thanks all, and if/when the surgery happens, I'll post my experiences as well.

Rosanne
January 21, 2008 11:14 AM

I had my left ACL & MCL surgery on Jan 2 and feeling great. Can walk with the brace and have started PT. This is my second ACL & MCL surgery. I had my right knee done exactly one year ago to the date and it is doing great. My left seems to be healing better than my right did although Doctor told me he expected a longer recovery as I had knee surgery on that knee 25 years ago. Able to be at 90 degrees and getting better by the day. I started sleeping without the brace and finally got a great nights sleep. Able to stretch leg fully and working on the range of motion. Therapy is the key, I learned that with my first ACL repair. Bend the knee in a much as you can and hold for 10 seconds each time. I know it is painful, but that is how you get your range of motion back. My left knee is amazing, like that of a 20 year old again and I have full range of motion. Looking forward to getting back on the soccer field. !!

Crystal
January 21, 2008 12:56 PM

I had ACL / meniscus surgery Dec 18th with a cadaver ligament & had my menial meniscus stitched. I also had a severe MCL tear, but my surgeon said that would repair on its own. I've had a lot of nerve pain in my entire injured leg, my PT thinks it's from my siatica. I'm having a big problem with getting my leg to bend! I'm only @ 70 degress with much effort & much pain. It feels like there is something in the way that won't let it bend & the pain is very intense in the MCL area when I try to bend my knee. My surgeon didn't give me a CPM machine, should I ask for one now? My knee can go pretty much straight & I'm working on getting hyper-extension. I walk without crutches or brace & can do full weight bearing exercise. I just joined the gym last week & swimming in the heated pool has been great- it feels so good to finally get a good cardio workout.

Debbie
January 21, 2008 6:56 PM

I would love to hear from other 50+ ACL surgery patients. Tore mine 2 years ago while skiing. I am having pain again. Have gained a lot of weight and find that the things I enjoyed are just harder to do so therefore I do not exercise as much. Considering the surgery. Comments appreciated.

laurie
January 22, 2008 10:24 AM

I tore my R ACL 1/3/08 skiing in Whistler, BC. I have been to two MD's. One said that I can weight bear right away, another states I will be on crutches for a month. I am very active, and just confused about which MD has the right info. I also have still been working out daily but MD #2 said I should avoid treadmill, stairs, etc.. I am getting the surgery but still haven't decided on the doctor. Any suggestions... help, I just want to be able to do all the things I have been doing, skiing, biking, hiking, roller blading...thanks.

Lynsey
January 22, 2008 8:05 PM

Hi. I had meniscus repair surgery around Halloween. Unfortunately, the country that I'm living in doesn't really do physical therapy. As a result, I still can't fully straighten my leg and after awhile just walking is painful. Any advice for exercises for my recovery? When can I run and snowboard again since I didn't let my knee heal properly? Thanks for the advice!

John Cleland
January 24, 2008 12:34 AM

hi all i tore my acl playing football on astroturf on the 5oct 07, i had an arthroscopy done on the damaged knee to see the full extent of the damage on the 14 nov and the surgeons assessment was confirmed i needed full acl reconstruction, i had my op a fortnight ago the 10 jan 08, he took a graft from my hamstring and replaced the torn acl i was in hospital overnight,i seen the hospital phsio the next day done the usual walking with crutches and stairs managed ok ,now home and doing excersies they gave me, off my crutches after about a week still do not have much bend in knee and still walking with a limp, was told by surgeon swimming is good (only front crawl no breaststroke) so going to give it a bash and see what happens.

L
January 25, 2008 10:02 AM

I tore my right acl and meniscus last spring and had my surgery on Nov 22, 2007. I have to admit this process is very slow although my surgeon wants me to have 120 degree bend, I will be lucky to give him 95. My PT thinks that they may have to put me under to bend the knee more, has anyone gone through this? I guess I will have an answer when I see my surgeon this Monday. I am wondering if it is the meniscus repair (had it stitched) that is causing the knee not to want to bend?? I do have some promising news, just this past week I successfully made it around the bicycle - was very excited. For those looking for exercises, my pt has me doing lunges, squats, stretches for the hamstring, leg raises, and the bicycle.

DeonDre More
January 25, 2008 9:37 PM

yeah i tore my acl in the both of my knee's in less than 2 months...... now track is in 2 weeks, and i can't play

Bob
January 26, 2008 3:18 PM

I've been reading the stories on this website since I had my ACL surgery in December. I've noticed a lot of people asking how long it will take to recover from the surgery. The answer to this question seems to be hugely variable. Your recovery time will probably be somewhere between 4 and 16 months, and its probably not possible to predict whether yours will be closer to 4 or 16. There also seems to be a lot of variation in options about PT activities and brace use. My Dr. and my PT don't agree on everything either. My Dr. actually warned me about stretching too much and getting too mobile too fast. I have no idea which one is correct. Everyone recovers differently. Good luck.

Tessa Ouellet
January 27, 2008 6:43 PM

Hello. I had my acl surgery on Jan.17/08. Unfortunately, the good Dr. said it wasn't as strong as he wants so I have to be totally off my leg for 3 weeks. Yes I am wearing that famous brace. I ended up with spinal head ache which lasted 8 days. Bad enough that I went to the hospital because I was pucking and sweating from the head aches. I found that the Dr's don't prep enough. I ended up with a blue foot because it's up all the time. Mainly because of the tanser bandage. The Dr did not tell me when I can remove that bandage which is really tight and causing pain and other things. As anyone experienced this. I can't start physio for another 1 1/2 weeks. I feel the loss of mobility and get a lot of cramps in my calfs. Would love to hear from anyone!

NSM
January 29, 2008 3:25 AM

Going in this morning for ACL allograft on left knee. Soccer injury 12 yrs ago. Now want to help my kids learn soccer.....is something wrong with this picture?.... The info is helpful. Thanks.

Steve
January 29, 2008 6:38 AM

I tore my ACL on november 16th 2007 and had surgery on January 22nd 2008. i had surgery at 11:15 in the morning and went home that afternoon in a brace. I used a CPM machine for the first three days and have now stopped using it. I went to PT three days after surgery and now have been twice. It has been one week and i am back to work using one crutch and no pain meds except when i need to do PT. My legs is swelling a lot today so i am looking forward to going home and iceing it down. my goal is to be crutch free by the two week mark.

valerie
January 29, 2008 11:23 AM

I am having ACL surgery tomorrow at 8:00 AM. I'm not too thrilled about the recovery because I just bought an Audi TT & want to drive, drive & drive...oh well, wish me luck...

L
January 29, 2008 4:55 PM

Teresa, Be careful with the calf pain it could be a blood clot. I strongly suggest you go get that checked out. Although I did not have the brace after surgery I was tensored up pretty tight for 5 days and then had the tensor removed by my surgeon (had to be the worst day as the swelling sets in). I started physio 5 days after surgery, best decision I could have made. Unfortunately I ended up back in the hospital with a blood clot, everything worked out okay but clots can be dangerous if not caught quickly. Small update from my last post - I have 4 weeks to show more bend in my knee, if I am not sucessful then I have to go in for a scope to clean up the scare tissue. Here's to doing your excercises!

Eddie
January 30, 2008 9:21 AM

Im 16 and i tore my acl back in Aug. 22, 2007. I had surgery (patella) on Sept. 29, 2007. Its been 4 months and a couple of days and ive been sprinting and feel as if im already as fast as i used to be. I am going to run track and play baseball which starts on Feb 9. My doc was excellent and i am already released for sports. Advice to all.. WORK HARD and do EVERYTHING that the physical therapist tells you to do! It works and helps. They told me i would be off crutches after 5 days of surgery and on the 4th day i was like hell no i wont be able to do this! The 5th day came around and i was walking without them. Work hard and you will be fine.

Holly
January 30, 2008 9:34 AM

I tore my ACL while skiing. My doctor, whom I like and trust, said to wait a month until deciding on surgery. I'll be doing PT to see if the knee gets stronger. While I am ready to give up skiing (I'm 51), I can't give up daily exercise including running, stair master, gym, yoga, mountain biking. From what I've been reading, I should get surgery. Any opinions on this? Also, if I do get surgery, can I ride in a car 4 hours the day after surgery? I live by myself and am not sure I can manage by myself post-surgery. How difficult is it to get around right after surgery (i.e. to the bathroom, getting in bed, bathing, etc.) Thanks. This is a great resource, best I've read so far. Holly

Tessa Ouellet
January 31, 2008 9:34 AM

Thank You (L) for the input. How did you know you had a bloot clot? I saw my surgeon yesterday and I was given the ok to start physio (which I start today). I too started swelling in the knee when the tansor bandage came off. My pain is now in the back of the knee. It only comes when I sit or when I am standing. I will ask the physio therapist where that pain is coming from. I am also having a lot of pain in my ankle just from putting my foot flat on the ground. I guess this is to be expected when you have your foot up for 2 weeks. For Holly, being in a car for 4 hours after surgery. I would recommend you sit in the back with your leg up. For me sitting was excruciating pressure. And I too would have to agree that this site is the best one I've seen. Thank You Adam for putting this together. My ACL injury was a result of dirt bike racing. Go figure, I decided to do this at 33 yr. old. LOL

Mari Huston
January 31, 2008 1:06 PM

I had ACL repair with hamstring tendon on Jan 4th. I am still on crutches but full weight bearing on the leg. My ROM is getting really good and I do physio twice a week. My problem is severe calf pain and sometimes so bad I cannot walk on it. I have had an ultrasound for a blood clot and it was negative. I still have new bruising down the front of my leg and my shin. I also have really strange horrible shin pains. Has anyone experienced this. My Dr. is great and she is happy with my ROM but concerned about the strange pain and is monitoring it closely. I went to Dr. LeBel at the Fowler clinic in London Ont and I would recommend her any day. Very easy to ask questions to and also very caring.

Arai
February 1, 2008 3:53 PM

Hello Holly, my husband had an ACL repair yesterday and it seems to be quite difficult to get through on your own. Other people here might know how it progresses but I highly encourage to get somebody to help you the first few days. As to the trip, again, this is just from what we are seing (I also read online) but the day after seems to be worse than the day of the surgery. He is experiencing pain...4 hours in a car...ouch. What does your doctor say about it?

Donna Barlett
February 3, 2008 11:08 PM

Hi everyone, I tore all ligaments in 1 knee 10 years ago and have had nothing but trouble since. The leg is still quite atrophied. The latest - they want to insert a cadavers tendon to replace the acl to slow down further damage. Has anyone had this done? If so what concerns did you have, and where did you find the best research on this? Thanks everyone for sharing your pain and successes big and small. Donna

gelanna
February 4, 2008 1:02 AM

greetings-i realize that most everyone posting are folks who have had the surgery recently, and while I realize that once you are fully healed and recovered, there is little reason to search these forums...however, perhaps someone is out there who can answer this. 1. How long would it take (assuming i am following through 100% with physical therapy), per say, if i chose a cadaver route, before i could return to martial arts and contact sports/intensive training? 2. To what extent will I be able to engage in martial arts after full recovery? 3. Do most folks recommend autograft or allograft for an acl? Has anyone tried prolotherapy in addition to acl surgery (not immediately of course)? Also, I think that we should all make it a point to check back to one of these sites when we are 2 - 4 years into our recovery and more to answer questions for folks such as ourselves.

Christy
February 4, 2008 6:48 PM

I just recently had surgery on January 25th, they did use part of my hamstring, and at the moment I am icing as well as doing neuromuscular re-education using the electrical stimulation machine. Sound like fun? I was supposed to get parts from a cadaver, but I guess they changed their mind the day of surgery. A surgeon's assistant assured me that rehab would be a lot easier since it was not taken from a cadaver, but I don't know the reasoning behind this. This is my second surgery on the same knee, last one was 12 years ago. Well, needless to say, technology is a lot more advanced than the last surgery so it seems like my knee is regaining strength a lot more quickly than before. Only problem, being 12 years older, the pain is a lot worse than the first time. I am now 29 years old and this has been the most painful week ever...even when I went and saw an hour and a half movie I was in pain. I am still on crutches because I walked into rehab four days after surgery without them and almost got my ass kicked. If you feel like you're able to walk without them, remember the more pressure you put on your knee the longer you knee will probably be swollen. Use the crutches the recommended two to three weeks. My first rehab, I was back playing volleyball in five months, but I'm not sure about this one. I can already bend my knee 120 degrees..thanks to my CPM machine, but I can honestly say I will not be ready for the half marathon in May!! I've been doing ab workouts and one legged jump ropes, but I'll keep everybody updated on when I get back in the FULL swing of things!

David
February 6, 2008 12:51 AM

I tore my acl back in september 2006, i had acl recon back in april 2007 and i'm now 9 months post op. My recovery has been trouble free compared to alot of people. I was walking within 2 weeks and havent really had any setbacks. the only problem i've had is a clicking in my knee that has been there since week 4. when i extend my leg fully and tense my quads for 5-10 seconds and then bend it clicks loud. like i said its always done this and nobody but me seems to be concerned. os descharged me at 3 months and i dont see my physio again till 12. just been given the all clear for full contact (football/soccer) but this clicking does concern me still. anybody else had this clicking? Good luck to you all, everyones road is different.

Ivan Sandoval
February 7, 2008 3:53 PM

I play soccer for the university of akron. I tore my acl march 28th 2007. i couldnt get the surgery until i got back home to chicago due to some insurance issues. I had my surgery on may 18th 2007. I was back playing in late october. So i was back in 4 1/2 months. Its now been 9 months and it feels really good, although i still have some pain.. especially after a hard practice.

K.Davis
February 7, 2008 11:13 PM

i just had hamstring acl recon surgery on feb 6th here in LA. the surgeon does the knees for the LA Kings, so I felt pretty good about it. it has now been 36 hours or so since surgery. Supposedly it went well enough that he did not feel i needed a brace, just the cold sleeve. My problem is this....I am on oxycontin and Lortab. The oxycontin end tomorrow(I have my first rehab scheduled for tomorrow-no idea how that is supposed to work given the pain) The oxy is basically the only way i can get out of bed. The pain is really really sharp. I'm worried.

Emily
February 9, 2008 5:40 PM

Tore my ACL and MCL almost 2.5 weeks ago. I live in Vail, Colorado so this is a very very common injury here (with all the skiing,). My doctors have seen this alot. I'm scheduled for cadaver double bundle surgery in about a week. He recomended to me to get as much strength and flexiblilty back as possible to help make recovery faster (My bad knee is almost as flexible as the other) . Everyone I've talked to who's been through this also says stick to your PT and take care of yourself overall, and it will make a huge difference. I don't know what other people's doctors tell them, but I'm trying to stay optomistic about as fast return to the outdoors as stong as possible. I'm really missing it. Good luck to everyone

L
February 10, 2008 8:42 AM

Status Update: I have two more weeks to improve or I go in for a scope to clean up the scare tissue. My flexibility has improved greatly now if only I could get my extension back - arg this is frustrating. Tessa - my surgeon was very clear about calf pain and it leading to a blood clot so when my leg starting to burn and the pain in my calf intensified I called it in and they sent me to emerg right away. I would at the very least let your physio know the pain you are having and it's location, if they think you may have a clot they wont manipulate your knee too much. They may send you for an ultra sound to rule it out. Pain in the back of the knee - that is from the hamstring graft (or so I was told), I seemed to have a ball at the back of my knee. I have been massaging it with Traumeel (homeopathetic cream with Arnika) and that seems to have helped reduce the swelling and the pain. L

gregt
February 10, 2008 3:17 PM

We'll +5 days and have minimal pain except when I do execises. Using the Game Ready system and all things seem to going well. Moving on crutches is coming naturally. Only problem is climbing into the back bench in my pickup to be shuttled arond.

Deb :0)
February 12, 2008 4:08 AM

I am 7 weeks post-op ACL reconstruct, lateral meniscal removal and medial meniscal repair. My ROM took a jump the past week from 110 to 125 in a few days. I was concerned about only being at this ROM, but the doc said that it is good for where I am at. I was expecting to be off of my crutches and up and going at 2 weeks, but with the meniscal repair, the doc said that I had to be on my crutches for an additional 2 weeks to let it heal. I have never been one for sitting, so this is a mental and physical challenge for me. I have to work nights while I recover, and so it gives me plenty of time to do my HEP. I can feel a difference since gaining more ROM and a little bit of strength each day. Good luck guys!

Deb :0)
February 12, 2008 4:08 AM

I am 7 weeks post-op ACL reconstruct, lateral meniscal removal and medial meniscal repair. My ROM took a jump the past week from 110 to 125 in a few days. I was concerned about only being at this ROM, but the doc said that it is good for where I am at. I was expecting to be off of my crutches and up and going at 2 weeks, but with the meniscal repair, the doc said that I had to be on my crutches for an additional 2 weeks to let it heal. I have never been one for sitting, so this is a mental and physical challenge for me. I have to work nights while I recover, and so it gives me plenty of time to do my HEP. I can feel a difference since gaining more ROM and a little bit of strength each day. Good luck guys!

Holly Marie
February 12, 2008 11:09 AM

Hi Emily, I tore my ACL 3 weeks ago in Keystone. However, I still have swelling and don't have full extension. I finally was able to do 15 minutes on the stationary bike (no resistance) last night. I am doing PT exercises everyday twice a day. I'm just wondering what you may doing that you are getting almost full extension. I'm very discouraged as if this is what it is like post-injury recovery, I can't imagine what post-surgery (surgery not even scheduled yet) recovery will be like and how long that will take. Thanks.

spencer lamb
February 14, 2008 9:08 PM

I had ACL reconstruction back in June 21st 2007 and i have been down the gym for the past 5 months working hard evryday. I have almost all the muscle back that i had before and my knee feels very stable alothough if i do shake my leg my knee still feels like its loose but i have been assurred by my surgeon and physio that it will get better and the clicking will go away? Can anyone shed any light on this please? spencer.

David
February 15, 2008 1:04 AM

Spencer: I had my ACL back in April 2007 and i've just started full contact 5 - aside football. I've recently upgraded my program at the gym and i now have no restrictions on what i do at the gym. Going back to you knee clicking and feeling loose. i've been searching for somebody that is in the same boot as me. My knee was clicking from about 2 weeks post op and still does now. over time it gets less and less. the looseness also gets better as long as you stick to what your physio says you'll be ok. How has the rehab been so far any problems? I'm hoping to play my first full football game in the next few weeks. Good luck to you!

laurie
February 15, 2008 10:57 AM

I tore my ACL almost 2 months ago skiing in Whistler, BC. I have been to two surgeons, one is Physician for Notre Dame Football team. He tells me I won't start PT until about 10-14 days post op. Another surgeon said I would start a couple days after. They both recommend the cadeaver allograft. HELP!! I really am confused. When did most of you start PT? I dont know which surgeon to go with. I have surgery scheduled with ND surgeon but am reconsidering. I just want to get going on rehab and be able to do all my activities as soon as possible, with the least amount of complications. Thanks!!

Arlen Roth
February 15, 2008 4:06 PM

I had ACL replacement on feb 1st. My surgeon chose patella graft surgery and I also had some cartlidge repair done. I had an enormous amount of pain until the 12th. Until that day I could not even get out of bed. When I finally started getting around It was very hard to move without pain. My surgeon has not given me any clear post op instruction besides stay of yor leg for 10 days. My gp is very dissapointed in the surgeons followup, but he was the gp that recommended my surgeon. I am now almost 10 days late starting my rehab procedures. What a joke!! It is hard enough to go through something like this without a bunch of unorganized fools running your recovery. I just hope that the repair was done properly.

John S
February 15, 2008 9:35 PM

Hi there I a having surgery on March 21, 2008 for ACL reconstruct as well as my lateral meniscal was toen as well. I am very nervous about this surgery. Most peolple I have spoken to tell me its the worst pain they have ever had. I am scared.. I am a healthy strong 45 year male. Any body out there could you me any idea what to expect. It sound slike the pain is realy bad.. Please help if you can.

Luis L.
February 16, 2008 8:50 PM

Hi I tore my acl about 8 months ago and am having surgery on Monday February, 25. I am still a bit confused whether I should go with the allograft or the autograft (patellar tendon). I think I may be going with the autograft I just wanted to know if someone here that went with the patellar tendon had any complications or knee cap pain, or something out of the ordinary. Thank you and will appreciate any feedback. Will keep you updated.

gregt
February 17, 2008 4:24 PM

John S. I'm 39 and just had ACL reconstruct with patella graft and meniscas on April 5th. Doc did a nerve block and had pain on Day 3 and 4. Was off Loratab by day six. Still on crutches and brace but getting around very well. If you can afford it I would recommend the Game Ready system. You can rent for 14 days or buy it out right. This will speed your recovery along well. I was told to expect the worst but it really wasn't that bad.

Chris
February 17, 2008 5:02 PM

I tore my acl back in 1987. I have been running on it for twenty some odd years. At the time I was told I did nothing but stress it. Needless to say since it has been out it has caused other problems like bad arthritis in my knee. I had the surgey 2/7/08 and today is 2/14/08 and I feel as though I am healing fast. I have been off the crutches since 2/10/08 and there has been no swelling at all.If I push myself it does hurt a little but its not bad. I will have a straight leg brace on until 2/22/08 when I will return to have the stiches removed and start rehab, My advice to anyone who has a torn acl to get it fixed asap. The longer you go without the repair the more damage you will do to your knee. I thank God I had the provisions to go ahead and get it fixed even twenty years after the fact. At least I will be able to stop any further damage to my knee and with the right exercises I will be able to return to a more active life style. Advice for John S. Go in there with a good attitude. I am 40 years old.I was a little apprehencesive about the whole procedure, being put under and all, but with God on my side, the power of prayer, and a good reassuring surgey unit, I feel like I came out good. As far as the pain its not that bad at all. Its by far not the worse pain I have ever been exsposed to. I would have to give that one up to when I got burnt up but thats a whole other story. Trust in God and your surgical team relax let them do thier job and pray. It really works.

Deb :0)
February 17, 2008 10:35 PM

John, My pain was only real bad for the first 3 or 4 days. Yes, it is some of the worst pain I have had, but after a few days the pain I had in my knee before the sugery was gone and the only thing that hurt were the insicion areas. I only needed my pain meds to sleep and to use the CPM. By day 6 I wasn't using them at all except for when I was on the CPM because stretching it out hurt. I am on week 8 now and only take motrin for PT days to cut down on the swelling. I had ACL, as well as lateral and medial meniscus done. I am very glad that I did the surgery! I don't have any more of the pain and constant instability that I had prior to it. Good luck!

Deb :0)
February 17, 2008 10:41 PM

Hi Laurie! I started my PT the next morning. My surgeon was very adamant that I start ASAP. Throughout the night of the surgery I had to do foot pumps, which I found helped me a lot when the pain got bad. Everyone I talked to said that PT during the first 6 months was the key to a full recovery, and I believe them.

john
February 18, 2008 10:15 AM

Hi I had ACL reconstruct Feb 12 and today feb 18th, my ROM is 92 as of last night, I can straighten my leg, The main thing is I stayed in my motion machine and really pushed it the last two days, 6 hours at least a day, ice also very important, wa able to put weight on the leg this morning. I didnt do the graft

john
February 18, 2008 10:15 AM

Hi I had ACL reconstruct Feb 12 and today feb 18th, my ROM is 92 as of last night, I can straighten my leg, The main thing is I stayed in my motion machine and really pushed it the last two days, 6 hours at least a day, ice also very important, wa able to put weight on the leg this morning. I didnt do the graft

Jennifer
February 18, 2008 12:59 PM

Hi everyone, i am 28 and tomorrow on the 19th, I am having ACL surgery and am using the hamstring graft. I am so freaked out. I thought of the cadaver, but it seems to have more risk of rejection as well as infection. I have 2 young children at home and pretty much do it on my own. I am very worried of how recovery is going to go. I think the fear of everyone sayong it is very painful is scarey and not being able tomove for some time. Maybe anyone with this experience that could relate and maybe reads how you are doing would be great. Thanks, Jennifer..Springfield OH

Tessa Ouellet
February 18, 2008 2:54 PM

Thanks L for your advise. The pain in the calf actually went away. I was suppose to wait 3 weeks after surgery to start physio as the surgeon said the graft didn't take the way he wanted. I had a check up with him 2 weeks after surgery to remove stiches and after manipulating my knee, agreed I could start physio. I have to say that it was very hard at first. After not putting any weight on that leg, just putting my foot square on the floor was extreme pain and pressure. However, i am pleased to say that entering my third week in physio, all is great. I still have some swelling at the knee and will be wearing this brace (0-90) until meeting with the surgeon again on March 5. Since being allowed to start physio 3 weeks ago, I walked for one week with one crutch and the next week, I was crutch free. I would have to agree that physio is key and be committed to your home exercise as well.

laurie
February 19, 2008 7:15 AM

Hi DEB, Thank you for your response. I did talk to the surgeon (after the nurses were fed up with talking to me), he said I could start PT whenever I wanted.. So I plan on getting ahold of PT before my surgery and getting the ball rolling. Thank you for your response.. What do you mean by "foot pumping", I am assuming you mean plantar flexion??? Thanks again... Did you have the allograft or hamstring graft?

Gil
February 19, 2008 8:14 PM

I tore my ACL in august of 2006 and it took me until october of 2007 to be able to travel back to Brazil and have it reconstructed. 2 reasons for that: 1) my long time doctor is amazing and very experience. He only treats knees and maily athletes. 2) the surgery in Brazil is as good as it is here in the US but it costs only about $3000 dollars. I'm on my 4th month of recovery and I'm already free to jog and practice free kicks (i'm a soccer player). According to my doctor i'll be able to be back to the field in about 2 months and a half. The surgery was very simple and my good muscle structure has helped my recovery. Good Luck for those who are in the same boat!!!

Steve, Atlanta, GA
February 20, 2008 8:31 AM

Hi all, I am a 50 yo male in my 3rd month of rehab after ACL/ meniscus surgery. I tore it when hit by a car at 40 mph while training for the Chicago Marathon.I opted for the allograft due to my age and desire to return to running. My surgery and rehab have progressed well. Yes ,there is some pain, but mine was minimal by day 5. I started PT on day 2 and have 2 sessions aweek. I got control of my quad on day 6. I will soon be running. The keys to recovery aregood pre-hab, follow directions and do what your PT/MD tell you and work hard. Stay in the CPM and use electric stimulation on your quads to prevent atrophy. I also recommend the Game Ready system. My only real excruciating pain came during flexions/ ROM during the first 3 weeks. It is a long road but be patient and diligent to assure a good outcome.

Holly Marie
February 20, 2008 10:31 AM

To Have Surgery or Not -- this is the Question! I know everyone on this forum has opted for surgery. I may be in a position where I will need to make a decision on whether to have surgery. I've read a lot on the issue but what to see if anyone else had to make this decision. I tore my ACL while skiing Jan. 20. I've been doing PT and can almost fully extend my knee. I am a 51 year old female (the surgeon did say if I were 21 he would definitely recommend surgery). Although I will miss skiing, I can give it up but hopefully can cross country as I enjoy being in the snow. I can't give up "level II" activities (running, gym, biking, etc.). I try to do something everyday to stay fit and that is important to me. I will be testing out walking around my house and office without the brace -- to see if the knee gives out. If it keeps giving out, then an easy decision - surgery. If it doesn't, I can continue PT to strengthen and see what happens. Some people are lucky and the knee can manage without an ACL. Anyone want to comment?

Deb :0)
February 20, 2008 9:35 PM

Hi Laurie! Yeah, basically the same thing. The doc recommended it to keep the blood flowing, but I also found that it helped to ease some of the discomfort when it got real bad the first night. I had a hamstring graft, and I also had medial meniscus repair and lateral meniscus removal. I was on my crutches for 5-6 weeks so the meniscus could repair. I am very happy that I had it done!

emm
February 21, 2008 1:02 AM

hi i had my acl reconstructed 11 days ago using my hamstring and have found it alot better going than expected. i think the key was having done it skiing 6 months ago and not realising i had but then finding a great PT who has also had 2 surgeries herself and works closely with a surgeon was the crutial thing. she even came to surgery with me as then she knows exactly what she needs to treat. secondly get a nerve block - i had not pain (and feeling) in my leg for around 1 1/2 days, however could still walk out of hospital on crutches 8 hours after surgery. so far so good, full extension and 120 degrees flexion today at PT. am walking with no crutches after day two and now with only a slight limp. i really recommend getting a great team on board who work well, hands on advice and def keep up the exercises!!!! back to work on monday and in the pool swimming as well. fingers crossed can be back on the slopes in august (or so the PT says) all the best

karen
February 21, 2008 9:01 AM

I am trying to decide whether or not to have surgery to repair the ACL and my MCL has a grade 3 tear also. This was a result of playing indoor soccer. My doctor told me thie ACL surger is elective but my insurance provider has told me it would be covered and just needs a precertification. Some of you would consider 57 old but I am very active and play soccer 4-5 times a week. This is also a large part of my social life. Is it possible that I can make my knee strong enough through therapy to play soccer again or should I get this done ASAP?

Mark
February 22, 2008 12:01 PM

I was wondering if anyone could offer some advice or had an experience to share regarding getting back extension. It's been 8 weeks and I can get full extension if I push my knee really hard but just sitting down with my legs in front of me my knee rests at about 5 degrees away from full extension. Is this normal for 8 weeks or am I behind schedule? My PT says I have really tight hamstrings and calves so I've been doing a lot of stretching but it's slow going. Anyone have any advice? Thanks, mark [mark dot stevenosky at gmail dot com]

Katie
February 23, 2008 11:34 AM

I'm 15 years old and I had my ACL surgery with the cadavar procedure on december 7, 2007. I'm entering into my third month of recovery and physical therapy. My knee is back to its normal size and moving better than ever. I still can not feel touch to a couple of parts on my knee, but doc says feeling will come back within the year. I tore my ACL at one of our basketball practices, I went one way and my knee dislocated. It was the worst pain I had ever experienced. I only got to play four games that season, but I'm expected to make a full recovery. I still have a long road to travel, but it feels good to look back at how far I've come. My advice to other ACL patients (especially the ones my age) is not to give up your goals because of this obstacle. Its just a way of testing your ability, and in the end it will make you stronger than you could of ever imagined. Never give up hope, and keep your love for the things just out of reach.

Jen
February 24, 2008 7:01 PM

I am a 28 year old who has just torn her ACL- for the second time, same knee. I tore my first ACL in 93- and reinjured it while skiing. They used my patella tendon as a graft the first time... I have to choose between a cadaver or hamstring graft this time. Has anyone had this experience- tearing their ACL twice (or more), and having to decide which to use for their graft? If so, I would love to know what you chose, etc.

Amy
February 25, 2008 2:52 PM

What kind of exercises can I do to prepare for recovery? I'm going to have surgery in the next few months and I'm in terrible shape. I'm 35. I'm in quite a bit of pain now if I walk for even a short time. Even water exercise classes are causing aches and pains.

Tim
February 26, 2008 2:31 AM

I'm 28 and due to have the ACL reconstructed in my right knee on monday. Reading this blog and the comments has managed to simultaneously give me confidence whilst terrifying me! Like some of the posters on here, its taken a while to get it correctly diagnosed (A&E doctor told me it was a sprain, despite the fact i told him i felt it dislocate and i couldnt bend it at all - useful!) and I have since re-dislocated my knee 3 times. Not playing sport mind, once i did it just trying to sit down at a comedy show. I didnt laugh. I usually play football 4-5 times a week, so the last 9 months have been incredibly frustrating - reading some of the stories about the quick recoveries has just made me more determined to do the same.

Stuart
February 26, 2008 3:17 PM

I am a 29 year old wrestling coach, I just got the results today from the doctor that my MRI last week showed a ACL tear, not partial, complete. Surgery looks to be in the future for me. I am no stranger to it, broke my collar bone, broke my right arm twice, left arm once (requiring a external fix) had my right knee scoped twice for meniscus, and now the ACl deal in my left knee. I am an avid weight trainer and hopefully being in good shape and driven will help me to a full recovery

Luis L.
February 26, 2008 7:00 PM

Im 23 year old male tore my acl playing soccer. Twisted my knee. Just had surgery yesterday using the patella tendon and minor damage to my meniscus. So the next day after surgery I'm in pain, but the worst are the headaches and stomachaches. I guess it's the pain killers or the pills for the swellin. I threw up the little food that I ate. Any movement of my knee is a lot of pain. I'm scheduled to see the doc on thursday and will start pt on Monday. Right now I don't feel so good, but I know in the long run it will be payoff.

Mike Power
February 27, 2008 2:34 PM

I'm a 30 year old from NYC and I just had ACL reconstructive surgery on Friday Feb 15th 2008. I tore my right ACL playing football, on 11/25/07. I did extensive research online, reading articles, visiting Doctor sites etc. trying to get as much info as possible about this procedure. I had an MRI but the official confirmation was the minicam they used right before going through with the procedure. Basically if you want to be able to have any chance at playing sports again, especially football get the surgery! Before my injury I was very active playing sports and weight training, since my injury I've been quite bummed out at the fact that I won't be able to do the things I used to do for quite some time. How long exactly, is difficult to determine because everyones body heals differently and at it's own pace. The most important thing for anyone is to be honest and consistent with the rehab therapy program that is given post surgery. You must be up for the challenge and do your at home exercises. Listen to your knee. If you feel some pain or discomfort from doing a particular exercise tell your therapist. Make sure you are not doing too much too soon. Those of us that are used to being active want to hurry up and get better fast, but we must remind ourselves that the slogan "No Pain No Gain" does not apply to ACL rehab therapy. You want to pace yourself and completely heal before going back out on that field to compete. My Doctor suggested I use a Cadaver which had me a bit freaked out because of the disease risk. I spoke with someone I contacted on this site who gave me some good advice and expertise on that issue (in like 20 years there has been no serious case reported of anyone contracting a disease from using a cadaver). My Doctor also uses cadavers from a reputable source called "The clearant Process" to give you extra protection on top of the standard sterilizing procedure. This definitely made me feel a lot more comfortable. Anyhow, this is post-op day 12 and I have no need for pain meds throughout the day, but I do take them to help me sleep. Although I'm feeling much better I still have a little discomfort when sleeping. I only use a brace to walk around, got rid of my crutches on day 10 and opened the brace to a flexion of 90 degrees. I am making some good progress but I was warned today at my therapy session to take it easy. I was feeling a bit tender with slight pain near my knee cap and my therapist thought it was a result of me doing a little too much. I'm scaling back a bit on my aggressiveness, I was doing my at home exercises everyday including twice on my days with the therapist, so he suggested I take a break from my at home exercises on my therapy session days. He said if I push too much too fast I may recover a bit sooner but at the expense of feeling that knee pain on a regular basis. I definitely don't want to feel that pain anymore. I've gained about 15 pounds since my injury but I'm determined to recover and rehab the right way so that I can return to my activity level and get back to my athletic shape and self again.

Luis L.
February 28, 2008 3:30 PM

I'm a 23 year old male. I tore my acl and minor damage to my meniscus in June of 07 playing soccer. Had surgery Monday Feb. 25 and today I just saw my doctor.. He said the most important thing is to straighten out my leg. I'm scheduled for PT on Monday. Pain is not that bad I only take my pain meds at night to sleep. I used the patella tendon graft so I get sharp pain by my kneecap when I move my leg.

GregT
February 28, 2008 6:27 PM

We'll I'm +3 weeks on my ACL repair withbpatella graft and miniscusity. Down to brace only and doing well. Pain was only on day 3 & 4. Glad I finally did this. I've put this off for 10 years and now that its over I wished I would have done it sooner.

Fabg
February 29, 2008 4:55 AM

My husband is a 40 year old male who had acl surgery last night. He's is alot!!!!! of pain. Any tips on easing his pain a bit?

Dee
March 1, 2008 8:19 AM

Hi I'm Dee, I tore my ACL Dec 15 skiing with my boys. I had surgery 2/26. I am 50 as of 2/20. I am having a speedy recovery regardless of taking a fall the first night after surgery. I had the spinal block. so could not feel my leg. got home took the brace off just to take a peak and tried to walk to the couch w/ crutches...ooops did not feel my leg and down I went. So Please be careful and do not take that brace off and move around. I ended up with horrible extra bruise and swelling. Had xrays, Thank the good Lord it is not broke. The first night was great while the spinal block was still working...the 2nd day was the pain day. The 2nd day I took a 5 hour trip to go home to recover. Had to travel from MPLS to Madison Area. It all went well...by day 3 was well enough to take yet another trip to Hurley to rest a couple of days up north. I found that while the pain was bad when moving leg. I would take my neck scarf and hook it around the bottom of my ankle and lift my leg where I wanted it to go. With no Pain... Day 5 and I can move my leg without pain...using maybe 1 pain killer a day....looking forward to physcial therapy Monday....It is painful but much more manageable that what I had thought it would be. Just do what the doctor says and keep the knee imob ilizer on...I am glad I continued to swim and exercise before my surgery. As My arms and other leg are strong to help me move the way I have to, to compensated for the other leg....I feel wonderful on Day 5 and not much swelling or pain...Good Luck to the rest of you....

laurie
March 2, 2008 7:50 AM

Today is day 6 after ACL surgery. I started PT 4 days after surgery and it was awesome. It hurt, and was discouraging realizing how much muscle strength I lost, but it was sooo informative and I actually felt better after. I had the allograft with general anesthesia. Day 1 was painful, day 2 was REALLY PAINFUL, and the rest have had their moments. I strongly encourage getting the surgery and being vigilant about PT. My surgeon didn't want me to start PT til after the first visit, (13 days after surgery) I was adament about starting PT as soon as possible and he was getting frustrated with me and gave me the prescription the day of surgery. Good luck to all of you.

Raven Phillips
March 3, 2008 5:25 PM

I tore my ACL 3 weeks ago playing basketball. Im having surgery April 1st. Now my doctor told me I was out for the rest of the season. And will be back playing within 6-9 months. I was wondering has anybody had a faster recoovery then that ? I'm sure mines would be faster though.

matt
March 3, 2008 6:10 PM

im 28yr old male. i tore my acl back in Sept. of 07 and surgery on Oct 26. i had the patella tendon graft. i have been doing some jogging and jumping for the past three weeks or so and have had alot of pain in the front of my knee where they took the graft. im wondering how normal this is and how long it will take for this pain to go away.

TJ
March 4, 2008 3:28 PM

Just wondering if someone could answer a question for me. I am scheduled for ACL surgery in April, was wondering how long after surgery you are able to be somewhat active. My job requires being on my feet most of the day everyday!

Dacia
March 5, 2008 9:24 PM

Hi, I am 37 years old, female and am having my 2nd ACL surgery and a mensiscus repair done on the same knee on March 18th. My first surgery (used a cadaver) was in 1998 from skiing. My knee has never been the same since the first surgery - always stiff and achy. This time my doctor believes it is very loose causing a lot of instability which probably contributed to the meniscus tear. He says if I don't repair the ACL now I will eventually get another tear and another until I get the ACL fixed. However, my doctor wants to repair it in two separate surgeries. On March 18th he wants to repair the meniscus, take out the old screws, core bone from my hip and fill in the screw holes. Crutches and no driving for 3-4 weeks. And I have a 1 and 3 year old :) Then in 6 months he would go back in and actually fix the ACL. (To Jen, I'm not sure what type of graft he plans on in 6 months but I will ask at my pre-op next week) Is this crazy? I have never heard of doing it this way before and can find no information on it. I am getting serious cold feet. Has anyone heard of this method before?

Michael
March 6, 2008 6:33 AM

Whow!, Reading the comments here have me scared - but hopeful. Im a 27 yo male & I tore the acl in my left leg playing soccer ( am i hearing an echo here? ) The ball flew over my head, i jumped to header while an oposistiong player knudged me mid air, i landed twisted & 'POP' - eveyone heared it. Worst thing is that player went on to score the winning goal (ARRRG!!!) I did it on the 10/2008 and am finally having surgery next week (bloody public health system!). Took a while for them to do diagnostics, x-ray, ultra scan. Not sure what type of surgery im having but the Doctor mentioned something about taking liniment from my right thigh & crossing it over the left knee. Hope my other leg doesnt hurt to much, i have allot of stairs in my house! Anyways, funny thing is, right now im almost back to full fitness! My leg still clicks & carrys on a bit, but my top speed is almost back, im playing soccer again, i beat my best time in a regular marathon i run in! BUT, i can still feel its a bit instable. Ive put a lot of work into my quads at the gym & i ride my bike almost evey day ( i highly recommend this for keeping your fitness up while being easy on your knee!), but there are moments, certain movements, when i feel like it could give for a second. Scares the hell out of me! I dont want to be older & my weaker muscles not be able to hold my leg in!! So im keen to get the surgery & get on with the recovery. I really enjoyed reading your stories everyone, made me feel less alone in this. Ill keep you updated on how it goes - hopefully its a quick recovery.

Rob
March 7, 2008 9:27 AM

I am 30 and did ACL July 2007, having op in April this year. Wasn't worried at all until i read all your comments about the pain!!!!!! Thanks very much !!! Did mine playing football ( not soccer! naughty Americans, it is football, you remember that! ), planted my left foot and my momentum followed through, my bottom half of my leg stayed put but the top kept on going, i heard two clicks and i just fell. The pain was horrible for about twenty minutes then it subsided. It has gone again about six times since i originally did it, jumped whilst playing with the kids and it just went from underneath me. Need it doing as want to get back to FOOTBALL but didn't realise how llong and how hard it was going to take. Wish me luck and gl to you all.

Jessica Koslowski
March 7, 2008 9:01 PM

Once again, another soccer story. Hurt my knee on 2/9/08 and went for surgery on 3/4/08. Inbetween the surgery I was limping around, and hurting the rest of my body b/c it was compensating for the pressure and weight Icouldnt put on my leg. I had a full acl rupture and a minescus tear on my left leg. They did Arthroscopic as well as cut down the center of my knee to take a piece of my patellar out to use for the reconstruction. I'm on day 3 and so frustrated. I can't even go to the bathroom without assistant. I started PT on 3/6, 2 days later. Very painful, even the smallest movements they make you do. But you must do them. therapy is the most important part. I just look forward to playing sports and hitting the gym again. Dr. said, @ least 4 months. My work requires me to be on my feet for up to 10 hours/shift, so no work for 4-6 weeks. If you are getting surgery, prepare as much as possible to eliminate boredom. May sound silly, but since painklllers are known to constipate you, if you do not move your bowls in a day or 2, be sure to drink some sort of fiber drink or tea that will help or else you will be nauseaus and feel terrible. you need to flush the meds out of you, lots of water too. I got extremely dehydrated on day 2. i couldnt get rid of my dry mouth, chills, dizzy etc. Gatorade helped and got a bottle of electrolytes to add to my juices or water. I was on painkillers, anitobiotics, and anti-itchy/nauseas meds and they also put a patch behind my ear for nausea which I kept on for 3 days. I also experience 60% of my pain on the back of my knee which I found strange. Worst part is getting up and down. i need someone to lift my leg by my ankle and move it with me until it reaches the ground. I wish anyone who goes through this, good luck and a speedy recovery. I look forward to the day where i will say, "I'm so glad I got that done."

Ken
March 9, 2008 5:45 PM

I fell on snowy ice Dec. 20,07 outside my backdoor and dislocated my kneecap. After 60 days of therepy I had still not attained full motion and still had a lot of pain that would keep me up at night. The pain killers began to affect my stomach and that too made it difficult to sleep and I have suffered a severe decrease in appitite. On 3-13-08 I will undergo arthroscopic surgury and I am not that confident that there will be a significant change in my condition. There is no light duty in my profession so I have been off work all winter. Does anyone have something positive to tell me?

Craig
March 10, 2008 8:34 AM

Had an ACL Reconstruction on Feb 21st 2008, 2 and half weeks now and i'm back to normal. Back driving and also back at work, started back at work 5th March, its feeling really good and strong.

Calvins Biko
March 10, 2008 9:35 AM

Hurt my knee and tore my meniscus on 18th March 2005 while playing rugby. went for surgery on 20th April 2005. Ruptured my ACL on 1st September 2007 after resuming active play. Went for ACL Patella tendon graft reconstruction and its almost six months know and am feeling stronger and ready to play but will have to wait for my doctors permission.

Carrie
March 10, 2008 12:40 PM

Hello everyone. I'm on the verge of some sort of breakdown. I am having ACL reconstuction and a meniscus repair tomorrow. yes tomorrow. I am scared of everything, the pain , the recovery process, the surgery, my own emotions, everything. I can't stop crying, and all of this hasnt even begun yet. Thank you all for sharing your stories. I know it will be hard but look forward to any input any of you have during this process.

Nicole
March 10, 2008 7:42 PM

hi i am a 17 year old female and i tore my acl completely playing soccer. I don't really remember what happened because it happened very fast. All i know is that it hurt for like 5 min and it stopped. I thought that i was ok and my knee was fine, so i decided to go back in and play(wrong decision). As i ran into the game my knee gave out and i fell hard! It took me about 2 months to find out that i tore my acl completely and that I have to get surgery. That really sucked because i couldnt play my favorite sport, softball. I am scheduled for sugery march 21. My doctor told me that they are taking it from my shin and placing it into my knee arthosopically . I would just like to know how long will it take for me to run again? i am also concerned with the the size of the scar..

Sachin Karmarkar
March 10, 2008 11:03 PM

I had ACL Reconstruction and Meniscus Repair Surgery on 2/27/2008. first day was great because you don't feel anything. I had general anaesthesia. I think that was good decision. Day 3,4,5 were the worst days. I had major constipation problem. I had to call on call Dr. for advise. She told me to take stool softener. It really helps. Be sure to ask your Dr. of side effects of pain killers. In my case this was the side effect and believe me it was the worst problem than surgery itself. I use to get tired just by going to restroom. During first 9 days i was not able to go to restroom on my own. Make sure to have someone with you to take you to restroom. You need help. Don't be shy to ASK for help. I am lucky to have a great friend. He and his wife are taking care of me. I cant imagine doing this surgery without their support. My Dr. told me to start PT immediately 1 day after my surgery. On friday 2/7/08 they removed my stitches. I am still using crutches and brace. My Dr. is expecting to have crutches for 2 more weeks. Now i can unlock brace while sitting for 90 degrees. But still for walking and sleeping they are on. Yesterday my Dr. told me that its alright to switch to Tylenol. I wish goodluck and speedy recovery to anyone who is going through this or planning for the surgery.

Luis L.
March 11, 2008 1:45 PM

Hi Jessica, I know how you feel I felt the exact same way. But now two weeks post-op I'm feeling much better. I can almost bend my knee all the way. The PT said I can bend my knee about 128 or so. I can also use the bike at PT now. I was able to straighten my leg about 3 to 4 days after the surgery. Now I can do just about everything except walk w/out crutches. Thats my next goal to ditch the crutches asap. Just hang on there and remember to elevate your leg and ice a lot. I think what helped me before PT was to do straight leg raises. I didn't think I could but I did and was glad. The most important thing is to get your quad muscles back. Although anyone out there ask your doctor b4 you try any exercises prior to PT.

J. MC
March 12, 2008 8:38 AM

I am 28 I have had a ACL injury for quite sometime and the day after Christmas I finished it off for good. I had an Allograft repair (cadaver ligament) on 2/22/08. I also had two meniscus tears medial and lateral repaired. On Friday it will have been three weeks since my surgery. I have taken my immobilizer off this week and I am walking with one crutch. I still have some aching pain all over my knee but the swelling has decreased considerably. I had shoulder surgery two years ago and overall this is a much easier recovery. I stuck to my PT 2 times daily through my recovery from shoulder surgery, as my job, lifestyle, and passion depends on my shoulder. My shoulder feels great. I hope my knee responds the same through this recovery. The hardest part of your/my recovery is the mental part. I live in the mountains and watch my friends and wife participate in the activities I love daily, while I stare out the window and wish I could too. I feel my knee get stronger daily thanks to the PT, my advice to anyone is to be patient. There will be a time when you knee feels really strong but the reality is that it is at it's weakest point. That is usually 8-10 weeks into your recovery. I always have to remind myself I have invested alot of time, money, and pain into getting better. In a couple of months when I get to return to the activities I enjoy this will all be worth it.

Cara
March 12, 2008 3:59 PM

I am a 31 year old who had their 2nd ACL surgery August 9th '07. It was a hamstring graft this time (the first was a patella) I am still in therapy because I am still in a lot of pain. The recovery was fairly easy after my first surgery. I had an MRI because my therapist thought that I might have torn meniscus due to the area where I am feeling pain- the results were inconclusive but my surgeon is going to take out my screw. He thinks that is the pain source. I have heard of a lot of people getting out screws after reconstruction with a patella, but not a hamstring. Has anyone had this happen?

linds
March 13, 2008 2:13 PM

hey Nicole, my names lindsey. im 15 and i tore my acl this basketball season. like you im not going to be able to compete in one of my favorite sports...track. i just had my reconstruction on monday the tenth. they used an allograft and had to repair a little tear in my meniscus. To answer your question about running, my doctor told me it will be about 12 weeks. and the scars, i have four of them, and they are all less than an inch long. but it depends on the type of graft you are going to use.

Drew N.
March 13, 2008 3:41 PM

I'm a 27 year old male living in NYC, and I tore my ACL skiing on Feb. 23, 2008. I had surgery on March 4, and just returned from my first post-op visit to my doc today (March 13). Like most everyone else, I'm sure, I did a ton of research before going into surgery. After having gone through the surgery and beginning rehab, I'm surprised by a lot of the things that I didn't find through my research, so I wanted to post them somewhere. Here are some things I would have found helpful or things I've learned or been through so far: 1) I chose the "allograft" tendon for my surgery - i.e. using a tendon from a donor/cadaver. There is plenty out there written about the pros and cons between using your own tendon (i.e. patellar or hamstring) or a cadaver, so I won't go into that. I just thought I'd make it clear here that one of the primary reasons for my "easy" recovery thus far (in relation to a lot of what I've read above) is because I didn't have a piece of my body taken out to replace my ACL. As you can imagine, this is much easier on your body (there are cons to this as well...again, not going into it here). 2) In case your doctor doesn't tell you...assuming you are limping or have difficulty getting a full range of motion after your injury, but before your surgery...DO EXERCISES BEFORE YOUR SURGERY. Do exercises to maintain your leg's strength, and do exercises to regain as much of a full range of motion with your knee as possible. After your surgery, you're going to lose a lot of strength due to the procedure and your relative inactivity. As such, you should make sure your leg is as close to full strength going into surgery as possible. You can easily find these exercises on the web. 3) A lot of people have commented that they had nausea. I had no nausea after my surgery whatsoever. I'm sure this is partially because I got lucky, but part of it is because I chose to have the spinal anasthetic instead of general anasthetic during surgery. You can research these and ask your anasthesiologist, but it seemed like a no-brainer to me. Although the spinal anasthetic does sound scary (sticking a needle into the base of your spine), they gave me some gas as soon as I got in the operating room, so I was woozy before they even injected me. I barely remember it. 4) IF you get spinal anasthetic, the one thing they didn't tell me was that when you wake up after surgery...you're paralyzed from the waste down for a little bit. For me, it was about 2 hours, and the feeling/movement slowly came back. Honestly, this was the worst/weirdest part of the actual surgery for me. 5) Just to share my experience, as a lot of the above posts seem pretty painful, I took painkillers the day of surgery. Probably more than I needed to. The next day, I took painkillers (Percocet) 3 times throughout the day...one pill each time. By the third day, I didn't take any and haven't since. I have never been in any pain as a result of the surgery, really. I would more describe it as discomfort from having my leg raised and in this brace in the same position for so long. I've taken Tylenol PM at night a few times to help sleep, but that's it. Again, part of this lack of pain is due to the fact that I used a donor tendon instead of my patellar tendon. And part of it is that I'm probably lucky (so far). My point is, don't be too scared. 6) Speaking of sleep...this is one of the toughest things to get through. Sleeping with your leg in a brace, on your back (I'm used to sleeping on my side or stomach), with your leg raised is very difficult for me. I just can't get comfortable. I've tried Tylenol PM and I've even tried the Percocet, but I think it's just me. I have trouble sleeping with my body/motion restricted. Be ready for that. 7) The toughest thing of all, for me, is that everything I do is a chore. Because I'm on crutches, it's difficult to even carry a glass of water from the kitchen to the living room. Moving anything heavy or sturdy is tough. Showering is a process (although I had my stitches out today and can finally shower without my brace on, thank goodness. Trust me, putting a garbage bag over that brace and working your way into a bath/shower is not a quick process). 8) I'd heard so many stories of people being pushed to walk immediately after surgery and returning to work (assuming they had a desk job) in 1 or 2 weeks. That's garbage. Sure, it could be done, but I don't see how you could effectively keep your leg raised, ice it periodically, and do your at-home exercises periodically while at work. My advice is to take as much time off work after surgery as possible. Seriously, I would recommend 4 weeks if you can. Like I said, with a desk job, you could probably swing 2 weeks...but it seems to me like you'd be doing so while sacrificing a proper rehab. That's all I can think of at the moment. I didn't go into anything that I thought you could find elsewhere (i.e. when you can walk, when you're off crutches, how long you wear the brace). Plus, all that stuff is VERY circumstantial, from what I can tell. Good luck to everyone.

Sue
March 14, 2008 8:07 AM

My son, age 16, tore his ACL playing soccer. The two surgeons we saw each use different tendons, the patella vs. the hamstring. I have read contradicting reports about the pros and cons of each. Does anyone have suggestions on how to choose? Which is really stronger in the end? Which has a better success rate? What affect on growth plates do each have?

Rob
March 14, 2008 4:50 PM

I tore my ACL on Feburary 6th at my Judo class. Funny thing is, my left leg is very strong, and relatively stable without an ACL (full rupture). That said, I've done a particular through several thousands of times, Uchi-Mata (requires you to come up on the leg) and I think what caused the rupture was the ankle brace I was wearing when I did it. I sprained my ankle a few weeks before, and bought a brace for an easier return to class. I think that since my ankle didn't give, my knee did. Anyway, swelling, pain and limited range of motion over the next few days. I saw the doctor on the 13th of Feb, and have surgery scheduled for April 3rd. My surgeon likes the hamstring graft better. He trained initially on the patellar tendon graft, but says that due to anterior knee pain later with the PTG he likes the hamstring graft. I read a report online where the normal ACL ruptures at 2200 Newtons, the PTG ruptures at 2500 Newtons, and the hamstring graft ruptures at over 3000 Newtons. I'm afraid of the surgery (especially after seeing the pictures of monster knee there) and of the pain. My doctor and my therapist tell me it's going to be nothing compared to my shoulder surgery I had done. If you want any future in sports, I'd suggest the surgery. I haven't had it done yet, and I'm afraid of the surgery. I will ultimately go through with it, and hope that I'm not too miserable.

Christie Henry
March 15, 2008 1:39 PM

Hello fellow ACL injuried people. I'm 39 and tore my ACL complete in Aug playing softball. The first MRI showed 2/3 tear, but my new MRI last week showed a full tear. I see the surgeon on Wed of this week. Sugery is set for April 11th. I'm scared. I have never had any type of surgery before. So thank you for sharing your stories. But get this. My husband went to rent some movies for this weekend....he comes home with "awake"....for those of you who don't know about this movie it is about people who look asleep for surgery, but never really go to sleep. They feel everything. I was like....."why would you bring that movie home 2 weeks before I'm having surgery?"...He states that lady at BB said it was good. Sorry to you husbands out there....but....sometimes....ya'll are idiots. Anyway....I will pray that all goes well and I sleep right through it. :-)

Zack Durden
March 15, 2008 8:45 PM

hey everyone! so after reading these comments I got alittle freaked out! Im 17 and I actually didnt tear my ACL while playing sports, I tore mine in my choir class while dancing to african music! I go in this coming tuesday for surgery and the thing that I am most worried about is the pain!! We have spring break so I have a good week before I have to go to school again, but I'm hoping that there isnt going to be much pain for it! It took me 2 months to find out that it was an ACL tear, the first doctor that we went to told us that it was just dislocated and to wear a brace but then while trying to get out of my car I feel again and went to see another doctor and he told me that I had tore my ACL the first time and my knee was just unstable that is why I fell the second time...so finally after waiting so long I get to have it!!! wish me luck!!

jade santos
March 17, 2008 2:33 PM

hey everyone. i am 18 yrs old and i tore my ACL and a little bit of my menicus. i must admitt im sooo scared of being put to sleep! i dont want to be put to sleep...thats my worst fear! i heard u can be awake just kind of out of it and get a needle in ur spine but i dont know. i just want this surgery to be here and over an done with! I am getting the hamstring...the Dr said it was the best thing to do. Does anyone have any idea what i should do. stay awake or just go to sleep? IM NERVOUS! say a pray for Jade Santos thnxxx!

Paul
March 17, 2008 7:04 PM

hi all, i am 23yr old male booked in for an acl reconstruction for next month (14th april) on my right knee. Its been a long long process to get where i am as i done the injury back in febuary 2007 whilst playing football. At the time the best way i could explain the injury was to say that it felt my knee had dislocated and almost come out the skin (i know that kinda sounds extreme). Anyway eventually after finally getting an MRI scan results showed i had 'Snapped my crutiate ligament'. As far as im aware i will be having the Hamstring graft procedure to reconstruct my knee. has anyone had this way done and go into detail more of how sucessful it was for you? Right now im not totally sure how i feel about it all, as for the past 13 months i havent been able to do ANY sports which has been a massive blow for me, so the way i see it i have to have it done. i have 6 weeks off work, after for the recovery process. Also was wondering if anyone could answer a few questions the would put me at rest a bit, will i ever be able to play football again, and if so how long should i be looking at? im going to vegas in sept time 5 months after the op, should this be alright? how long were people in hostpital after the op? Do you get an option to have stiches or staples cause i hear staples helps the healing better and scars are smaller?? How long should i be on crutches after? all in all is it worth it??!?!?!?!? If anyone can answer anything there it would be much appretiated!! (sorry its so long) Paul

Jen
March 17, 2008 11:01 PM

My husband is 35 and had ACL patellar reconstruction and clipping of a torn meniscus six days ago. He injured his knee playing indoor soccer. We did a ton of research on the different procedures and didn't feel comfortable with the small % of possible desease transfer (I know it's like 1 in 1-2M). My husband is still in A LOT of pain and taking Hydrocodone every 4-6 hrs. Crazy pain, especially when I have to help him stand after sitting and all the blood rushed down. He did PT for a month prior to surgery, but never was able to completely straighten his knee or bend it past 95 degrees. His doctor told me to get him into PT 3 days after surgery, but my husband refused and rescheduled for day 6, so we are going tomorrow. Has anyone had the patellar surgery? When did your pain lessen? What was your experience?

tariq
March 18, 2008 5:16 PM

hi im tariq and i got acl hamstring done i got it then 4 months after i was playing soccer again and doing stuff lifting weights and i retore it so i have to get surgery agaain first day of srugery is easy 2.3.4.5 are the worst!!!!!!

Joe Taylor
March 19, 2008 10:01 AM

All I have read is about young people and their ACLs. I'm 56 with a complete tear, skiing. Are there any old guys out there that can tell of their experiences. I have full range of motion with the bad leg. No pain, but surgery is for Tuesday the 25th.

Tessa Ouellet
March 19, 2008 4:13 PM

To Jade. I have had many surgeries and always went the general anesthetic way. This time for my ACL, I did the spinal tap. You are quite out of it. I was sleeping the whole surgery. The best was no groggyness after surgery. I am in week 9 of recovery. Just lost the brace 2 weeks ago. I have started light jogging and doing quite well. Can't fully bend my knee yet. I could not start physio for 2 weeks (as per dr. order). I had the hamstring reconstruction. The first thing my pt instructed me to do was to fully straightened my leg with the help of a bag of ice (or peas). I had to do this about 4 times a day. It was painful but he told me that if I lost the ability to do that it would be gone forever. To Joe. I am not so young either. I am 33 and this surgery was the best thing for me because I am very active. Doing your exercises (at physio and at home) is really the key to recovery.

Tessa Ouellet
March 19, 2008 4:14 PM

To Jade. I have had many surgeries and always went the general anesthetic way. This time for my ACL, I did the spinal tap. You are quite out of it. I was sleeping the whole surgery. The best was no groggyness after surgery. I am in week 9 of recovery. Just lost the brace 2 weeks ago. I have started light jogging and doing quite well. Can't fully bend my knee yet. I could not start physio for 2 weeks (as per dr. order). I had the hamstring reconstruction. The first thing my pt instructed me to do was to fully straightened my leg with the help of a bag of ice (or peas). I had to do this about 4 times a day. It was painful but he told me that if I lost the ability to do that it would be gone forever. To Joe. I am not so young either. I am 33 and this surgery was the best thing for me because I am very active. Doing your exercises (at physio and at home) is really the key to recovery.

Pam
March 19, 2008 6:21 PM

Hello, I appreciate all your accounts of events into an acl injury. I was told today I have an acl rupture... I picked up tennis a couple of months ago-played all the time when I was younger--and only played twice and I injured myself (acl.) I have been a jogger for 30 years, running 3 to 4 times week, but only 2.5 to 3 miles at a time. I need to mention--I am 47, soon to be 48 years old. I have not been told of the extent of the injury yet, and I suppose it is premature to write... I will do a followup when I find out more... I did to read further-esp. on my age group and injuries. Thank you for writing your comments. Pam

Janet Heidker
March 19, 2008 6:55 PM

I am a 55 year old female with a complete ACL tear left leg. It happened Feb 19 skiing in Vail. Surgery is scheduled for May 7 - hamstring reconstruct - I saw my chiropractor today who is doing acupuncture to help get my leg straight. I highly recommend this therapy. I am getting back pain as well because I limp. I have been going to the gym but am doing too much - exercise is OK, but no extra weight on the bad leg. I was leg pressing as much as I could bear. I am scared about the pain - have never been under general anaesthetic before (this is my surgeon's preference). I continue to read everyone's comments to help give me strength. Cheers to all of us for a minimal pain recovery!

Jaw in Cleve
March 20, 2008 4:56 AM

I did alot of research like everyone else and this is the best site ! Thanks. 42 year old male. Misdiagnosed 3 years ago w/ a displaced patella instead of the complete tear of the left ACL. Original injury was 3/11/05 and continued to play basketball 80% vs 100% and racquetball-100%, golf 100% with no issues until 1/25/08 when the knee gave out again playing basketball. Unbeknownst to me was the fact my quad and hammy weakened to the point it weakened my knee. I am lucky to be in Cleveland and have the Clinic. My Dr is the assistant Ortho for the Indians. I went to get checked out to see if my swimming rehab was going the right direction when the news was given, complete tear of the ACL and bucket handle tear in medial meniscus(periphery). I decided to go with the Dr's specialty which was the patella graft (my sister in 1985 and brother in 1994 both used patellas w/ no issues to date) Hamstring graft would weaken your hammy, allograft has risk of future rejections if you have to have transplants later in life. I scheduled the surgery for 3/11/08 and everything went well- this was my fourth surgery-(hand/finger) but the most serious. In at 8am out at 4:30pm. 3/12/08 at 5:30pm is when the numbing inside the knee wore off and the pain went until 3/14/08. I was on Percocet 5/350 but should have had a stronger dose-7.5/350/500. Luckily my wife reminded me of the breathing I ignored in lamaze class and that helped. 3/14/08 was post-op visit and I was still in alot of pain-7/10- but hard to put a number on it when it was the worst I ever felt in my life. The Dr gave me a shot of Demerol- best buzz ever !- ater being shown 5 exercises to do and changed my script to Vicodin-5/500 and that seemed to help over the weekend. Only negative was the medicine taste in my mouth from the shot over the weekend. The good thing is I only have a 3 inch cut down the center of my knee and one 1 inch cut for the scope. Dr was able to repair meniscus instead of cleaning/removing so that is good. 3/17/08 had PT and continued doing the same exercises. Pretty good results as extension was only off 5 degrees, flexion is at 70 degrees. 3/18/08 did exercises twice and was hurting a bit. I think I didn't ice it enough yesterday and this was the cause of the discomfort. 3/19/08 had PT again today- flexion off 3 degrees, flexion to 88 degrees of 145 degrees to match right knee. PT gave me 5 more exercises and advised to listen to your body. Shouldn't be doing exercises to fatigue. I've been reducing my pain meds from 6 per day to 3 and supplementing w/ Advil. I tried Aleve but it didn't seem to work as well as Advil. 3/20- I am at a 2/10 pain level today 9 days post op. Jen I hope this helps, Drew in NYC is absolutely correct. Prepare as best you can for the surgery- I was swimming 50 minutes three times a week up to the day before surgery. Now I am looking forward to playing golf all day on 7/11/08 or sooner and have decided to quit basketball and racquetball in lieu of biking, swimming and golf.

Robin Phillips
March 20, 2008 8:51 PM

I'm having ACL surgery on Tues, March 25th, my surgeon recommended a donar graft, I'm a 50 year old female avid skier and hiker. I tried to rehab it after the 1st scope while menicus heeled but there's no way, I need the surgery, I'm biking 50 minutes everyday(on my stander) Its in the best shape ever, But I'm really scared, I've taken off for 6 weeks even though I have a desk job, it took me a long time to get back after they scoped it last year, I know what lies ahead. I guess were all in the same ACL scare mode. Good Luck Joe, don't hit the slopes too early

Robin Phillips
March 20, 2008 8:51 PM

I'm having ACL surgery on Tues, March 25th, my surgeon recommended a donar graft, I'm a 50 year old female avid skier and hiker. I tried to rehab it after the 1st scope while menicus heeled but there's no way, I need the surgery, I'm biking 50 minutes everyday(on my stander) Its in the best shape ever, But I'm really scared, I've taken off for 6 weeks even though I have a desk job, it took me a long time to get back after they scoped it last year, I know what lies ahead. I guess were all in the same ACL scare mode. Good Luck Joe, don't hit the slopes too early

Holly Marie
March 21, 2008 8:14 AM

Hi Joe, Pam & Janet, I too am in your age bracket. I tore my ACL while skiing and my surgeon is leaning toward no surgery which I am not sure why and a bit surprised. I told him I am willing to give up skiing but not biking, long walks/hikes, stair master and running. I'd also like to do yoga. I am almost 9 weeks from the injury and don't quite have full extension. I'm doing exercises twice a day, exercise bike, upper body weights and knee extensions/leg curls on low weights to strengthen the quad. My question is did your surgeon suggest not having surgery? Are you considering it and why? Why did you decide to go with surgery? Thanks.

Janet Heidker
March 22, 2008 4:16 PM

To Holly Marie - By the time I returned home to Toronto, Canada from Vail, I knew I had torn my ACL because I had an MRI in Vail and the surgeon in emerg told me that I would require surgery to get full strength back if I wanted to ski again. When I saw the surgeon in Toronto, he discussed the options. He said, if I gave up skiing, he could recommend PT to get my leg working "normally". Not only do I love to ski, I also exercise at the gym 5 days a week at 6:30 am before work - I am on the treadmill - and like you, I am not willing to give that up. He said I am not a good candidate for patella graft because I am 5' 3" 110 lbs and that ligament is not a good option - so he suggested the hamstring - if I want to consider surgery. He told me that rehab is slow and painful, but if I didn't want to go through with it, I could function OK in the long run. He also said it is sometimes more difficult for "older" patients to heal after surgery. He asked me if I wanted to go home and think about it and then call his office with my decision. I didn't hesitate - I told him right there to give me the papers to sign. I decided to go with surgery because I lead a very active lifestyle - I want to know that I can dance, swim, exercise, ski, etc. without worrying about my knee giving out. I still can't ride the bike - I can't bend the knee enough. I nearly cried trying last week. FYI - my chiropractor was upset with me for doing exercises that strengthened the quad because he said that with a torn ACL the quad is not working properly and it only makes it worse. Reading your comments, you also enjoy a lifestyle that is hard on the knees. In order to have confidence in every step, you might want to consider surgery because in something like hiking, the ground is uneven and you will have to be very careful where you step. Please keep me posted as to your decision - I am working on getting my leg straight until May 7th. I look at it this way - the pain can't possibly be worse than childbirth!

Mike
March 22, 2008 5:38 PM

GOOD NEWS STORY!!!! I had surgery 1 week ago (left acl & minor mensisuc damage) & im already off my cructhces! I can full straighten my leg & my muscles are comming back on line one by one. My physio is blown away, saying that all the preparation work i did before surgey must have really helped. heres what i did. Hard work at the gym, strengthening my quads & hamstring. It hurt allot, but keep at it, it will pay off after the surgery BIG TIME! Try to get as much strength into your leg as possible, work those muscles, punish them! (obviouasly dont go to far as you do pop your leg out again, but dont just sit on your but feeling sorry for your self. physio physio physio before the surgey & your recovery will be MUCH better. And to those worried about going to sleep, its no where near as bad as i though it would be. Your awake & suddenly you family are standing over you & you have a morphine drip in your hand, ( use it :) Its over in seconds. Remember, there is definitly life after ACL injury & if anything, it will be better. My knee now feels very solid..even though its only been 1 week after the surgery! Good luck to all!

Zimri Mayfield
March 22, 2008 10:08 PM

My name is Zimri Mayfield and I am 15 years old and I recently tore my ACL the exact same way as the story above. I was playing indoor soccer and my knee and shin went opposite directions. I had my surgery on Thursday it is Saturday now and I can walk without my crutches but not very well but I hope to be able to get back to sports soon very soon because I am going back to my hometown to visit my friends and we all play soccer together and I want to be able to play with them so can you guys please pray for me. I hope you all get well soon and if you haven't had surgery, get it and don't be scared because it's not bad.

Zimri Mayfield
March 22, 2008 10:11 PM

To Paul you definately need to get the surgery otherwise you won't get back to football which I know is great fun.

Ma Bell
March 23, 2008 6:11 AM

Hi new to this site. My 17 year old daughter just had ACL surgery Mar.17. She had the patella graft is still in a lot of pain.. I understand from all of my research that this is the most painful(as compared to hamstring). Anybody here had the patella? If so when did pain get better? Also she is not eating a lot am worried about that too.

Danielle
March 23, 2008 3:24 PM

Hiya, I underwent surgery very recently -last tuesday the 18th of march to be exact, and am currently suffering from a fair bit of pain. I tore my (right-leg's) acl during a basketball game during the first step of a lay up -there was a loud clicking noise and i ended up on the floor. The pain was excruciating and my leg must have given way completely. I went to the e.r and here they treated me as if i had torn my ligament, so i was given crutches and told to rest it for the next week before returning a week later when it was less swollen. On returning to hospital i was still in lots of pain and couldnt extend or bend my knee properly. The doctor then scheduled me for an mri scan. on obtaining the results i was referred to the orthopedic surgeon, who informed me that i had ruptured my acl and that i had to have surgery (reconstruction using ham string). he didnt tell me another option, and from my age of 17 i guess he presumed i wanted to be back at my most mobile fitness level. he also said that there were lesions in my meniscus, but he would repair them (via stitches) if need be at the time of the operation if they hadnt already healed themselves! For the next month or so i went to physiotherapy to help me reach full extension and strengthen my leg before the operation. here we worked on stability, and strengthening via: leg raise machine, stepping (with weights), calf raises (with weights), cycling machine, rowing machine and the cross trainer. I had general anaesthetic since i was warned that young women are likely to suffer from headaches if they use spinal anaesthetic which can last for days to months. I am glad i used general since i feel i would have been more worried if i had used local. The operation turned out to be more complicated than the surgeon had anticipated since i had lots of lesions on both of my mensci and they couldnt be repaired by stitches. this meant in order to salvage my menisci they had to roughen my meniscus, i think they said by filing it down.. i am unsure with the exact details. I was told that i wasnt allowed to put weight on my leg for 6 weeks, due to the complications. After surgery i wasnt in much pain due to the painkillers. The night i spent in hospital was perfectly fine and i managed to get a good nights sleep. It was only after my bandage was removed 3 days later that i started to suffer from more pain and less nights sleep. The only painkillers i was told to take were paracetamols, so i am wishing i could have access to something a bit stronger to get my through the nights. I went to my first physiotherapy session just 3 days after surgery and he was astonished i was already able to fully extend my leg! My physio explained that he had confronted the surgeon and persuaded him that weight-bearing on my knee sooner wouldnt cause any excess damage to my meniscus so now i only have to have no weight on my bad leg for 2 weeks. This made me happier since i really do not want to be on crutches for my 18th birthday which is on april 10th. However i still realise it is highly unlikely i will be walking around by then... For the last few days i have been resting, keeping my leg elevated, since my knee is extremely swollen and as a result extremely heavy when i need to get up to go to the bathroom for example. Does anyone have any rough suggestions as to how long the swelling lasts for? Does anyone else not have to use a knee brace? since i wasnt given one.. or told to get one, is this a bad sign? Also how do you position your legs whilst sleeping? i find this is the worst part of the whole experience so your suggestions here will be much appreciated. Good luck to all those undergoing surgery soon! & hope that you all gain a speedy recovery!

Garry verhog
March 23, 2008 5:43 PM

Garry Verhoog I tore my acl playing basketball with my kids and it was very painful. Had surgery-a hamstring graft- on Tuesday. Went to meetings the next two days with a hydro therapy device. It circulates ice water around my knee and was very helpful in controlling the pain. Used Tylenol 3 for two days but haven't used any since. I have been keeping my knee elevated and iced for at least 6 hours a day and the swelling has nearly gone away. I have been really surprised at the lack of pain-had shoulder surgery 5 years ago and that was considerably worse. I will be able to return to some work this week as long as there is not to much walking. I did not have very much damage to my meniscus or my cartilage so I think that that really makes a difference in how fast you recover. Looking forward to softball season in a couple months

Holly Marie
March 24, 2008 7:32 AM

Janet (or anyone), Go to my blog (http://dcholly.blogspot.com/) and leave a comment so we can continue our comparisons and updates. That way we don't need to do a one-to-one "conversation" via this blog, which is more for one-to many conversations. I can also give you my email address.

Pam
March 24, 2008 7:51 AM

Mike, Good to hear sitting on your butt feeling sorry is not good. Thanks for the advise for preoperation fitness... I have not seen the orthoped. yet..., have called for some advice, but they do not want to give me any until I see the doc. So... I have been sitting on my butt -- doing nothing, feeling sorry for myself for 3 weeks. I can't bend my leg at all...excruiating pain when I do... I am on crutches for longer distances, and can't seem to let my leg hang too long or it swells. I thought any movement to the leg would make matters worse. I have continued to do situps, and some leg exercises. Anyway, thanks...for the advise to strengthen my quads/hamstrings... Pam Ouellette

Pam
March 24, 2008 9:25 AM

Mike, Good to hear sitting on your butt feeling sorry is not good. Thanks for the advise for preoperation fitness... I have not seen the orthoped. yet..., have called for some advice, but they do not want to give me any until I see the doc. So... I have been sitting on my butt -- doing nothing, feeling sorry for myself for 3 weeks. I can't bend my leg at all...excruiating pain when I do... I am on crutches for longer distances, and can't seem to let my leg hang too long or it swells. I thought any movement to the leg would make matters worse. I have continued to do situps, and some leg exercises. Anyway, thanks...for the advise to strengthen my quads/hamstrings... Pam Ouellette

Stephanie Lynn
March 24, 2008 9:26 AM

This is great site for people who are freaking out about surgery. I have one question if anyone can help me out, my doctor is telling me I have to make the choice if I want them to take a graft from my hamstring or patella. How would I know which one is best for me. I am very athletic and teach gym to elementary students so I need to get back on my feet as soon as possible. My doctor says that he thinks the hamstring graft is better while my physical therapist says the patella. Have any suggestions?

Joe Taylor
March 24, 2008 3:09 PM

Thanks folks for your comments concerning OLD people having ACL surgery. The surgery is tomorrow, I've read a lot about pain, not good. However I had no pain when it happen skiing Out of bounds at Snowbasin. Have had no pain at all, can straighten the leg completely the second day. So again my question is: Did anyone have no pain or problem walking afterwards and is there a correlation between the pain before and the pain after surgery. All the comments are of value, thank you.

Sandy Sieracki
March 24, 2008 8:53 PM

I wiped out "big time" skiing in Aspen, Feb 2nd, and one of my ski's did not release. I tore my ACL and my minescus. The pain was not great (it just felt "funky") and I skiied down the mountain with every intention of skiing the following day. WRONG! I was able to straighten my leg fully and was able to walk without trouble. It would just "give out" if I pivoted. The following month leading up to my surgery was not painful which made it difficult to decide what to do. One surgeon suggested re-habing for 6 months and if that didn't work then opt for surgery. I was worried that I'd spend 6 months trying to get well again and still end up having surgery. Because I grew up skiing, didn't want to give it up, didn't want to be "careful all the time" and didn't want to alter my active lifstyle, I took the other surgeons advise to "Get on with your life, have the surgery and move on". It's been 3 weeks since the surgery and I'm still in my brace but I don't need the crutches. The first few days really stink but as long as I was laying down and taking the Vicodin and Advil I was ok. The hardest part was asking for help all the time. Taking a shower, getting dressed and walking to the restroom was challenging. I really had to lean on my family and friends to cook, do carpool, laundry etc. You're basically incapacitated for 4-5 days. I slept with my brace and used the Polarcare ice machine for 10 days. Sleeping with a king size pillow under my leg worked well also. Stay ahead of the pain and always take the Advil when directed! I was warned many times, NOT to push it and do too much so I stayed home, literally, for close to 2 weeks. I'm super active, have 3 kids and run a business. I took a FULL two weeks off and have been religious about my physical therapy. Almost everyone I've encountered that has had the same experience, said they were glad they had the surgery and their knee was better than before. Every day gets better and I'm glad to be "over the hump". I hope I'll be running in six months...............

Stephanie Lynn
March 25, 2008 8:17 AM

hello- I am having surgery in two weeks and I am still not sure which tendon I should us to fix my ACL, I also have a slight tear in my meniscus. my doctor said the hamstring would be the best one for me but all the information I am reading is pointing to the patellar replacement. if anyone has experience that they could give me that would be great . i am a very active person as well as a gym teacher so I would like to be back on my feet as soon as possible and also have longterm stability with my knee. does anyone have any suggestions? thanks

Claire
March 25, 2008 8:43 PM

I tore my acl 3 months ago, just a week ago I had my first MRI to confirm the tear. I am a 51 year old flight Attendent, I have not cut back on my work hours and just yesterday comming home from Europe I was standing in the galley of the airplane, turned around and my knee gave out and I was on the ground! 2 of my flying partners had to pick me up and put me in a passenger seat. I have been going to rehab 3 days a week and thought I could cure this thing myself without sugery. I had to call in sick for tomorrows trip and have an appointment with my doctor in the morning. I am so scared to have the sugery! My job requires me to be on my feet sometimes for 12-13 hours a day. My question is, does anyone know ( and I do realize everyone is different) how long before I can return to work after the sugery and rehab? Please advise......

laurie
March 26, 2008 10:18 AM

HI All, I too tore my ACL. I did it skiing in January 2008. I had my surgery Feb 25 2008. I am a RN and I was really afraid of general anesthesia. They also did a cadeaver graft and most of the posts seemed like people had hamstring or patellar tendon graft. Post op still in the surgery center my pain was pretty bad 7/10. They gave me a Demerol injection then (which was wonderful) and vicoden for at home. The first 2 nights were really uncomfortable, I kept ice on it constantly and took the pain meds every 4 hours. The pain after that has never been above a 5 and I have been non weight bearing for a month now. I recommend taking the pain med as scheduled after surgery whether you have pain or not. It helps it from getting out of control. I started PT 3 days after surgery and that has been SO IMPORTANT to my recovery. It just is so important to know what to do and the correct way to do it. Like walking on crutches! I was able to do full rotation on the exercise bike the next week. The hardest part is that I want results faster than they are happening. My Physical Therapist assures me that it will take a while to get back my muscle mass and strength in that leg. I love the fact there are so many above 40 people on this site. Most of the people I meet are amazed that a 45 year old still skis???!!!! I plan to keep on skiing, roller blading , biking and hiking. Good luck to all of you getting surgery. This site is the best and has been a wealth of information!

Stephanie Lynn
March 26, 2008 4:10 PM

Hi everyone, I'm having surgery in two weeks on my acl and slight meniscus tear in my left knee. I have some questions if anyone can help...the doctor said that it would be best for me to get a hamsting graft but all the information that I am reading is pointing to the pettilar graft. I am very athletic and am also a gym teacher at a elementary school. So I would l like to get back on my feet as soon as possible but also would like to have long turm stability in my knee. i am worried about the whole thing, being put out, the pain, the swelling, not being able to excerise. I would love some suggestions. Thanks Stephanie

Sara
March 26, 2008 5:05 PM

Hi - I was wondering what people's thoughts were on the autograft versus the allograft. my doctor says he does 90% allografts. i am in my 20's and tore my ACL playing basketball - has anyone heard how it affects the rehab process?

Robin
March 27, 2008 8:53 PM

Hi Claire, I am near your age and just had my left acl reconstructed on Tues March 25, I tried to rehab it after a scope about a year ago but it was completely gone. However I had NO PAIN after the scope so I really biked 45 min every day 2 months before my surgery, my knee was in great shape for the surgery. In answer to your question, and being a flight attendant I would say 4-6 weeks before you could go back. I'm taking 6 weeks off and I have a desk job. Tomorrow is my first PT appt, I'm surprised how little swelling I have and I actually put a little weight on it today. I feel lucky that a have a great surgeon, he does NFL & NHL players. Good Luck I'm just sitting around if you have other questions Robin

John
March 28, 2008 8:18 AM

My daughter tore her acl while playing soccer this on September 22, 2007. She was 13 years old. The injury occurred on an artificial turf field. She was rushing towards the goal, on a break away with the ball. The goalie came out, in going for the ball she hit her hard with her body on the side of her knee. It buckled, she collapsed on the field, and the referee blew the whistle ending the game. After the pain subsided, she iced her knee and was walking around with a limp for a few days. She tried to play again the following week and stopped after 20 minutes. We went an Orthopedic surgeon at Lahey Clinic the following Monday. He diagnosed it as an ACL rupture after about 5 minutes and performing a manipulation test with her leg. We were shocked!! He scheduled an MRI for Hannah. I asked him if he was pretty certain about his diagnosis....He nodded. The MRI test confirmed the ACL rupture, the ACL wasn't even visible on the MRI. She also had a meniscus tear. Surgery was scheduled for November 9, 2007. The doctor was great, he spent an extraordinary amount of time with us answering any questions about recovery, surgery options, PT, and pain management. He recommended a surgery using part of her quadricep tendon. He explained that he was the only surgeon at Lahey Clinic, that used this type of ACL replacement. He explained that this tendon has a nice thick mass and provides a great graft for for replacing the ACL. I think he said about a third of the tendon was used?? The incision site on the quad location would be the most prominent scar. Physical therapy was scheduled prior to surgery. We were still in shock. After our initial visit, I went into my home office, locked the door, cried and started reading up on on ACL reconstruction. Allograft was out, she was too young. There wasn't a lot of data on replacement using the quadricep tendon but we had confidence in Lahey Clinic and this doctor's manner and knowledge. This site provided so much insight and hope that I felt indebted to provide my daughter's experiences. The actual surgery took about an hour and a half. It was day surgery. Recovery took about another hour and a half. The doctor met with us afterwards in the recovery area. My daughter was in very little discomfort initially. Prior to surgery, a device was used, a nerve tracer using a battery operated device, that located the nerve for the knee/quad area. In locating this, the anesthesiologist could inject a blocker that lasted for almost 24 hours to block the initial pain after surgery. This was really a great way to control pain. After 24 hours, pain was more intense. She used prescription pain meds to control pain. She was also provided with an ice cooler/knee wrap. This was a gravity fed system that allowed you to circulate iced water from the the cooler jug into the knee wrap with very little effort. She used this for at least a week. Recovery was slow. One of the things that really helped her spirits were the visits from friends, her soccer team and coaches and her basketball team visits. The lower incision site below her knee did not heal well for a long while. The area was puffy and looked infected. We took her several times to be examined by the surgeon. Her body was rejecting the "dissolvable stitches". A couple came to the surface and were removed by the doctor. He prescribed antibiotics which helped a little bit and eventually the incision healed, about 2 months after surgery. The screw that is used to secure the tendon/ACL is degradable and will dissolve in about 2 years. The quad muscle even at the 6 week mark was troubling. There was a depression in the muscle where the tendon was removed. The muscle looked deformed. 4 -1/2 months later the muscle looks back to normal and strong. She was told to stay off her leg for 6 weeks working down to one crutch, from what I understood, to allow the meniscus to heal. After a month she began rehab. We asked around about what physical therapy group to use. A lot of friends and neighbors advised us to use a group that supplied the trainers for our local high school. She went about 5x in December. She continued to use ice packs after rehab through mid January, about 2 months post surgery. Since the start of 2008, she has had 22 physical therapy visits. One comment the physical therapist made during the initial visit was that her knee cap was moving off to the side. PT and strengthening the muscle would eventually move the knee cap to a more normal position. When we were on vacation, about 14-15 weeks after surgery we were in the work out room of the resort and I was amazed at how she had progressed. She ran effortlessly on a tread mill for about a mile. My wife has taken her to the "Y" since and says that she is has progressed even further. My daughter never like running but, she has stuck with it to strengthen her knee and quad. She never complains about any pain. At her 3 month check up, she was advised by the surgeon that she was at a critical point. The reconstructed ACL has "shrunk" it's lowest level. From here on out it would grow and strengthen to full recovery at about 6 months. She can jog on flat surfaces, but he advised her not to do anything that stresses the knee such as light running on uneven ground or any sports. She needs to be careful about any twisting motion or sudden stops. She can run on a tread mill or track. Last night, March 27, 2008, about 4 1/2 months after surgery, after watching her run on the tread mill the physical therapist told her that he didn't think she would have many more therapy sessions left. She was beaming ear to ear. I think it will be several more months (maybe June) before she is allowed to play competitive sports. Her next visit with her orthopedic surgeon is mid May. I think she is starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. This has not been easy for her. I am proud of her. She went to every soccer practice and game after her injury and sat on the sidelines and cheered her team on. She asked me to coach her basketball team, even though she could not play and went to most every practice and game. She was very upset when the basketball season started and the reality of her injury hit home. I think she used this as motivation in her rehabilitation. It's amazing the number of girls we've encountered who have had ACL injuries. My daughter is looking forward to basketball in the summer and soccer in the fall. Thank you to eveyone who has posted on this website. It is appreciated. To those who are just experiencing this, take your time, listen to the doctor, and work hard in your rehab.

Jane
March 28, 2008 3:07 PM

I'm a 52-year-old fairly active female (mainly tennis and skiing). Tore my MCL and ACL and had some meniscus damage skiing Jan. 26. Had my ACL reconstruct surgery March 24 (4 days ago) -- allograft used. In the two months between injury and surgery I worked very hard on strengthing my leg muscles and I think it helped a lot. My Dr. said to put as much weight on as pain tolerated and I only used the crutches one day after surgery, walking with my brace after that. I have 90 degree flexation (using CPM 6 hours per day), did not experience too much pain (the initial injury was much more painful). I injured my left knee and drove today to run a few errands. Good luck to all facing surgery -- stay positive - a good attitude goes a long way!!

mike dennis
March 28, 2008 4:10 PM

Hi, im supposed to have surgery in a week....on the 3rd of april...about two weeks after that im supposed to start school again. im going to need to drive out to school. do you think i will be able to do it? how long is the initial revcovery?

Tina
March 29, 2008 9:22 AM

I had acl surgery a week ago. I had an allograft. It seems most people on the site did there own donation. I wonder if recovery is different because of the allograft?The Dr. tells me I am doing great but I feel like it will be forever before I am back to normal. My knee swells every time it is not elevated. The pain is like a toothache. It is not so bad, just annoying and neverending. I want to get on with things and when I do I find it ok at the time but later the pain is worse. Any advice. I feel like I just have to suck it up, and that wouldn't be so bad if I felt like it was going to get better. It was a comfort to read the other comments and not feel so alone. I have a hard time asking for help and this has put me to the test. Any advice on how a control freak can deal with not being in control? Good luck everyone!!

james douglas
March 29, 2008 5:24 PM

hello im 16 from grimsby i have ruptured my right acl and the doctor says its snapped in half i have booked my surgery for the 22nd may. I have an exam 11 days after my operation would i beable to sit and do my exam and also im off to florida in september will my knee be on its way to recovery by then. thanks for you helo

pam ouellette
March 30, 2008 8:50 AM

Pam here. I had my first visit with orthoped. doc...he read my mri, and determined it is a partial acl tear with no menscius damage. He recommended I get the swelling down, and physical therapy for a month, and go back to see him in a month. He indicated this partial tear can be treated w/out surgery. I am 48 this year..., and want to get back to my jogging 4 times a week. Does anyone have any comments to my docs. treatment that I could possibly go without surgery to correct this acl partial tear?? I just want to be able to jog again. What are the negatives to surgery if only partial tear? Thank you again. Pam Ouellette

Tina
March 30, 2008 9:52 AM

Hi Pam I had a partial tear. I am 38 and quite active. We hoped not to have the surgery. However one morning in the kitchen I turned and my leg did not, and I tore the rest of the acl. The problem after that was it kept giving out, and that hurts. I ended up having the surgery last week. I think the sooner you can get the surgery, the sooner you are on the path to full recovery without wondering if your leg is going to give out. The thing is recovery is hard. It is a lot of work and it hurts, but every day it gets a little better. Hope this helps. Tina

chris parsons
March 30, 2008 4:52 PM

im 1 1/2 weeks post op on posterolateral corner reconstruction plus acl tear i was just wondering if anyone felt any stinging pain on the outside, i have a synthetic ligament to reconsruct plc injury nd hamstring graft for acl i have 5 incisions one is approx 10 cm tht was for plc recon im on crutches for another week and getting stitches out tomorrow worst thing is sleeping i have to hang my foot over end of bed to release the pressure i did it in dec 06 but broke my leg at same time so had to have tht repaired first i feel i am now a stronger person im 16 btw 17 next month my knee has become less swollen now. another ting that drives me insane is getting changed nd showering hope to be playing in a year my surgeon worked on ben foster the england goalkeeper very lucky what should i expect from the physio work??? good luck everyone xx

Emily
March 30, 2008 5:29 PM

To Claire: I tore my ACL and MCL, and had surgery 5.5 weeks ago. I'm a chef and also on my feet for long periods of time. It's not been easy, but I took a week off from work, followed by another week of mostly office work and sitting, before gradually standing and walking around with a brace more and more everyday. At most 6 weeks I can finally stand for 8 hours of work, (though I'm very tired at the end..between that and 1.5 hrs of PT everyday). I'm 29, and was in good shape going into the surgery, though I went right into surgery 3 weeks after the skiing accident. The first 3 days post surgery were the hardest, and since then it's gotten easier everyday. My Physical Therapist reminded me that everyone heals differently and that there's alot of factors. Weight bearing is good for your bones, but it can slow down your recovery some when you're on your feet alot. I had a MCL tear in addition to ACL rupture, which changes a recovery. And, I quote, "Whether you want to think about it or not, age does affect your recovery" (this was said to me after I became frustrated that this 24 year old kid was showing me up!) The surgery is easy comapred to the PT afterwards. You hear it again and again, but you really have to stick with it or you're shooting yourself in the foot (or knee in this instance). I live in a ski town and this is a VERY common injury here. I've talked to alot of people who have been through this, and everyone, no matter what treatments or grafts their doctor's prescribed, they all agree. STICK TO YOUR PHYSICAL THEREAPY. It's the only way back to "normal" function. Every day, and more so, every week I see improvements. PT does work, maybe not as fast as any of us want it to, but it works. Whenever I feel tired or like skimping on my PT I just look at the picture of us hiking to the top of half dome in Yosemite, and remember how important it is to me to get back to that life as soon as possible. This "lazy" life isn't for me.

mike dennis
March 31, 2008 8:43 AM

how long can i expect to be on crutches? i am supposed to drive out to college about two weeks after my surgery...its a rather long drive as i live in virginia, and attend school in idaho. what types of problems do you think i will face? can it be done? i am in pretty good shape and have continued to excercise and strengthen my muscles. any advice?

Carrie
March 31, 2008 12:16 PM

hello everyone. I was wondering about the brace after acl surgery. I had acl recontruction and meniscus repair on march 11. Due to the meniscus repair I was unable to bear any weight for the last three weeks. I saw the doctor today and he said that I am now able to bear weight, and start to walk with a brace on my knee. I havent been wearing the brace, because I havent been walking, but am wondering what it is like to walk with that big heavy brace on my leg. My doctor says that i have to wear the brace for the next three weeks while walking. I wanted to know how long did it take some of you who have had the surgery to walk without crutches? Also, for those who are on their feet all day, how does the knee feel after long hours of being on it? I am required to stand at my job, and cannot forsee future plans of being on my feet for hours on end(I'm a waitress). I guess I feel like this because I cant even walk yet without the crutches. I was reading Emilys post about her being on her feet for long period of times at 6 weeks post op. That sounds encouraging! If anyone can give any input regarding the heavy brace and walking, it would be appreciated. I wish everyone a quick and healthy recovery.

Claire
April 1, 2008 4:31 AM

To Robin and Emily, Thank you so much for your support!~ it is 2 days before surgery, have to admit a little scared here! I did some research on my Doctor and so far everyone says he is the best , he comes out of Rush (Chicago) and is now in the burbs... I will sign on after the surgery and let you all know how it went! off to rehab now. Robin, you gave me hope, I am not one to sit around , best of luck to everyone here! Claire

Joe Taylor
April 1, 2008 11:48 AM

I had the surgery Tuesday the 25th and was walking without crutches 6 days later after meeting with the doctor. The point I'm making is, if there is no meniscus tear or puncture the pain is so much less after surgery. I too was very afraid of the surgery, all I had was flash backs to my Achilles tendon surgery which was a living hell right after the surgery. My doctor used the hamstring tendon, which after doing my research was the way I would have gone. Thanks to all who have written in, it takes away a lot of fear knowing what others have faced.

Robin
April 2, 2008 2:19 AM

Claire, Good Luck on your surgery, it will be fine, ACL surgery's have really advanced in the last 5 years. And you have a highly recommended surgeon in a big city. All I remember is walking into the OR rather scared with the anestesiologist and he asked me what is the next mountain you plan on hiking? The nurse instructed me to jump up on the table, the IV went in a vein in my hand, and I woke up 2-3 hours later in recovery. Unlike other surgery's I didn't even have any nausea, just a little dizzy when I stood up to get in the wheelchair upon leaving. I might even return to the office earlier than planned. Are you having a donor graft? Patella or a hamstring? Just curious. Let us know how it went.

Betsy W.
April 2, 2008 1:36 PM

I've been reading blogs looking for some input on how to address the migrating knee brace when I came across this site. To add to all the other bloggers who are older patients, I am a 48 yr old woman who tore a left knee ACL 10 years ago playing soccer with 8 yr olds. Over the years the knee has given out and I've had subsequent falls, one of which was in Sept. 2007. Thoughts and treatments have changed in the last decade and it was highly recommended by physical therapists, orthopedic surgeons, and my internist to have the surgery to prevent further deterioration of the joint and a potential need for knee replacement as I got older. I had my surgery on Feb. 14th, 2008. I opted for a tissue donation (allograft) rather than using my hamstring. I am in the medical field and felt very comfortable with using an allograft. Like many of you, I was told the most difficult/ painful days were the first 3-4. I only had mild discomfort the day after the surgery. Moving about was a bit uncomfortable the first week as all that pressure built up in the joint, but that soon went away. Ladies, use your Lamaze breathing technique from childbirth exercises- that does help! I stopped the percoset within a week and switched to extra strength tylenol. I had minimal bruising and virtually no swelling. I think the Aircast Cryo Cuff system kept swelling down tremendously. My complications came a month after the surgery when I developed blood clots- yes, one of the risks of the surgery that is listed on every orthopedic website and actually occurs in 17% of ACL surgeries. Oftentimes the DVT (deep vein thrombosis- medical term for blood clot) has no symptoms but I had calf pain. It felt like a muscle cramp and since my PT had changed a bit to include use of weights and hamstring curls, I thought the discomfort was due to that. A phone call with my sister who is an RN urged me to call my surgeon who scheduled a venous sonogram (ultrasound). This is a very easy diagnostic procedure, non-invasive, and one that saves many lives. From the radiology department, I was moved directly to the ER where I began Lovenox injections. Lovenox is a type of heparin which is injected into the abdomen twice daily, 12 hours apart. I was not thrilled to be self injecting, but had no choice- it's amazing what you'll do for your own health and welfare!! Anyways, the DVT put a temporary halt to my physical therapy so here it is, 7 weeks post surgery and I'm 1.) still in my brace - but I've found an inexpensive solution to prevent brace migration, more on that later 2.) just beginning to get into PT that will focus beyond quad sets, straight leg raises, and range of motion exercises 3.) using one crutch around the house and two when I travel outside and 4.) now on the anti-coagulant medicine Coumadin for the next 6 months to dissipate the clots and prevent others from forming. I am very fortunate to have grown children who helped immensely, a high energy mother-in-law who came for 12 days coincidently, the day the clot was diagnosed, and a great husband who has been very supportive. So, my solution for the migrating knee brace. Buy some of that cabinet liner that is made of soft rubber, kind of puffy, and grid like. One roll is fine. Remove your foam pads from the brace and use them as a pattern against the liner. Once you've cut out the puffy liner, baste to the foam pads and place back on the brace. My brace is a Donjoy with telescoping sides and removable pads so the improvising is easy. I don't know why these brace designers haven't figured out that the smooth foam against the smooth skin, means movement of the brace. This soft puffy stuff acts as additional padding too. So far, I've had no problem with odor or sweating either. I think the grid pattern allows the skin to breathe too. Anyways, I hope my comments help some of you who are contemplating surgery or in the early recovery stage. I would most definitely have this surgery again should it be necessary. It really isn't that bad. Plus, be aware of any unusual calf pain or shortness of breath as possible signs of clot formation. Do not hesitate to seek medical help should those signs develop. I speak from experience.

Stuart
April 2, 2008 8:05 PM

I just had surgery last week thursday 3/27. INital tear date was 2/4. I had the left acl reconstruct and meniscus trimmed. Used the hamstring graph. Firt night was pain like no other. It is getting better day by day, I am doing leg lifts and bending already. I have even walked with only one crutch. I am almost completely off my pain meds and only taking ibuprofen. I can bend to a full 90 degrees. I am a wrestling coach and train mma, so I know what hard work is like. It is difficult and tough work, but I know I will pull through to a full recovery. The hardest thing is when you are on your feet you get tired fast wlaking with the crutches, so I have slowed down considerably. I took a full two weeks off of work and hope to be back good enough to work week 3

mike lienard
April 3, 2008 4:32 PM

Hey everyone i do freerunning and tricking, which for those who dont know is like urban gymnastics... ive had knee pains in both knees for the last 3 years but thought nothing of them, after consulting a physio yesterday he reckons my right knee has a torn ACL.... I can walk, run, jump and flip with little or no knee pain often, and then sometimes, usually after a poor warm up etc they absoloutley kill and i have to stop. Do you advise putting off surgery and continuing my training by strengthening my quads? or should i get surgery now, the physio said it could make it more brittle in the long run? im very confused as to what to do and am scared of loosing my best talent and sport =( reply ???

mike lienard
April 3, 2008 4:32 PM

Hey everyone i do freerunning and tricking, which for those who dont know is like urban gymnastics... ive had knee pains in both knees for the last 3 years but thought nothing of them, after consulting a physio yesterday he reckons my right knee has a torn ACL.... I can walk, run, jump and flip with little or no knee pain often, and then sometimes, usually after a poor warm up etc they absoloutley kill and i have to stop. Do you advise putting off surgery and continuing my training by strengthening my quads? or should i get surgery now, the physio said it could make it more brittle in the long run? im very confused as to what to do and am scared of loosing my best talent and sport =( reply ???

Jennie
April 3, 2008 10:01 PM

To Mike, I am 2 weeks after my acl surgery and I am walking without crutches and able to go up and down stairs. Before my surgery, i kept my quads really strong. That has helped alot. I had to wait a long time for surgery, but wanted to stay active in the mean time. Basically that meant I made my knee worse. I would suggest that you go and do it as soon as possible. While you are waiting and swelling etc., you are making it more likely to get arthritis and meniscus damage. If your freerunning is your future, you want it to be a long future, not a short one if you completely blow out your knee.

Taylor
April 4, 2008 4:25 PM

3/7/08 Cheerleading tryouts: I was attempting to do my last just, pike, and when I landed, my knee popped..loudly. ...later that evening I went to the ER, and was told I would have to have and MRI.. [possible torn ligaments, is what the ER doctor said.] *gave me an immobilizer to wear. 3/11/08 1st Doctor appt.: said i needed to get an MRI. 3/25/08 Results on MRI: torn ACL and meniscus. need to have reconstructive surgery. :[ before surgery i would have to have 4 weeks-3 times a week, of P.T. because the ER doctor should not have given me the immobilizer to wear. IM REALLY NERVOUS ABOUT THE SURGERY. IM WONDERING HOW LONG IT WILL TAKE UNTIL I START TO WALK WITHOUT A BRACE OR CRUTCHES... ..OR EVEN GET BACK TO CHEERLEADING? ..ANY ADVICE?

Taylor
April 4, 2008 4:25 PM

3/7/08 Cheerleading tryouts: I was attempting to do my last just, pike, and when I landed, my knee popped..loudly. ...later that evening I went to the ER, and was told I would have to have and MRI.. [possible torn ligaments, is what the ER doctor said.] *gave me an immobilizer to wear. 3/11/08 1st Doctor appt.: said i needed to get an MRI. 3/25/08 Results on MRI: torn ACL and meniscus. need to have reconstructive surgery. :[ before surgery i would have to have 4 weeks-3 times a week, of P.T. because the ER doctor should not have given me the immobilizer to wear. IM REALLY NERVOUS ABOUT THE SURGERY. IM WONDERING HOW LONG IT WILL TAKE UNTIL I START TO WALK WITHOUT A BRACE OR CRUTCHES... ..OR EVEN GET BACK TO CHEERLEADING? ..ANY ADVICE?

matt
April 4, 2008 6:26 PM

taylor, i had the same thing...snowboarding---acl reconstruction and removal of the medial meniscus. if i were you i wouldn't plan on cheering this year; at least not anything too strenuous. i had the surgery and was in bed for about 7 days. finally got out and about around days 7-10. I was on crutches until about the 3rd week, which is a bit longer than most people i'm told. ii didn't start getting out normally until about the fourth week. it's been a little over a month now, and i'm walking around, with a minor limp. remember though, don't try to rush things, or else you'll just end up going backwards. physical therapy is very important, ice ice ice. all cliche comments, but make sure you follow what your doctor tells you to do. i also found it very helpful in googling "acl surgery", as it gave me insights into what my dr. didn't tell me. good luck!!

Wendy
April 4, 2008 6:46 PM

Hi. Had ACL surgery on the 31st and celebrated my 51st birthday the next day. Surgery went fine. They used my hamstring to repair my acl I also tore my meniscus and they removed about 1/4 of it. Apparently I also had some damage to my medial ligament and they shaved my knee...WOW. I have been using the cpm machine and using the rolled towel and doing leg lifts. Feels like that is all I do all day long. Knee tends to be a little tender after the rolled towel. I am wondering how long before I will be back at school. I am a school teacher and we are not allowed to have crutches. Any help...

k
April 5, 2008 12:18 PM

Hello all, I'm 48 and tore my ACL snow skiing in early January. I had ACL surgery March 13th. I'm pretty frustrated because I'm still in pain. I'm also frustrated because my knee catches and so therefore I'm not walking normally- to stiff legged. My PT says I'm on target but I sure don't feel like it. Does anyone have any words of wisdom?

Becky Watwood
April 5, 2008 1:03 PM

To John posted March 28 re: your 13 old daughter's surgery. Did the Dr. have any concern with the growth plate in performing the surgery? My son has ruptured his ACL and his Dr is recommending putting off surgery until he gets closer to maturity. We have concerns as he is so active in sports, snow boarding, wake boarding, motocross, etc. We are looking for a 2nd opinion from Doctors who have the confidence on the reconstruction surgery for teens. Thanks, Becky

Sara
April 5, 2008 7:23 PM

Hey everyone. I'm 19 and I am scheduled to have surgery May 8th. I tore my ACL and meniscus while landing a jump wrong snowboarding this past winter. It has now been 4 months since my accident. But yea so i am really nervous for this surgery in the first place and my mother wants me to not go under general anethesia and just get it localy. But i am already scared of the operating room as it is and to have to lie there for 2-3 hours awake during that I think I would go insane and freak out. I really just want to be put out completly with general anethesia. Does anyone have any advise as to which one, if any, is better? To be put under or just have it local?

Brian Smith
April 5, 2008 11:07 PM

Hi Becky, My daughter is 12 yrs. old and just had ACL replacement surgery on March 31st. Her X-rays showed her growth plates were complete, so it wasn't really a factor in the surgery. Here is a link that might be helpful to you: http://www.childrenshospital.org/clinicalservices/Site1173/Documents/Peds_Knee.pdf. Good luck!

laurie
April 7, 2008 2:34 PM

To K (April 5), I also tore my ACL early January skiing! Maybe we were on the same mountain! I had surgery Feb 25 and I still experience alot of pain. I'm 45, very active and continued to work out 4 times a week prior to surgery. I cannot fully extend my leg yet and PT has been working diligently with me on this! I think the pain thing is normal and the more I read on this site the more I realize how much faster I want things to go. I still take pain meds every now and then, in addition to tylenol. My words of wisdom would be to keep up with the PT. I am a Cardiac Surgery Nurse and PT works with my patients all the time. I have always respected physical therapists but I truly never realized how valuable they were until I needed them for myself.

DM
April 8, 2008 10:28 AM

All, It depends a lot on your doctor. I tore my ACL on Christmas day 2007 playing football with my kids. I had my ACL replaced with a portion of my hamstring on January 10. I was in physical therapy on January 11. I was back at work on January 14. I had physical therapy three days a week for four weeks. You have to make sure and do the physical therapy exercises everyday, not only at the physical therapist office but at home as well. I was walking with one crutch after about five days and was completely off crutches in less than two weeks. I am still wearing my ACL brace (most of the time), as per my doctor, but he has not released me to run, jump, or do any other athletics. I go back to see him on April 17 and I think he will release me to do some light jogging. Ibuprofen is good for the pain. After about two weeks the pain was minimal. It hardly bothers me at all anymore.

Ben
April 8, 2008 7:43 PM

Hey i had surgery on august 1st so it has been a while for me. I am done with Physical Therapy and have been on my own for about 3 months now without it. I have trying to run lately, just jog a few miles, but every few days i will feel my shin and it will be severely bruised. It is always right around my scar at the top of the shin, I am guessing this is from the impact of my leg hitting the ground, but i was wondering if anyone had a similar problem and how they dealt with it/how long it took to go away if at all. thanks!

Wendy Jonathan
April 9, 2008 12:42 PM

I guess not all doctors are the same. I went in yesterday for my post op appt. and my doctor wants me off the crutches in the next three days. I will continue with the acl brace in the locked position. I also will not start pt for 2 more weeks. Instead I have to do the cpm machine every day for 8 hours. I was at 100 degrees but it hurt for the first 1/2 hour so they said to scale back. I am at 90 now. I have to get back at 100 and stay there. Although the machine does go to 120. Because I am workman's comp I can't go back for 4 more weeks. Anybody that thinks staying at home lying around is fun is crazy!!!!!

Hannah!
April 9, 2008 6:45 PM

I am a competitive ski racer. On febuary 2nd I got hit recreationally skiing and tore my acl and meniscus both completely. Because my meniscus was torn all the way through the doctor chose to do 2 separate surgeries. February 15th I had the meniscus surgery. I can't walk yet. Only 75% weight baring. I am at 8 weeks. I will walk next week. But my acl reconstruction will use a piece of my knee cap. It is scheduled for May 21st. My next competitive ski season starts at the end of November. I am extremely athletic and I was wondering in anyone had insight about if I will be able to compete this upcoming year. I am nervous and would love some reassurance. Please respond!

DM
April 10, 2008 4:20 AM

Ben, Do you wear the brace when you run.

John
April 10, 2008 4:50 AM

To Becky. The doctor did review her growth plate with us. The orthopedic said a couple of times that the she was reaching the end of her growth, when he showed us the MRI. I'm not sure what the significance was. We see him again on 4/17. I'll ask and repost...John

Wendy Jonathan
April 10, 2008 12:37 PM

Surgery on the 31st of March and now the doctor wants me to walk without crutches. I am trying to walk with the crutches and my calf is killing me! I also can't believe how much muscle I lost in one week in my quad...the definition is gone!~!~!

Betsy W.
April 10, 2008 1:58 PM

K~ Don't get discouraged. The one thing I've gained from this site is that orthopedic surgeons all have different views on recovery periods and treatments post surgery. I had my surgery on Feb. 14th, 2008 and last week the surgeon said to continue using the crutches and wear the brace for all weight bearing activities at least through the end of April. That'll be 10+ weeks!! VERY different from those who walked without crutches 5 days post surgery. My ROM is improving daily, I have no difficulty fully extending my leg, and I understand that this may take 12 months or more for full recovery. I wish I could advise on the pain. I was very lucky and had no pain, swelling or bruising after surgery. Have you asked your surgeon or PT about massaging the site?

Theresa
April 10, 2008 3:58 PM

I had ACL surgery Dec 2006. I tore it Oct 2006, landing after climbing a 6 ft wall for the sheriffs dept. I was off my crutches in a week. The worst part was the 12 staples. And my scar is not the cutest thing ever. I had a cadaver to replace my ACl, they cut out a little bit of my meniscus and I have a 45mm screw in my shin, and a pin in my thigh. I am happy to be walking etc, but I still have constant pain on the front of my patella.. Anyone know anything?

Rob
April 10, 2008 10:32 PM

I had Acl reconstruction surgery on february 12 they have used a kadaver on me. I put full weight on it right of the gurney. I never used my crutches or any painkillers. It took me 4 weeks to get full extension and flexion. It's been 8 weeks know I am pain free and fully back to normal with the exception for jumping or running, no impact for at least another 4 months.

Claire
April 11, 2008 5:43 AM

Hi all, I am back from surgery, it has been a week now and doctor says 1 more week with this huge brace on!...have to admit this brace is the worst part , cant get comfortable to fall asleep. So I havent had much sleep at all. The pain ( real bad pain) afterwards lasted about 3 days. Now I am just plain board. therapy starts next week, but I have been faithfully using the machine the doc sent to my house to bend my knee. That really does make me feel better I use it 3 times a day for 2 hours. have been doing some light housework, dusting e.t.c. crutches and all!, doctor says I will be off those too next week, now that is hard to believe.....take care all....Claire

Wendy Jonathan
April 11, 2008 4:55 PM

10 days since surgery and now with only one crutch. Tomorrow my goal is no crutches. Laurie (April 7) You are so right about different approaches by doctors. Claire (April 11) is going to be off the brace after 2 weeks and crutches too! I know I will have my brace on for at least 6 weeks after surgery. I have gotten use to sleeping with the brace. Does anybody else get leg spasms when they do the cpm machine? I do it 3 hours in the morning, 3 hours at lunch and 2 hours in the evening. Hey Claire, I can relate. I have been doing wash and cooking while on crutches. It is amazing what you can do when you have no other option.

Claire
April 12, 2008 7:01 AM

Wendy! Yes the Doctor says no more brace, however, I think he may give me a much smaller one ( I hope) I cant imagine no brace at all . Mine is on my left leg and I am wondering if after the big brace comes off, will I be able to drive myself to therapy? its not far and I am tired of asking people to drive me around. As far as the spasms go, they dont happen in the machine, in fact that is the only time it feels better. the doctor wants me to get the bend angle up to 90 so far all I could do is 80 because he has the bandage under it so tight. My work just informed me yesterday that I have off only till June 19th, on the doctors report he wrote jul 20th. I am a flight attendent and I think july is more reasonable. But then again I just dont know . Too early to tell, sometimes it still hurts like hell! I am hopeing for the best and so sick of sitting in this house. I have never read so many books and magazines. Take care Wendy and I wish you the best! where did you have it done? Claire

Betsy W.
April 12, 2008 8:56 AM

Claire, I found that once the brace was completely "opened"- no restriction on flexion, bending the knee to get into the car to drive was fine. Unlike most of you, I am still in this brace except for sleeping. It doesn't bother me much because the graft is very vulnerable at 6-8 weeks post surgery and the brace provides good stability for the leg. The last thing I want is to blow the knee out trying to rush the recovery. Is the ace bandage on for a reason? To protect the portals? Or to pad the surgery site against the brace? Can you remove the ace bandage to loosen it up? Also, if you find the site 'hurts like hell', that's a signal that you may be overdoing it.

Wendy Jonathan
April 12, 2008 6:10 PM

Claire. I am in Palm Desert, Ca. I had it done at Desert Orthopedic Center in Rancho Mirage. 80 degrees was okay. When I got to 90 it was a little hard and now I am at 100 and it hurts initially for about 5 to 10 minutes and then I am okay until about an hour and 45 minutes in and then my leg spasms periodically. I think it is just tired. Pain for me subsided about 5 days in except for night time it stopped on the tenth day. I agree about being stuck in the house.AAAAWWWWWWWW! I think you should see if you can go on disability until July. I don't see how you could be ready to be on your feet like that in June! Where did you have your surgery done? Hang in there...Hey Rob- how old are you??? I have to believe you are young to have recovered that quickly.

linds
April 12, 2008 9:56 PM

hi, i was wondering if anybody could answer a couple questions i have. first off its been about a month and a couple days since my surgery and i still do not have full flexion back. i get this pinching feeling in the back of my knee that goes up my hamstring and down my calf. has anybody else experienced this? also i get this almost painfull stretching or pulling kind of catch feeling in the front of my knee bellow my patella. what is it? is doesnt happen all the time. its always happens when im going down stairs. it would be so great if somebody could relate to these problems im having.

Wendy Jonathan
April 13, 2008 6:37 PM

Linds- I had the surgery about 2 weeks ago and use the cpm at 100 degrees and when it starts I get the same feeling you are describing. Obviously I am not as far as you, but you are not alone. If it continues I have an appt on May 6th I will be asking about it.

Theresa
April 14, 2008 7:24 AM

linds, the pulling behind your knee will go away once you start striaightening it more. The catch in front of the patella is a bit of a mystery to me too. that is the only area where I have pain still . And I had surgery Dec 06.. I think its built up scar tissue. But I am not sure. I am still waiting for someone to answer that one for me. Everything else is fine, full flexion, but hurts when I fully staighten it.

Christy
April 14, 2008 9:50 AM

I had the surgery March 27th to my right knee and am also having issues trying to fall asleep with this brace. I usually sleep on my side but seems impossible with this thing on. I've been sleeping on the couch for the past two weeks. Any recommendations. Also going stir crazy, renting DVD's and reading. Can't wait to get back to work. Any recommendations about when to start driving?

Adam Kalsey
April 14, 2008 1:54 PM

The kneecap sits in a little groove. After sugery your muscles are two weak to hold it there and it slides around a bit. For me, this caused my knee to feel like it locked into place sometimes. It also caused a popping sensation when it would slip back into place.

MikeN
April 14, 2008 2:16 PM

Hey all, I had a full acl tear on March 9th. My doctor did not recommend surgery. I am 41 and fairly athletic, I snowboard, hike and dirt-bike. Did any on you consider not having surgery? My Dr said wear a good brace (custom Donjoy) and keep your leg strong so the muscles compensate for the lack of an acl. Any thoughts on this. MikeN

Betsy W.
April 14, 2008 5:07 PM

MikeN~ My injury was from playing soccer with 8 year olds over 10 years ago. Thoughts about treating these tears have changed a lot. At the time, the recommendation was to strengthen the quads/hamstrings to provide the support. Problem was is that over time, my left knee continued to "pop out" then slide back into place. In the last couple of years, I was very unstable with most lateral movement and had some falls (the knee felt like it was just slipping out- no way to stop it). I slipped last fall and strained the MCL and that's when the ortho PA recommended MRI to figure out why there was so much movement in the lower leg even after PT. He had a strong hunch it was ACL damage but needed MRI to confirm. Yes, low and behold my ACL was detached at one end. Making the decision for surgery was very difficult since I had been living with this injury for over 10 years and surviving just fine. BUT, EVERYONE I consulted- physical therapists, orthopedic surgeons, my internist- all recommended to have the surgery to prevent further damage of the joint and possible knee replacement in the future. I guess with your activity level, especially the snowboarding and hiking where lateral movement is inevitable, I'd recommend having the surgery done. Those braces are no fun to wear - they migrate and never seem to be in just the right spot, never mind how they may impede the enjoyment of the sport. Mind the surgery can be a challenge too- just read some of the others' comments. I expect a 9-12 month full recovery for myself. I find my surgeon is very conservative compared to those who the others have written about. I'm still using 2 crutches and in the brace for all weight bearing activity and my surgery was Feb. 14th of this year. I had no pain, minimal swelling and no bruising after surgery (allograft- tissue donation). I did have DVT (deep vein thrombosis) aka blood clots and that set me back a couple of weeks PT wise. Still, I am not having the difficulty with full extension (straightening) nor pain that others are having. I also did not use CPM (continuous passive motion) and yet have 125 degree flexion without pain or discomfort. Good luck with your decision~ Betsy W

Wendy Jonathan
April 14, 2008 9:49 PM

MikeN- Get a second opinion.

DM
April 15, 2008 5:20 AM

Hey Mike, I'm 39 and my doctor gave me the option of not having surgery but he said I would have to wear the ACL brace forever. He said if I wanted to continue to participate in athletics the best thing to do was to have the surgery. DM

Holly Marie
April 15, 2008 7:52 AM

MikeN, in the beginning my surgeon was leaning against surgery for the same reasons your surgeon mentioned (strong quad muscles) although I told him I wanted to stay active and at least run, mountain bike, do yoga, etc. However, during my last visit he is now suggesting surgery (it is on for May 24) as I can not get full extension yet (3 months since injury) in light of doing my exercises daily. My knee doesn't really give out, but I still can't walk normally, let alone anything else, it's still still and it still hurts. Has anyone else taken this long to get full extension? It's very, very frustrating.

Ali
April 15, 2008 8:44 AM

My daughter (age 15) tore her ACL 2 weeks ago. I am researching the options of using donor ligament or her own hamstring or patella. I am getting very strong opinions for and against each method. I am confused. Dr. says he does both. She is a year round soccer player and swimmer. Any advice?

MikeN
April 15, 2008 10:45 AM

HollyMarie, thanks, i'm going to keep an open mind and consider it as an option in a month or so depending on how I am doing. I am still just shy of full extention and walk with a limp. I still have a little swelling and a slight ache, but other than that I don't understand why I have the limp. Has anyone else not gone the surgery route?

Ram
April 15, 2008 11:28 PM

Mike, I had a full acl tear 4 yrs back playing soccer. Since I could do most low impact activities like biking, hiking etc I had decided against surgery. But since last year I really wanted to start running again and play serious badminton (i used to play for the univ team). Got my surgery done Dec 07 and now 4 months into rehab I am able to run again. Its a slow recovery process but I am hoping I'll be able to get back to active sports. I think its best to wait for a few months after injury and figure out what activities you can/cant do before deciding on a surgery. I am glad I got it done.

Claire
April 16, 2008 4:52 AM

Wendy and Betsy! thanks for the response, well I had the staples taken out yesterday (frankenstein leg)! oh well at least I have a leg! LOL. Anyway I just had the surgery 2 weeks ago and I am starting rehab today? it is so swollen but doc says that is normal and that it will remain that way awhile. also he says NO more brace, I cant imagine no brace at all like you said wendy, it feels like I am gonna blow my knee out again. Also the bottom of my foot is so black and blue. Do you guys Ice it? I am still on crutches and doc says I should be able to walk on my own soon. Can't imagine that either. The pain is so much worse without the brace. I ( personally) think I will keep the brace for awhile and Yes I dont think I will be returning to work in June. Work keeps sending me fed-ex letters saying YOU WILL RETURN to work no later than June 19th! what a joke...thay could kiss my A--! it's sad that after 20 years of service I am still just a number. Anyway, the doctor thinks all looks good , I just don't see or feel it yet..... well off to rehab and driving myself vicoden's and all....should be intresting...take care all Claire

Greeny
April 16, 2008 6:07 AM

First off. I think its great that so many ppl have posted a story. It makes it so much easier for me to post. Guess it also shows that these emotional feelings (very unusual for me) are shared by many other.... Anyways about me: Im 17 turning 18 fighting fit into physical sports mainlyy rugby league. A comman sport here in austalia. Then it happened first game of the season i tear my ACL (30th mar), didnt realise it at first and i just limped off iced the knee and thought it wud be just another bumpor bruise. i usually heal pretty quik and had similar injuries to like this before. Bad news seen the specialist and its stuffed? SO im booked in for MRI scans and Most likely surgery is to come in the near future .. Surgery does scare me a little but beign told i cant play footy for a year hurts the most!this forum has taught me that everyones surgery is different. I would ask for sum direct questions but i feell if i jus keep reading my question are answered in one way or another. But i will ask a few questions that are palying on my mind ? will movement/range ever be as good as it originally was? Does anyone know of any special treatments excersise, meds, routines, that boost recovery and the healing process? cheers

Greeny
April 16, 2008 6:12 AM

First off. I think its great that so many ppl have posted a story. It makes it so much easier for me to post. Guess it also shows that these emotional feelings (very unusual for me) are shared by many other.... Anyways about me: Im 17 turning 18 fighting fit into physical sports mainlyy rugby league. A comman sport here in austalia. Then it happened first game of the season i tear my ACL (30th mar), didnt realise it at first and i just limped off iced the knee and thought it wud be just another bumpor bruise. i usually heal pretty quik and had similar injuries to like this before. Bad news seen the specialist and its stuffed? SO im booked in for MRI scans and Most likely surgery is to come in the near future .. Surgery does scare me a little but beign told i cant play footy for a year hurts the most!this forum has taught me that everyones surgery is different. I would ask for sum direct questions but i feell if i jus keep reading my question are answered in one way or another. But i will ask a few questions that are palying on my mind ? will movement/range ever be as good as it originally was? Does anyone know of any special treatments excersise, meds, routines, that boost recovery and the healing process? cheers

Ali
April 16, 2008 6:36 AM

I sent comments yesterday. Will they be posted? thanks, Ali

Betsy W.
April 16, 2008 11:49 AM

Claire~ You are the one who knows your body best. If you feel more at ease and secure with wearing the brace, then wear the brace. The swelling is very common- do you have an ice system? The one with a tube attached to a cooler like device with a velcro wrap for the knee at the other end? I came out of surgery with this gadget and was instructed to keep ice water circulating 24/7. As for the bruising on the bottom of your foot, I have no thoughts as to what caused that, but ice is a good idea. Be careful with driving though- in New Hampshire is it against the law to be driving under the influence of any narcotic, even if prescribed. I was told not to do any driving while using percoset (sp?). And Claire, don't get discouraged about the job. Use this time to reflect on your life. When I tried to pinpoint my MD about returning to work, he said that when he had his ACL reconstructed, it was 5 months before he returned. During that time he reflected upon his practice and decided to go back to a smaller group rather than a large 10+ provider group. I guess I'm saying to use this time to really think about your job and your life goals. I would also imagine your company must have employee health department that would have to approve your return to work.

Betsy W.
April 16, 2008 12:01 PM

Greeny~ I can't comment on whether movement/ROM will be as good but I can say that 8 weeks post surgery I can fully straighten and then bend (flexion) to 125 degrees. The knee just feels stiff to me but that feeling IS decreasing week by week. As for exercises to prepare for surgery- KEEP THOSE HAMSTRINGS AND QUADS IN SHAPE!! The stronger those muscle groups are, the quicker you'll heal. I imagine you're receiving some PT now for the injury- keep doing those exercises, especially hamstring curls. You also have your youth as an advantage :-) Have you discussed your surgery? Will you use your own tissue or opt for a donated tissue? I had some fears about the surgery especially going under anesthesia then dealing with the nausea, vomiting, headaches. My anesthesiologist gave me all sorts of meds ahead of time so after the surgery, I woke up with no problems. I was clear thinking, able to communicate, and kept food down. Vast improvements have been made in this area of medications. Good luck~

Debbie S
April 16, 2008 2:48 PM

This site is really great and helpful! I tore my right ACL on Feb 24 during my black belt test in karate (which I passed). I started riding the stationary bike about 4 days after the injury and started doing physical therapy exercises about a week after the injury. I have not worn a brace at all. My range of motion is back except for full flexion and I am walking normally. However, the knee feels unstable and "gives way" when I am not careful. I just got back the results of the MRI which was "at least partial ACL tear" plus rupture of the medial meniscus. I am 45 years old and live in Sweden (although I am originally from the US). Unfortunately, they do not do the allograft operation in Sweden at all (which is my choice for operation), but I have the opportunity to do it in the US this summer. My physical therapist thinks that I might want to try getting the knee stable through PT instead of operation (since the MRI said "at least partial"), so now I don't know what to do. The most important thing for me is to be able to do karate again which demands a lot of quick twisting and turning, kicking, etc. Also, this summer (early June) would be my only chance to come to the States and get the allograft done. Anyone have any ideas or advice? Greeny- I would suggest bicycling for boosting recovery and healing. Also, specific strengthening and range of motion exercises which you can get from a PT.

MIKEN
April 16, 2008 5:09 PM

Ram, Do you wish that you had surgery earlier, or do you think it allowed you the time to better understand your options? The only reason I can see not to have surgery is the rehab, but I'm afraid of the 'pay me now or pay me later' senario. Were you also able to use a kneebrace and still be active. It has only been one month since by tear and I already went dirt-biking this weekend and am going rock climbing tonight. I'm far from 100% due to loss of strength, but with that exception my bad knee feels as good and my other knee with the leg-brace. If not better. I'm just concern about daily things like walking down the stairs or steping on a rock by surprize will tweak my knee out.

Betsy W.
April 16, 2008 7:16 PM

Debbie S~ Realize that a tear is a tear- doesn't matter whether it is partial or complete, it will not fix itself. Ligaments can not heal themselves the way bones, muscles, and tendons can. One can strengthen the supporting structures around the knee but it will never return to its original function. And, with continued "giving way", you increase the risk of completing the ACL tear and continued damage to the joint as a whole. I lived with that giving way feeling for 10 years and unfortunately gave up recreational sports that involved quick turning because of it. Even breaststroke swimming was uncomfortable. I opted for the surgery because the instability began to interfere with my everyday activities like gardening, home projects, and walking. I did have some concerns receiving allograft. My surgeon assured me of its safety and that the tissue is gender and age related (I was hoping that this 48 year old body would get a 21 year old part). I did spend some time researching health issues that may arise with transplants through the CDC and NIH websites. Though I was most concerned about transmission of HIV and HCV, it is actually bacterial infections and West Nile Virus that has caused problems most recently (2005 I think?). I have also read that for whatever reason, an allograft is a bit more vulnerable during the healing process. I have to admit it's kind of freaky to have parts that aren't original but also a blessing to know that the technology is there and families have made this difficult decision for the benefit of others.

Deb :0)
April 16, 2008 8:45 PM

Hi Greeny! I used creatine and protein powders, post-op, before and after my PT sessions. I found it to be very beneficial! I am 3 1/2 months post-op (ACL, lateral and medial meniscus). As with everyone else...strengthen those quads and hammies prior to surgery. It makes it much easier after the surgery. And most importantly listen to your doctor and your body afterwards!!! You know yourself the best, and your surgeon and PT knows the protocol the best. Being an active person, you will probably become anxious and want to move along faster, but be very cautious becasue you could start from square one again if you do too much too soon. Good luck!

tj
April 17, 2008 6:52 AM

Just had my ACL surgery on April 9th using a cadaver. I truly feel pretty good for 8 days post op. The pain never really existed except for the first day, I think this is the result of having a great surgeon. The only problem I had was waking up from the anesthesia with nausea and vomiting a few times. I would recommend keeping the knee elevated and icing as much as possible. I only used the pain meds to knock me out so I could go to bed(not easy falling asleep with leg elevated) I have had two PT appointments so far. The first session was a little tough, but got easier after a few sets at home. I don't think you need to be nervous, just get it done with. The one major complaint I have is not being able to do things on your own. You really need the help of friends and family! The other complaint is I was told I won't be able to drive for some time because it is the right knee. Again - friends and family help. Good luck to all Tim

Claire
April 17, 2008 7:13 AM

Betsy, Thanks again, you are so nice! I went to my first rehab yesterday and was amazed at how good I felt afterwards, they sent me home with a huge wrap around ice pack, feels great. they also tole me to use the brace when I go out of the house as that is my only stability. As far as work is concerned, believe me, I wont be returning until I can. The doctors and the PT folks all said my leg looks good ( haha I dont see it) but I guess the swelling isnt as bad as most that they have seen. how are you???? Claire

MikeN
April 17, 2008 7:41 AM

Ram, My last comment did not get posted so sorry if this dups out. Do you wish you would of had surgery sooner, did you have any problems with day to day activties over the past 4 years such as stairs or stabiliy during quick actions like dodging a dog or somthing like that, and did you wear a brace during the 4 years when you did somthing athletic like hiking or skiing, etc.. Thanks, Mike

Betsy W.
April 17, 2008 9:49 AM

Claire~ Glad to hear that PT went well! It's amazing what those talented professionals can do for us wounded ;-) It's a great feeling to be sent home with exercises to mend- one feels like they can actually contribute to the healing beyond just resting. You going to LOVE that ice wrap!! I had a GREAT session on Tuesday. I really feel like everything kind of came together, overnight! I was given the okay to get into the pool for exercises (though no aerobics quite yet). I've even been a bit non-compliant and been walking inside the house without brace or crutches. That's an odd feeling, I even felt a bit queasy though there was no pain. And to Mike N~ just a quick comment, beware of Daschunds that jump! Neighbors have two and when they would jump at my left leg, they'd hit right at the knee and it would give out. Getting into the minivan, stepping on a pebble or tuft of grass, even making a right hand turn pushing a loaded grocery cart in the supermarket caused my knee to slip. All this contributed to my decision to have the surgery.

McCracken
April 17, 2008 7:34 PM

This site was a great inspiration for me before I got my operation, so I'd just like to return the favour and post my own personal experience for anyone out there. I though I had originally jarred my knee playing rugby for my club and took a month out. We had reached the knock out stage of the cup by then and I was eager to get back, I played two games and the same injury reocurred. I took it as the end of my season, took a couple weeks out, went surfing in Bali with no problems whatsoever, came back home and then tore my ACL playing football (soccer) with mates. I'm 27 yers old, quite active and always thought this sort of injury would never ever happen to me. I went to the government hospital and the doc gave me an MRI. Turns out I had a complex "buckethole" tear of the inner and median meniscus (from the rugby) and no more ACL (from the footie). I was devastated and on crutches for a month awaiting surgery There was alot of mucscle deterioration, and I couldn't even flex my quads as the knee wouldn't straigthen/tighten enough. Anyways, it's now 2 days after my meniscus surgery. The doc managed to suture a couple of the tears on the left (inner knee) of the meniscus, shaved the tear in the back and cleaned up the rest. It hurt like hell for the first night, thank jah for the painkillers. I couldn't move my leg at all and the sados made me put on one of those forrest gump full-leg knee braces that hurt like hell before I left. To cut a long story short, its my second morning now since the surgery, i've just done my excercises for the first time (they hurt like hell, but it's a good hurt) and have immediately seen an improvement. I can move my knee now (control my leg) and am off painkillers. It's a miracle compared to 24 hours ago. The light at the end of the tunnel is already within touching distance. All i have to do is complete the excercises 5 times a day, ice five times a day and play loads of Xbox. I should be walking again within two weeks and will streghnthem my leg enough to get the ACL done within six months (not nervous about that anymore). i hope to be playing footie again in a year. What i'm trying to say is tht the fear is all in your mind, all you need to do is get through the first two days post op and then you're home and dry! Good luck to you all. And if you love sport then it's a no brainer - get the surgery done. P.S for anaesthesia, I would recommend spinal anaesthesia (it's similar to an epidural that pregga chicks get). It sounds scary but it hardly hurts at all when they inject you and there are no major side effects, compared to general where you'll be pucking your guts out for a day.

Cathy
April 17, 2008 7:56 PM

It's nice to read everyone's experiences with their ACL (and other) surgeries. I tore off my ACL in early Dec 07 and had surgery later in Jan 08. I wish I had thought to read up on sites like this. I was very nervous before I went to surgery. My knee cap broke during surgery so it was bad for a while but it feels much better now. I have never made it past 80 degrees bend and am now going to a large city nearby to get a second opinion. I'm hoping that the patellar tendon graft isn't too short. Would love to hear about anyone who experienced problems after their initial surgery and then hopefully great outcomes later on.

Debbie S
April 18, 2008 9:44 AM

Betsy W.- Thank you so much for the advice! I am going to go for the operation on June 4 and will definitely come back to this site to share my experiences. Good luck to all!

Claire
April 19, 2008 5:22 AM

Debbie S Just wanted to say good luck to you! My heart goes out to anyone who has to go through this surgery. Has been two weeks for me and feeling pretty good most of the time, the first three days was the worst, hard to sleep with the brace on so didnt get much sleep. Have to say, Betsy really helped me through, reading her comments on this site. Had my second rehab session yesterday, I feel so good right after, and always feel worse at night. This is a slow process but I am doing exactly what they tell me. Let us know how you are doing afterwards. And Betsy! you are an inspiration! thanks

Betsy W.
April 19, 2008 6:21 AM

Debbie S and Claire~ I'm glad to hear that my comments have helped. This is definitely a surgery/ recovery that varies so much with each individual and their health care team. I have to agree with TJ's comment about having family and friends to help. I distinctly remember having a "woe is me" crying moment with my 18 year old daughter because I was so dependent upon everyone else to do things for me- even simple things like bringing me a glass of water, meals, etc. These problems can be solved- I ended up asking my husband to buy a case of bottled water and leaving it next to my side of the bed. And having a nightstand filled with crackers, fresh and dried fruit, granola bars, etc meant that there was stuff nearby to eat. Having a small backpack like those sports cinch bags works great for carrying thing from room to room or up and down stairs. I also purchase a shower transfer bench online for showering which I am still using as I feel too uncomfortable with the slippery tub floor to stand. And let's not even mention having lots of comfy clothes like sweats and athletic pants. Yes, sleeping with the brace is no fun!! I am a stomach sleeper so trying to catch 8 hours on my back was horrible, especially the first week or so- not to mention the elevated leg. Reading helps me tire and so do relaxation techniques. I also reassured myself that this is just temporary, that things will improve, and that I need to be a patient patient ;-) This has also been quite a learning experience for me on what those persons who live each and every day with a mobility handicap must confront. I have been fortunate; cashiers have emptied my shopping cart onto the counter; complete strangers have pushed my grocery cart to the car and unloaded packages into the trunk, etc. It has been very humbling. And a quick word regarding anesthesia. I opted for general anesthesia because with spinal anesthesia your lower body is still without feeling for about 8 hours after the procedue. AND with ACL reconstructive, your surgeon will twist, turn and bend that knee in directions you cannot imagine (to verify the graft is firmly in place) all in your site of vision. No, I'm too much the control freak- not being able to move the lower half of my body for another 6 hours is too unsettling. And when it comes to post-surgery nauseousness and vomiting, there is NO reason for that to occur these days. I received IV meds prior to surgery to combat those side effects. Speak to your surgeon and/or anesthesiologist ahead of time and let them know of your concerns. Debbie S- will you be in the US for a bit after surgery? There are usually quite a few post op appointments with the surgeon. You'll probably want to be around for those OR be sure there is a ortho surgeon in Sweden who will take care of post operative visits- establish that before leaving. Good luck!

Janet Heidker
April 19, 2008 1:11 PM

To Claire and Betsy - you ladies are an inspiration to me. I am 55 years and will be having surgery April 29 - left knee, hamstring graft. I read this blog every day as surgery gets closer. I am riding the bike 5 days a week as well as regular leg strengthening exercises. I have full extension but poor flexion. Acupuncture helps this type of injury (for me anyway). I have never had surgery before. To all, I would welcome tips for mental preparation for general anaesthesia and ACL surgery, or information post surgery that will help ease the discomfort. I drive standard - how long before I can drive? To Debbie S, I am looking forward to your comments post op. Good luck!

Aging athlete
April 19, 2008 1:43 PM

Thank you for this website. It helped me in many of my decisions in going forward with my ACL surgery. So, on 2/18/08 I took a tumble skiing hurting my knee real bad, but thought I could get up and continue. I got up, went into a wedge with my left leg and heard the infamous pop. The ski patrol had to retrieve me as I couldn't put any weight on my leg then or for two days. I went to the emergency room where they suspected an ACL tear, ordered an MRI and gave me a referral to an ortho. The MRI showed a complete ACL tear and a small tear to the medial meniscus. The ortho recommended surgery. I wanted to wait to see if I could get by with a strengthened knee. The doc gave me a prescription for 4 weeks of PT but warned me that the tear wouldn't fix itself. I went to 4 PT sessions which were great as they got me walking again without a limp and brought me back to a full range of motion. In the mean time, I talked to everyone I could including my primary care physician to see what my options were. Everyone recommended the surgery, even with my age of 50 as they said without an ACL I would just continue to have movement in that knee causing further damage. On 4/16/08, (3 days ago) I had hamstring autograft reconstruction on the left knee. As it turns out, I also had repairs done on significant tears in both the medial and lateral meniscus and damaged cartilage on the femur was smoothed out. The surgery took 2.5 hours instead of the anticipated 1-1.5 hours. The doc asked if I had done something further to the knee since the accident as she wasn't expecting all this. The answer is no, so for those still considering the surgery, realize that I either somehow managed to do a significant amount of further damage in the the last 2 months, or quite a bit of damage did not appear on the MRI. I had surgery using a femoral and sciatic block and IV with Versed. I went home with an ice machine and a locking brace to wear for 6 weeks when weight bearing. I was prescribed Norco and ibuprofen. Everything seems to be going just fine. I had some pain on day two, but kept up with all the meds which worked. I am now cutting back to tylenol and ibuprofen. I had no nausea. I'm doing leg lifts and quad stretches in bed. For all my fear of this surgery (my first surgery on anything), it has been relatively easy.

Debbie S
April 19, 2008 3:08 PM

Thanks again for all the comments, advice, stories and support. It really helps to have an idea of what to expect before surgery and learn from the experiences of others. I feel positive in general, will be patient and listen to the doctor and PTs. I understand it will be a long, hard road- but I dream of being able to train and teach karate again. At the moment I try to remind myself to be glad for the small things every day- concentrate on what I CAN do- like being able to walk and ride the bike, having no pain, etc. Claire- I'm really glad to hear that you are feeling OK and that the rehab is working out in general. Good luck to you Janet! I'll be checking in to this site along the way to see how you all are doing!

Debbie S
April 19, 2008 3:08 PM

Thanks again for all the comments, advice, stories and support. It really helps to have an idea of what to expect before surgery and learn from the experiences of others. I feel positive in general, will be patient and listen to the doctor and PTs. I understand it will be a long, hard road- but I dream of being able to train and teach karate again. At the moment I try to remind myself to be glad for the small things every day- concentrate on what I CAN do- like being able to walk and ride the bike, having no pain, etc. Claire- I'm really glad to hear that you are feeling OK and that the rehab is working out in general. Good luck to you Janet! I'll be checking in to this site along the way to see how you all are doing!

Debbie S
April 19, 2008 3:09 PM

Thanks again for all the comments, advice, stories and support. It really helps to have an idea of what to expect before surgery and learn from the experiences of others. I feel positive in general, will be patient and listen to the doctor and PTs. I understand it will be a long, hard road- but I dream of being able to train and teach karate again. At the moment I try to remind myself to be glad for the small things every day- concentrate on what I CAN do- like being able to walk and ride the bike, having no pain, etc. Claire- I'm really glad to hear that you are feeling OK and that the rehab is working out in general. Good luck to you Janet! I'll be checking in to this site along the way to see how you all are doing!

J Voltz
April 19, 2008 6:07 PM

This is an interesting article. It was enjoyable and I plan to return and read more. Very, Very Nice

Sunshine F.
April 19, 2008 11:50 PM

I am now 4 days post op. It seems that each day is getting better. I can now get in and out of bed by myself and get around the house with crutches. It has been a difficult surgery for me, but I am just hoping that it will all be worth it in a few months. I had a lot of pain the first 2 days, but it seems to be getting better now. Sleeping with my leg elevated is terrible. When can you sleep normal? I have a few questions on how I should be feeling right now. I will be going to the doctor's on monday, so hopefully some questions will be answered. I feel like my leg is tingly and falling asleep. Is this normal?

Claire
April 20, 2008 5:55 AM

Janet, I was able to drive for my first PT appointment, I probably should not have, it was almost two weeks after surgery. The PT office is only 10 minutes from my house and my surgery was on my left leg. They have valet parking there so someone is there to help me in and out of the car. Today, ( Sunday) I am walking around the house without the brace or crutches! slowly~~ my PT wants me to use the brace while I am out of the house which helps with stablity. It still hurts at night so I ice it and the ice pack I bought from the PT office that wraps around my entire legs is the best. Also, finally sleeping without the brace is wonderful. I could sleep on my side now, ( with a pillow between my legs) I am sure this will get better and better every day as long as I listen to everything the PT"S say! It might be easier if I was younger! LOL.... Take care all, will check back to see how everyone is doing... Claire

Betsy W.
April 20, 2008 10:58 AM

Janet H~ Here are some suggestions for preparing for your surgery: 1. Be sure to have help the first week or so. I had someone for the first month: husband, 18 yr old daughter, college daughter, mother-in-law. Don't get me wrong, I am FAR from being a goddess!!! But my surgeon suggested I line up help for the first month and I did. 2. Accept ALL offers from friends, relatives and neighbors to drive you to appointments, prepare meals, run errands, etc. 3. Plan chair-based activities and have a list of books to read. I loved the Ladies No. 1 Detective Series. Easy to read, especially when on pain meds. If you have ever wanted to learn a foreign language, now's the time to do so. Get CDs from local library or buy them outright. And speaking of CDs, get books on tape/CD if reading is not your thing. 4. Netflix membership. Let's face it, there just isn't anything good on TV. My husband bought me a portable DVD player- that was wonderful to have. 5. Buy thank-you notes, stationery, and stamps. Refer to #2. You'll want to thank everyone who has helped. 6. I found a shower transfer bench, stool softeners (crazy to list but needed to use with pain meds), bottled water, and Redi-Bath disposable wipes to be vital that first week. At 9 weeks post surgery, still using shower bench. 7. Check with your doctor about obtaining a temporary handicap parking permit. With NH's near record breaking snowfall this winter, it was a relief to be able to park closer. 8. Accept the fact that healing doesn't happen overnight. You WILL need time to mend. We've become a society that expects/demands immediate results. It's just NOT going to happen. If you recognize this, any mental anguish will be minimal. As for driving a standard, listen to your surgeon. As I'm sure you've noticed, everyone's doctor is so different. Mine is VERY conservative compared to others on this site. He/she will give you driving guidelines. Good luck Janet- I'm looking forward to hearing about your progress.

Wendy Jonathan
April 20, 2008 4:14 PM

Betsy- Depending on others has been one of the hardest things for me. I am usually the one that takes charge and is the 'healer'. I do the same thing with the water. Every day when I go out the the family room to get on the 'machine' I make sure I have at least 3 to 4 bottles of water there. I also could help but start cooking for the family and doing wash 4 days after the surgery...Bad Me. Everybody got mad and said that I need to let others take care of me. I also think taking a shower is one of the scariest things to do now. Going in there without a brace and standing on one leg. Then getting out again with the crutches and praying that I don't slip! My cpm machine is being picked up this week...Monday it will be 3 weeks since the surgery. I am walking without crutches and doing my exercises religiously. Tuesday I go to my first PT session. My biggest obstacle right now is that workman's comp only wants me to have 12 sessions and my doctor has prescribed 18. From everything I have read from you guys is that PT is the most important part and I am not about to scrimp on it. It was good to hear what you had to say Claire. It makes my first session seem less scary. I was told take the meds before you go because afterwards it will be too late...nothing like scaring the stuff out of you!!! I agree this website has been a lifesaver. It is so nice to have others you can relate to. I do have a nephew who had the surgery last fall. He is doing great, but he is 22 and I am 51...I think 30 years may make a little difference in the recovery time. I don't mind since my doctor assures me that I will be 95 to 98 percent back to normal. I plan on skiing next January in Park City!!! Glad to hear about the work situation Claire. You stay your ground!!!

DM
April 21, 2008 8:27 AM

I went to my second follow-up this past Thursday. It was right at 14 weeks since the surgery. The doctor has cleared me to do some jogging on straight, flat surfaces. He also said I don't need to wear the brace anymore - woo hoo! I have been doing weights since I finished PT early in February - squats and leg curls. He said in another month I can start doing some leg extensions. He made it sound like I will be able to resume athletics after six months. My next visit will be July 10th which will be exactly six months after the surgery.

Claire
April 21, 2008 6:28 PM

DM! you give me hope!!!! I still feel like it's gonna blow out! walking around the house today without the brace...but it's only a little over 2 weeks since surgery. I am so impatient. wish I could go to rehab every day. But they say every other day... God bless all! Claire

DM
April 22, 2008 4:47 AM

Claire, I went to PT for 3 plus weeks but what helped the most was doing the exercises at home 2-3 times a day on days when I didn't go to PT. The doctor had me in PT the day after the surgery. I hated some of the exercises but doing them regularly paid off big time. My knee feels almost new right now. It almost feels too good. I have to remind myself that I am still under restrictions on running, jumping, etc. Good luck. Stick with the PT and good things will happen. DM

Claire
April 22, 2008 6:50 AM

DM? Quick question, How long before the swelling starts to really go down? I don't mind rehab, and it does make me feel better, but it is still so swollen (and ugly) that it is hard to move it the way PT wants me too because of the swelling! I ice it after I exercise it all the time, and I do my exercises on days off from rehab...like I said I have no patience for this at all LOL!....Claire

Betsy W.
April 22, 2008 11:14 AM

Looks like my responses are too lengthy to post so I'll keep this one brief. Claire, glad to hear PT is going well. BE patient about the swelling. During the surgery LOTS of saline was pumped into the joint and that does take time for the body to absorb. PLUS the body does respond to trauma with the production of fluid- remember how swollen the knee was when you initially damaged the ACL?? And, if you feel more comfortable with the brace, then wear it! Does yours have adjustable hinges for flexion on either side of the knee or it is strictly straight (an immobilizer)? If it allows for flexion, it will give you the stability you need.

Holly Marie
April 22, 2008 12:00 PM

I am very curious as to what types of exercises need to be done at home, and how often, after surgery. Also, how many times/week are the PT sessions. I have been doing exercises at home (at first twice a day and now once a day) and going to the PT (once a week, now none) since January waiting for surgery on May 24. I've already had it with the exercises and know the worst still awaits me. So, can someone give me an idea of many exercises you do at home (I currently do 6-7 such as leg lifts, tightening the quad, squats against the wall, etc.) and how many times you go to the PT. THANKS.

Wendy Jonathan
April 22, 2008 12:39 PM

Had my first Pt since my surgery 3 weeks ago. I can fully extend my leg and can flex at 95 degrees! I kept on thinking about what Claire had said about her first PT and mine was the same. I walked away feeling great and encouraged about my progress. She told me that the swelling will be there for a while. She said that doing the exercises she gave me would increase the blood flow around the knee which would bring down the swelling. She also wants me to continue with the cpm machine since she is not having me do any bending exercises at home. Holly- the two exercises she has me doing are pumping my foot like you do when you are putting in the brake and off. She also has me taking off my brace and sitting on the floor and flexing the inside muscle of my knee by extending my leg into a straight position. This makes the patella move up and down and this exercise is important for women. I am to do this for 30 minutes 4 times a day while watching tv and do it only during the commerical time. Next pt is on Thursday and I am going on a bike. Hang in there everybody!

Betsy W.
April 22, 2008 2:42 PM

Sunshine F~ I had tingling in the foot of the surgery leg the first week. I think it was because my brace was set at 0 degrees flexion (straight). After my first post-op visit when the brace was adjusted to 30 degrees flexion (allowing me to bend the leg slightly) the tinglling. In fact, once the brace was opened, the heavy feeling you might get when you get up and move a bit also went away. It was also 1 week post-op that I was instructed to put a bit more weight on the surgery leg. Expect your chest and upper arms to get fatigued and sore from using the crutches. I found some moist heat helped there. Also, be really diligent about moving the surgery leg- more frequently then not. I found "writing out" the alphabet with my foot was a good exercise. I developed blood clots 1 month after surgery so keep your self/leg as active as possible. Keep us all posted on your progress- it DOES get better.

Betsy W.
April 22, 2008 2:48 PM

Holly Marie~ I am 9 weeks post surgery. I go to PT twice a week and have been since week 3 (brief hiatus because of blood clot). I do my own regime 3x daily unless I go to PT then I only do my own thing once again. Beth Israel Hospital website has an outline for post surgery ACL physical therapy. Trying googling. SLR are straight leg raises- use ankle weights now if you can tolerate. Also, work on those hamstrings, the oft neglected yet so vital set of muscles. The AAOS (American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons) is another good site with some post surgery exercises. Start them now. Be sure to let us know how the surgery goes...

Janet Heidker
April 22, 2008 5:48 PM

To Betsy - thank you so much for taking the time to give me such helpful advice - I will follow your excellent suggestions. I visited my surgeon for my preop appointment today. I had my list of questions. Wendy - I asked him what my ROM will be if I follow my PT instructions faithfully - he said 100% - and I am older than you are! With constant rehab, 6 months before returning to sports again. 6 weeks before I can drive standard (I am hoping that will be negotiable - especially after what you wrote Claire , about driving.) He recommended the cryocuff machine but not the CPM machine. I know surgeons are different on certain issues. DM - I read your comments often to give me strength - thanks. He also told me never ever to do leg extensions again at the gym and I will always need knee pads for gardening, etc. I can live with that. I just wish I could kneel ! Counting down to next Tuesday..........

Wendy Jonathan
April 22, 2008 7:46 PM

Holly- I go 3 times a week for one hour for PT and I am to continue with the cpm machine through phase one of my therapy since the exercises I will be doing at home will not involve flexing the knee. Janet- Which graft are you using? Are you having the patella graft? I know that compromises the knee and that is why my surgeon doesn't do it. He said that I would have difficulty working on my knee if that was the graft I ended up having. I had the hamstring graft so I don't know if there will be limitations. I haven't been told that I have any restrictions regarding leg. My nephew who had the cadaver graft last fall is a football player and has been doing leg extensions at the gym after his surgery. I believe that my ROM will be 100 percent but since part of my hamstring muscle I will never regain full strength in my leg. I will be happy with 98% as long as I can hike, jog, and skiing in Park City in January.

Cynthia
April 22, 2008 10:34 PM

This info is wonderful. My surgery will be May 13 and I'm nervous but hopeful that next year I'll be running again and playing tennis. Like Adam, I injured my knee playing indoor soccer. I loved it but will probably be scared to play again after all this. Can someone tell me if I'll be able to shower okay in a full bathroom? We don't have a walk-in shower, only a tub w/shower. Will I be able to sit on the side of the tub and lift my bad leg over and in?

DM
April 23, 2008 5:01 AM

Claire - It took a few weeks for the swelling to go down. The PT had me ice it nightly. It was probably a little over a month before it started looking like the other knee again! Holly Marie - the exercises they had me doing at first involved quad contractions (pushing down on a pillow under the knee), heel and wall slides, and straight leg lifts. As I got further into PT, they had me doing squats, some type of machine where you sit and pull yourself forward with your feet, one where I had to balance myself with the repaired knee slightly bent, and a few others. PT was 3 times a week and the exercises were done 2-3 times every day. Janet - I'm glad I can help. I'm surprised he banned you from leg extensions. He cleared my to start them again next month. I still have a little pain when kneeling but it has almost gone completely - can't get out of it in church anymore! One other thing he did tell me was to never bend my leg more than 90 degrees when doing squats. He said this is bad even on a good knee. Good luck in the surgery.

Betsy W.
April 23, 2008 7:05 AM

Janet~ My surgeon also did not recommend the CPM machine stating that my ROM will be 100% and it is. Definitely use the cryocuff machine- I came out of surgery with it on and I think it really kept my swelling to a minimum.

Betsy W.
April 23, 2008 3:05 PM

Cynthia~ My surgery was Feb 14, 2008. For showering I invested in a shower transfer bench that I bought brand new online for $43- shipping was free. The bench has 2 "inside" legs that have suction cups and two rubber tipped legs for outside the tub. There is a back and handle for positioning toward the tub wall. The showerhead in this bathroom is on a hose which makes it very easy. My first shower was about 3 days after surgery, covering the leg with a large trash bag. I does take some time to get the technique down so don't try to shower before rushing off to an appointment ;-) Our home has 2 baths so husband and daughter use one and the full bath is for me. The seat, though moveable, may be a chore to move daily- perhaps family members can work around it?? I am still using the bench for showering, gradually spending more time standing than sitting. Our shower stall does not have anything to grab on to if I feel I'm going to slip or fall. Refer to my other comments to Janet for more suggestions in order to prepare for surgery ;-)

Theresa
April 23, 2008 4:06 PM

Am I the only one who still has pain? It hurts most of the time. But a lot after sitting for awhile.

Wendy Jonathan
April 23, 2008 6:57 PM

Theresa- My pt told me that the swelling and pain in sitting is normal because you are not getting blood circulating to your leg. I find periodically getting up and walking around helps with the discomfort. You can also do pumping movements with your foot which seems to help with the discomfort as well.

Janet Heidker
April 23, 2008 7:09 PM

To Wendy - surprisingly enough, I too am having the hamstring graft. My surgeon does not do the patella graft either for the same reasons - he still feels that my knee will be sensitive when kneeling. The ban on leg extensions is because the leg extension machine puts undue stress on the graft with any serious weight on it. (again, surgeons differ on this issue) He did not tell me I wouldn't have 100% strength in my leg due to the compromised hamstring, but there again, I didn't ask that specific question. Let's work towards 100% strength regardless! Going to pick up my cryocuff machine tomorrow!

DM
April 24, 2008 4:56 AM

Theresa - I still have pain sometimes. I stepped funny a couple of times yesterday and it started hurting me a little bit - nothing a few Advil couldn't knock out. Janet - You should be able to regain 100% strength in the hamstring. I've been doing a lot of leg curls to strengthen the hamstring and it is almost as strong as the good leg. The doctor did say I could do leg extensions but not until next month - 4 months after surgery.

Claire
April 24, 2008 5:37 AM

Theresa, I was just thinking the same thing this morning, some days I still have alot of pain, however I just had the surgery apr 4th..I dont use the brace in the house or crutches. I noticed when I walk around alot I am in alot of pain at night. it seems like 1 step forward and 3 back. Also yesterday after rehab it hurt, she really pushed on it and worked me pretty hard.

Betsy W.
April 24, 2008 7:18 AM

Theresa~ Have you spoken to the surgeon about your pain? If I've read correctly, your surgery was 18 months ago. Perhaps a visit with him/her may answer some of your questions about pain and its management.

Christy
April 24, 2008 10:12 AM

Hey all I had surgery March 27th so today is my fourth week post op. Just to let everyone know I have been going to the gym the days that I do not have PT and work on stationary bike. today I was able to start the elliptical. I have been using the functional brace everyday and still have a slight limp. It does get much easier trust me. I am counting down the days I can run again! The best advice is to work hard during PT and days off (not too hard) and ice at night. Good luck everyone!

Wendy Jonathan
April 24, 2008 10:54 AM

Claire- I notice that if I am on my feet for too long even with the brace my knee gets sore at night after I go to bed. I am a little scared about being without the brace. Today was my second pt and they put me on a bike. My pt told me that my biggest challenge is that I push myself and I may push myself too much and go backwards. It's hard, since I have barely have been able to get around since Feb. 8th. Already I am able to straighten my leg and now am at 105 degrees...I just want to be well! Obviously patience is not my virtue...LOL

Wendy Jonathan
April 24, 2008 11:52 AM

Janet- another great site for information about after surgery is Orthopedic Sports Medicine Corner: Guidelines for the 1st Week after ACL Reconstruction. Prior to the surgery I was extending my leg over my bed to try to get it as straight as possible. I was told that was important going into the surgery. Cynthia- I typically take a shower, but you can take a bath if you hang your leg over. You can also prop your foot at the end of the tub while the brace is on then take it off and turn on the water. After you are done drain the water and have the towel easily attainable and dry your leg off and put the brace back on. Good luck. It is possible...you learn anything is possible with brace if you put your mind to it. LOL

Betsy W.
April 24, 2008 2:19 PM

Wendy~ A trick I learned to increase flexion is while sitting in the recliner or any seat, bend your knees up and SLOWLY scoot down, gently increasing the bend. If the surgery knee is stiff, use the heels of your palm and work from the knee downwards. I went from 98 degrees to 125 in less than a week with this trick. When the PT commented I made such huge progress, I told him my technique. Another technique is upon waking or going to bed, lay on your back and pull your knees up, like in a fetal position. Allow your surgery leg to hang making sure to NOT involve the quads if you can. Just let the leg hang. The weight of the leg and gravity will increase the bend too. Good luck~

Betsy W.
April 24, 2008 2:27 PM

Wendy~ Those first few times without the brace are pretty scary. My surgery was Feb 14th so we are about the same post op. I felt queasy- easiest way to describe is trying to get your "land legs" after being on a boat. There was never any pain, so that was good. I've been going about the house without brace and crutches (Dr M, I hope you don't read these blogs). I have found the crutches are becoming a nuisance. And the brace too confining. The brace goes on when I head out, especially when in the yard or in the stores. The brace certainly alerts others around you to be careful and I think that's important.

Claire
April 25, 2008 4:05 AM

Wendy. You are so right about pushing to hard, I do that, I know its wrong, but I still do it. yesterday I vacumed the entire house...then iced my knee for about an hour. it's great you are at 105! it sure hurts to bend it up and then the pt pushes it more. They also told me not to over do it, but how do you tell an Italian to sit still??? lol.... Claire

Claire
April 25, 2008 4:11 AM

Wendy! One more thing! did your doctor tell you to keep using the brace while you are in the house? Mine said to take it off, and the PT said keep using it as it is my only stablity. I always use it when I go out. It sure is interesting how doctors and pt's vary . This is a great site.

Wendy Jonathan
April 25, 2008 10:31 AM

Claire- You're right about being a great site. My doctor still has me wearing the brace all the time. I see the doctor again on May 6th although I don't think the brace is coming off then. He may unlock it although my pt says that in phase 1 the goal is to start building the muscles on the leg without any strain. I figure I have at least another 3 to 4 more weeks...but who knows. Just like you said doctors vary and what I think is based on what I read from others. I know what you mean about the pt bending it more. They ask you to tell them when it hurts then they bend it a little more...must be sadistic to be a pt...lol

Wendy Jonathan
April 25, 2008 10:31 AM

Claire- You're right about being a great site. My doctor still has me wearing the brace all the time. I see the doctor again on May 6th although I don't think the brace is coming off then. He may unlock it although my pt says that in phase 1 the goal is to start building the muscles on the leg without any strain. I figure I have at least another 3 to 4 more weeks...but who knows. Just like you said doctors vary and what I think is based on what I read from others. I know what you mean about the pt bending it more. They ask you to tell them when it hurts then they bend it a little more...must be sadistic to be a pt...lol

Peter
April 27, 2008 2:07 PM

Hi everyone. I tried to post earlier but not sure it worked... anyways. I had surgery April 21. I'm still sore at night and in the morning. Using the CPM 6 hours a day and up to 60 degrees. My case is a little different though, as I also tore my Lateral Collateral Ligament (very very rare). (I had that reconstructed in November. It totally sucked as I was locked in full extension for 6 weeks and had to sleep in my brace for 3 months) I teach High School math and I feel like I'm wayy to sore to go back to work exactly 7 days post-op acl surgery. I didn't expect to be this sore after a week. For some reason, my incisions are killing me. I looked at them and my fiance did too, but they look only a little reddish and I don't have a fever. I've basically beenon my couch all week. Should I be up more? Do you think going back to teach tomorrow is too early? take care... Peter

Janet Heidker
April 28, 2008 2:07 PM

Just thought I would post a message before my surgery tomorrow morning. I will post again when I can get downstairs to the computer! Wish me luck, I am sure it will go well and the "happy" pills (Vicoden) will get me through the tough times - if they don't, there is always a good glass of wine! Cheers, Janet

Betsy W.
April 28, 2008 4:49 PM

Janet, best of luck with tomorrow's surgery! I'm sure you'll do just fine- you have all of the advice from this site PLUS the thoughts and wishes from everyone here. Remember NOT to push yourself and take it easy the first week.

Wendy Jonathan
April 28, 2008 6:08 PM

Good luck Janet! I know all will go well. Everything is downhill from this point on. That is not to say PT is a piece of cake and you will be walking like a pro tomorrow. But you are now going to be on the road to recovery. Let yourself be pampered by letting your family and friends take care of you. Most of all don't push yourself those first couple of days. Let us know how you are doing as soon as you are able. By the way, I had virtually no nausea and I think it was because I ate very lightly. I had those individual applesauces and usually a piece of bread and some fat free cheese. I also recommend drinking lots of water. You will get dehydrated very quickly. It must be the medication from the surgery. I always had at least 2 to 3 bottles by my side. Hope to hear from you soon.

Debbie S
April 29, 2008 12:34 PM

Hi Janet. Hope all went well with your surgery. Looking forward to hearing how you are doing.

Wendy Jonathan
April 29, 2008 3:52 PM

Peter- I am a 5th grade teacher and I had my surgery on March 31st. I still have not returned back to work. I tore my acl in a teacher vs student football game so it was covered by workman's comp. Although, that still wouldn't have made a difference since teachers in my district are not allowed to use crutches on campus and I wasn't wean off my crutches for the first 2 weeks and I was using the cpm machine 6 to 8 hours a day for the first three weeks. My doctor wanted me at 100 degrees by my first post op appointment...ouch! My brace is still in a locked position and last week I started my 1st pt session. I know that my knee gets really sore if I sit for any length of time and also if I want for any length of time. Quite honestly I think going back to school tomorrow is way to early. People don't realize how much we are on our feet as teachers and you will be really sore and swollen. I know that yesterday I had my pt session at 4:30 and it was more painful than the previous ones and I think that was because it was swollen by the end of the day. I have to believe that your previous injury makes your recovery a little longer than the rest of us. Was your injury on campus? Also are you still using crutches? If you are, check with your district to see if they have the same policy. My doctor is pretty aggressive yet I don't think he is going to let me return to school until the end of May. Good luck if you return to school and keep us posted.

Betsy W.
April 29, 2008 5:26 PM

Peter~ Welcome to the world of ACL recovery!! As you can see from this site, all surgeons have different views about returning to work. My surgery was Feb. 14th and I teach VERY part-time and still have not gone back to work. You may also want to check the school's policy about crutches, many do not allow teachers to use them for safety reasons. Your incisions are probably sore as the skin has begun to heal itself. The nerve endings are responding to the cutting. My incisions did turn red, and then a purple color, and are now fading to a purply gray. If you notice any pus or become feverish, call the doctor. He may have prescribed an antibiotic post surgery as a preventative. And keep the ankle moving as well as doing those quad squeezes- I ended up with blood clots 4 weeks post surgery- talk about a set back! Good luck!!

DM
April 30, 2008 4:19 AM

Not too much water though. I drank a lot of water when I got home and ended up going to the restroom about 5 times during the night! That was not an easy task either with a nerve blocker in your leg and being on crutches!

Betsy W.
April 30, 2008 11:42 AM

Just back from the surgeon with great news- the brace can come off for about the house activity!! Still need to remain cautious when out in public or on unstable surfaces. After 10 weeks with this apparatus, I am NOT going to miss it! Stability is great, full ROM has been attained, and I've been reassured that the largest scar will gradually spread out and flatten. Physical therapy will continue for another 3-4 weeks with focus on improved gait and walking without limp. I hope this news is encouragement for all of you who have just had surgery or are in the beginning phase of rehab.

Claire
April 30, 2008 12:12 PM

Good luck Janet, remember the first 3 days are the hardest....god bless! Claire

Sara
April 30, 2008 11:17 PM

so the count down begins. i have a week left till my surgery. AHHHH!!!! i'm really nervous for it but ready cuz i am sick of my knee. and i'm sure you all know what i am talking about. but yes....so is there any thngs i should know or do now that it it so close? Janet, I hope all went well!!!!

Betsy W.
May 1, 2008 10:50 AM

Sarah~ If you refer back to my April 20th response to Janet about preparing for the surgery, you may find some helpful hints. As Claire noted, the first 3 days are the hardest and do take that first full week to rest. Your body does need to heal itself so be sure to give it the time.

Peter
May 1, 2008 2:35 PM

Wendy and Betsy... Hi. I actually did go back on Wed. so it was exactly 9 days post op. I'm still on crutches, so I'm not sure about the district's law on crutch use. I had my first post-op appt (not including the dressing change) today. He said it looked great. He wants me to continue with CPM until I'm at 90 degrees and start PT ASAP. They took the staples out today and shortened me brace. I can also now sleep with out the brace (yahoo!!!!). He also wants me to wean myself off crutches as soon as I feel confident. My quad atrophied a little, so I'm going to start putting more weight on it with crutches. To anyone out there worrying about ACL surgery.. it isn't bad. I've had both done now and wouldn't have done otherwise (I play a ton of soccer(played in college), and I ski/board/etcetera... Also, don't be afraid to take meds (percs/vicoden) to help with the pain. Just be careful. This site is a great help!!!

Wendy Jonathan
May 1, 2008 6:22 PM

Sara-Make sure to strength your weak leg as much as possible. Once you have the surgery much of that muscle will disappear. Also try to make sure that you straighten your leg as much as possible. I was told by my doctor that the more you can straighten it before surgery will have a affect on how well you will be able to straighten it after. I was able to straighten it entirely...but I was able to after 3 weeks of surgery and I know it was because of all the effort I put in to getting ready for surgery and my recovery. Good luck...surgery sounds a lot scarier than it is. I feel 100% better just knowing that my knee is now fixed and I don't need to pamper it like I use to do. By the way my doctor had me going to the gym and work on the bike at least 45 minutes a day. I think that was a great thing to do for my muscle building prior to surgery. Betsy- Kudos for no more brace. I can hardly wait, yet I am also scared to death for the first day. Thanks for all your contributions. They really have been helpful. What grade do you teach...I teach 5th...or at least I did...LOL

Lars
May 2, 2008 3:57 AM

I had my surgery April 8th (they used my hamstring for reconstruction). First week was very painful every time I lowered my leg it would throb like crazy. I went to work April 16th and 17th had to sit through meetings all day, got tired easy but getting up and around made my knee feel amazingly better. Crutches were gone by day 10. Had to travel for work April 21st thru 25th. Not to bad but stayed with the PT plan. At 3 weeks saw the Dr. he told me to STOP limping and make a conscious to stop favoring my repaired knee. ROM and the evil PT is still painful but I can get to 0 and 125 and still working hard. Good luck my Dr. said weight bearing as tolerated and it made mine feel much better, I was pretty much full bearing at about 8 days.

Claire
May 2, 2008 5:19 AM

Lars! you are amazing! you had ACL surgery? you must be in great shape and young! it is almost 1 month since mine I am walking without crutches or brace but if I over do it I pay for it at night. going to rehab 3 times a week and you are right, it feels better when I move it. Doc says I cant work for 2-4 months, but I am a flight attendent and on my feet for hours. stairs are getting a bit easier now too, lots of ice at night, and finally off of pain meds. take care all! Claire

kaz
May 2, 2008 5:59 AM

I had my surgery on Apr 9th. First two weeks were really bad. I can now bike for 15 mins and walk with out limp. Is there a easier way to get full extension?

Wendy Jonathan
May 2, 2008 7:54 AM

Claire - Sara and Kaz must be much younger than us...LOL. Kaz- are you putting a towel under your ankle and letting gravity straighten it for at 20 minutes 3 to 4 times a day? My doctor recommended it and it really helped. I also hung my leg ---past my knee---over my bed while I was on my stomach and did that as long as I could stand. Finally I made a point of periodically pushing my leg back straight when I was standing. Good luck you guys seem to be doing great. Claire- good to hear that you have a reprieve from work. I was really wondering how you were going to do that! Well off to pt!!!

Lars
May 2, 2008 12:34 PM

Yes I had acl surgery. I am a runner and had full ROM before surgery which I think helped for postop. My Doc says 4 more weeks of wearing the brace. My limp is pretty much gone. But Kaz I think the only way to full extension is painful I am about 2 or 3 degrees from full but that last little bit is difficult. The worst part is not sleeping well with this brace at night. Kaz are you on the bike with no resistance? I can do mine without resistance, and just using it to help with ROM.

Betsy W.
May 2, 2008 6:47 PM

Kaz~ When you have your leg up, don't put anything under the knee that makes it bend, like a pillow. I also found that wearing a sneaker and straightening the leg on a hard surface (not the bed) helps with extension. The small 'lift' of the heel of the sneaker gently allows the knee to extend. You could also try placing a small pillow under the heel.

Deb :0)
May 3, 2008 1:39 AM

I am 4 months post-op now. Doc just cleared me for working the floor at work (I work in a detention facility), but he still won't let me jog/run until next week. I have been light duty at work since Nov. 1st (surgery Dec. 21st), so this is a HUGE milestone for me! He is being very cautious since I had so much damage to my knee by the time I got to him, but now I feel like I am finally reaching the light at the end of the tunnel. It has been a long road, but definitely worth it! My knee pain was gone by day 3 and now, into month 4, I feel stable and confident moving around. My advice is to really stay on top of your PT. It will be the difference between an easy and a difficult recovery. I only go to PT one day a week now, and I go to the gym 3-4 other days during the week. It seems strange squating and doing the leg press with such light weights, but I do not want to push it too fast too soon and end up back at square one! Good luck to those of you just starting off in your recovery and to those getting ready for the surgery. I think that it was the best decision, in order to gt my active lifestyle back.

Brian
May 3, 2008 3:51 AM

Hi all. I had acl urgery on 24 April. I was wondering if anyone could tell me when they think I may be off crutches. I returned to work on the 28th (I am a teacher but we are allowed crutches). I can not really put weight on my leg yet ... is this normal. My surgeon has not really given me too many fatcs and my first appointment with him is only next week. Any advice would be seriously appreciated...thanks

Claire
May 3, 2008 7:16 AM

Brian, I think you went back to work too soon! not even a week! I wasn't putting weight on my leg for 3 weeks, its been a month and haven't used the crutches for about a week or the brace, which I really should still be using for stability while I am out of the house . I could tell when I over do it , at night it still gets swollen so I ice it every night. I know what you mean about the doctors not saying much, listen to your PT..and do not miss any appointments with them..they are pretty smart. best of luck Claire

Adam Kalsey
May 3, 2008 8:15 AM

Claire, I was working about 3 hours after my surgery. So really, how soon to come back depends on the person and the job. I manage a software development company, so I was able to work from home from the couch. No standing and no waling required.

Chauncey
May 3, 2008 9:19 AM

I'm 8 days out (Apr.25) and just found the website. Wish I found beforehand so I would've had a beter idea how to treat my leg - I wasn't wearing the brace much, now I understand that was a bad idea. Had to start over on the fourth day. Did or does anyone sleep at night on the CPM? I nervous to try it. And does anyone have an easier way to get DuraPrep off? I'm using alcohol and it's like scrubbing a rent-house toilet - won't come off! The most painful part for me was using the toilet constipated on hydrocodones - take stool softeners and don't let the moron at the drug store tell you that you need laxatives - when I get walking again, I'm having a talk with that SOB.

Chauncey
May 3, 2008 2:31 PM

Whoops, I almost forgot to share a bit of good news (at least it was good for me) for people scared of or are going through the "2nd Night" pain when the nerve block wears off... again, this worked for me, (DISCLAIMER: it may not work for anyone else) and, I asked my neurosurgeon friend if it was safe to do (PLEASE: ask your Doctor before you go for this) ... I was given Hydrocodones as meds before my surgery from the Doc - and I knew, from a previous MCL tear, a broken coccyx and a severe Turf Toe incident, that if this pain closed in on anything in the "8" range I'd probably get more relief from chomping on my brown leather belt ... anyway, I'd read an article about Fibromyalgia patients taking Ambien as a straight-up pain reliever for sleepless their nights - and the Doc had told me I'd be wanting the Hydros instead of my idea of doing straight Aleve to curb this pain that would come ... ... alas, I asked my N.S. friend what he thought about me trying one of these Ambiens out and he told me, "no problem" and to still take two 10mg Hydrocones with the 10mg Ambien (nothing higher on either side; but it would be fine since Ambien is non-narcotic). So I did it that 2nd night, and I'll be honest, I ended up taking two 10mg Ambien because the one didn't help me to sleep, I was so damn anxious waiting for the nerve block to drop me off at the curb leaving in a foreign neighborhood without so much as some pocket change to rustle up a single of malt liquor. Anyway ... So here's what happened, the Ambien lit me up pretty good and it's safe to say I was pill-drunk - drunk, but still feeling the block start to wear off. So then, the pain came - it was like two dwarves were at the foot of my bed putting on welding gloves before they came at me with their Bic lighters - each of them working diligently at both sides of my knee ... But here's the catch ... it was going on and I could feel it ... but it was surreal. I didn't realize how looped I was until a friend texted me and asked how I was. I called him laughing about two dwarves at the foot of my bed with the gloves and lighters and all. I will say that the Ambien did not help out with the pain I experienced with the story above this. Sorry I rambled, but what do you want me to do? I've got 45 more CPM minutes left. I truly hope this method can help anyone else who's afraid of the "2nd Night" or looking for relief from it.

Claire
May 3, 2008 3:05 PM

OMG Adam, are you hiring? LOL....I wish I could go back to work. I have been flying the friendly skies for many years so I am used to leaving town at least once a week for a few days! I am going crazy being home... Claire

Jodi
May 4, 2008 6:24 AM

Hi all...Any input would be awesome. I was injured at work on April 21st, believe it or not, all I did was step off a ladder, An MRI was performed immediately at the hospital and it showed that I have a complete tear of the ACL, a horizontal tear of the Meniscus and a strained medial. I have not seen the surgeon yet, couldn't get in until the 28th of May, but I'm very nervous. They fitted me for a brace already which I wear when I leave the house. I am supposed to be using crutches at all times, but have trained myself to walk around the house without the crutches...I know, probably not a good idea. My job is strenuous, I am a construction laborer. I do alot of going up and down ladders, kneeling, and physical work. I am skeptical as to whether I will ever be able to do this work again. I would like anyone's opinions, input, info, etc... I'm a 44 year old woman, and I'll admit, I'm kinda scared. Not looking forward to the pain everyone is describing post op. Last week I tried a vicoden as my knee was aching badly in the evening. I got naseated and woosy, and itched all over... could this be a sign that I am allergic to the vicoden? That makes me nervous because I am a total whimp when it comes to pain. And Chauncy... Ambien is a narcotic... unless you were given the Ambien CR, which is not narcotic and nowhere near effective as the Narcotic form of Ambien. I WILL be asking my doc for a script of Ambien. I took it for years because I am a chronic insomniac. BUT...for further reference, 10mg is plenty if you take it on an empty stomach. You must take it with the intent on going right to sleep because if you fight the effects you can hallucinate and the effects wear off within a half hour of being absorbed into your blood stream. It is a wonderful sleep aid if taken properly. Thanks all for listening and PLEASE PLEASE let me know what I am up against!

Jodi
May 4, 2008 7:03 AM

I had one more question I forgot to ask... What about driving a car? Anyone know pre or post op, when I will be allowed to drive. I live in Maine and You really have to drive a distance to get anywhere! Thanks a bunch.

Janet Heidker
May 4, 2008 7:04 AM

Hi there everybody! Janet is back - 5 days post op and coping well. This morning was the first time I was able to hobble down the stairs on crutches and brace to the computer - first of all, a big thank you to all who personally wished me well and gave me excellent advice - I know your thoughts were with me - and also I am grateful to everyone who posts here so I can learn from your experiences. Chauncey - I laughed out loud for the first time after reading about the dwarfs and Bic lighters! Surgery went well - ACL left knee, hamstring graft - no meniscus damage - only the stump of the old ACL in the way preventing me from bending my leg fully. He scraped that away. I had the nerve block and all was well until it wore off about 5:00 am next morning. I did not sleep more than 2 hours first night waiting for the pain to kick in, and sleeping on my back with my leg in a brace is so uncomfortable. I took percocet when the "dwarfs with the Bic lighters" kicked in, and took it religiously every 4 hours after for the next 2 days. Pain was not as bad as I was expecting - took the last percocet Friday morning. No meds at all now and no pain. Yes, it is painful when you put that Frankenstein leg on the floor and the blood rushes down it - man, that really wakes you up! Knee is not major swollen - I have yellow bruising down both sides of leg, and black and blue bruises at back of the hamstring. Strongly recommend the cryocuff water therapy gizmo. Very soothing. Had my first shower Thursday without the brace on and had a shower seat so I wasn't worried about falling. I took the crutches in the shower as well and had someone to help me out. All went well. Just taking it easy now I am "over the hump" and content that all is downhill from here. I am doing my very limited exercises - ankle pumps up and down and quad sits. Had my first glass of wine last night..................... my reward for surviving my first surgery! I will keep you all updated - Cheers, Janet

Ashley
May 4, 2008 8:45 AM

I am 24 years old...25 on Thursday (great early bday present!)...I just had ACL Reconstructive surgery on my left knee on Friday using a cadaver tendon. Everyone's info has been very helpful. Mine was extremely painful and I had to stay in the intial recovery room for an extra hour because tears were streaming down my face I was in so much pain. They gave me a few double doses of that demoral shot and it wasn't helping. Also my left foot turned purple and was extremely cold. My foot got its color back, however two days later its still cold to the touch! I was wondering if anyone else experienced this problem...yesterday my chest started hurting very bad. It sort of feels like there is a weight on it and it hurts to breathe and I'm having a lot of sharp pains. I read something about blood clots that can be caused with leg surgery. If anyone has experienced can you please share your symptoms and what you did? THanks!!

Betsy W.
May 4, 2008 11:30 AM

Hey Janet, glad to hear the surgery went well and that you've got your pain managed with wine and cryocuff ;-) Sleeping with the brace is a bit difficult- try elevating, if you're not already, AND read until you are exhausted. That helped me. And a glass of wine will help you too! Keep those ankle pumps going- try "writing" the alphabet with your foot for a change. You must keep the blood flowing to avoid blood clots. Keep us updated!!

Sandy
May 4, 2008 7:18 PM

I tore my medial meniscus in January and this past February had a 70% of it removed (arthroscopic). I had an ACL tear on the same knee back in 1980 (which was repaired at the time). The knee has been functional and mostly stable over those 27+ years, but would slip out occasionally as the tendons relaxed. I hadn't been doing as much strengthening over that time, except the year immediately after surgery. As I have recovered from the meniscus surgery, I followed everything the surgeon and the PT said and really was diligent about the exercises. The PT told me I had a long way to go on the hamstrings but that I was doing well, so I am on my own. Last week my knee gave way side to side and now seems very unstable and somewhat painful on the medial side of the joint (although nothing swelled). Do I just need to show patience and hope that more strengthening of the hamstrings will provide the needed stability? It's hard to walk any distance and I'm concerned that my outdoor lifestyle is out the window...any thoughts? Knee replacement time?

Edward Eaton
May 4, 2008 8:47 PM

Surgery is Tuesday am for a medial meniscus tear and acute tear of the ACL which occurred two years ago. Both injuries occurred while skiing. Age 48, relatively healthy, not athlete healthy. Non-smoker/drinker healthy eating habits, fanatic skier (at least 80 days this season.) I had thought this was going to be relatively simple, yet the more I read the more I am apprehensive regarding the surgery. I am fortunate that I need not rush my recovery yet am quite surprised at the length of recovery.

DM
May 5, 2008 4:22 AM

Glad all went well Janet. Work hard at PT and you will be back to normal in no time!

Deb
May 5, 2008 4:25 AM

Good for you Janet! Glad to hear you are doing so well...and you definitely have to celebrate the milestones or you won't keep going. Deb :0)

Betsy W.
May 5, 2008 10:33 AM

Ashley~ I'm hoping by now the pain you're experiencing in your left leg is lessening. Use the pain meds prescribed to help keep the pain under control. You will find your first week should be spent much like a newborn- sleeping & eating. Don't hesitate to call your surgeon about the chest pain. It could be nothing or it could be something serious. You will also feel pectoral pain from using the crutches regardless of the shape you are in. Supporting the bulk of your body weight on two sticks is difficult but you'll get the hang of it. And if you had general anesthesia, remember to keep coughing to clear your chest- last thing you need is a case of pneumonia. In regards to the blood clots, yes, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious side effect in 17% of knee surgeries. I was one of those statistics. My clot was diagnosed one month after my Feb 2008 surgery. My symptoms were calf pain that felt like a muscle cramp that just wouldn't release. Many people have no pain with a blood clot but do have redness, swelling or heat at the back of the calf. Diagnosing a blood clot is easy- a sonogram is done of the leg and the blood vessels are examined. My clots were below the knee, a good location as they were far away from the heart and therefore less likely to travel and cause breathing problems. My treatment for DVT was done on a outpatient basis- a bit freaky for me, a member of the medical community. I received my first two injections of heparin in the emergency room twelve hours apart, then self injected (and this is when those 'love handles' were a bonus) heparin twice daily for three weeks. Overlapping that last week was my taking another anticoagulant Coumadin which I'll be taking until this fall - 6 months of anticoagulant therapy. Try to keep a positive attitude about your recovery- mind over matter and all. Accept that fact that there are some activities you can't do for the time being and be thankful that this is NOT a lifelong disability. Good luck!

Lars
May 5, 2008 12:31 PM

Brian, My doc said I should be off crutches by day 14 I made it at day 10. It felt much better after being able to weight bear. I was back to work just shy of 3 weeks ( I am on my feet 85% of the time). I saw my doc at 3 weeks he told me to stop limping and it took some mental work but I have done it pretty much. I had my surgery April 8 2008. Driving an automatic was doable at 2 weeks and a standard shortly after that.

Antoine
May 5, 2008 1:23 PM

I don't know where to begin...first of a i slipped on a pickle a work and tore my a ACL and Menicus(i work at a restaurant). I had never had sugery before and was a little nervous. The hospital did a brilliant job with everything, from the drugs to the anesthesia(of which i didn't think would work because i am 6'4" 284lbs) and recovery. Coming home for me though, was pure hell. I did not have a bowel movement for three days, the dwarfs didn't have bic lighters, they had blow torches and sledge hammers and sleep who? Day four i woke up and was not in pain for the first time and of course that joy didn't last. I slid off of the bed slowly ,childishly of course, make un of the pain that once was. Then, blood from the heavens pour down upon my knee, i didn't see it, but somehow it made it through the little hole in my thigh. That s%&# hurt! Since then though i've been fine. I walkin on one crutch and waiting to see my doc for the follow up. Oh yeah hydroco will have you backed up yo! I'm not a doctor but it works, it really does but, your bowels won't. Question, what kind of exersices can i do until my follow up? Can someone email that info to me...thanks

Wendy Jonathan
May 5, 2008 4:46 PM

Janet- great to hear that all is well. Chauncey- you made me laugh too but about the softners. I made sure I was using them...My husband was going to give me a laxative and I told him that I was drugged but not that drugged. Jodi- sounds like your injury was on the job...YUCK. I am a teacher and was hurt while playing football with my students. All I can say is that I hate workman's comp. Be prepared to make calls and be aggressive otherwise everything will take forever. About the cpm machine- I was told to use it three times a day to keep my knee lose. It will make your knee swollen so I wouldn't recommend using while you sleep at night. Brian- kudos to you. I know that sitting or standing too long makes my knee swell and it is uncomfortable. I am glad that I am not back at school yet. People don't realize how demanding our job is on our legs and knees. Take it easy. When are you going to do pt? I was concerned that if I was working that by the time I got to pt afterschool my leg would be worthless. Check to see if you can have PT before school or maybe work half day and then go to pt. Tomorrow I am hoping to have my brace 'unlocked'. Keep your fingers crossed. Pt had me walk without the brace last week and I have been doing it a little. Got to build those quads back up!!!!!!

Betsy W.
May 5, 2008 7:24 PM

Ed~ Keep focused on the timing of surgery and recovery. Having the surgery now means you'll be back on the slopes by the end of the year.

Chauncey
May 6, 2008 8:43 PM

Jodi, I have to say for myself that the pain has not been anywhere close to what I'd been expecting pre-surgery. And I'm now enduring a large hematoma that pushes my kneecap up - making rehab much more enjoyable and rewarding. The pain after surgery is more blunt than sharp, it has its sharp moments but not as much as the blunt ones. I got the hamstring surgery, which is a weird feeling with occassional moments of pain and soreness. Hope this helps, I got the surgery done so I could continue to do house remodeling, play soccer (not indoor with cleats anymore) and play with my kids. I'm not anywhere close to done with rehab but I can already feel the stability in my knee and know when it's stronger the surgery will have been very, very much worth it.

Sara
May 7, 2008 12:51 AM

Hey all! Just thought i would post while i have time. I have 2 finals today and i have to move out of my dorm and back home and get everything ready for my surgery tomorrow. Man i am really nervous. I know it will go alright, my surgeon is amazing, but i still can't help but be nervous. So wish me luck! Thanks for everyones advise. i know it has helped me out alot to kind of know what to expect after tomorrows surgery.

Jodi
May 7, 2008 2:47 AM

Thank you Chauncy. I appreciate any input at all. Although the instability of the knee is very apparent, the pain has been minute. That is kind of baffling to me, that an injury that pretty much tears your knee structure apart has very little injury pain associated with it. I see the doc the 28th, that's when I'll find out when the surgery will be. That I am nervous about. But I do thank you for your input. Keep me updated on everyone's progress. I check this blog every day. Thanks all.

Janet Heidker
May 7, 2008 6:10 AM

Adam - this blog is fantastic - I read it every day too! Question - I am going to my first PT session this morning. Would you recommend taking a Percocet BEFORE that session? Thanks, Janet

Bianca
May 7, 2008 11:18 AM

I am 27, going into surgery next week. I have a question? I am in a situation where I will have to be by myself the day following surgery. My doctor keeps assuring me I will be fine without extra help, but I am scared with all the feedback about the second day pains. I would like to know how long it was before people felt comfortable being on their own. cheers, Bianca

Bianca
May 7, 2008 11:18 AM

I am 27, going into surgery next week. I have a question? I am in a situation where I will have to be by myself the day following surgery. My doctor keeps assuring me I will be fine without extra help, but I am scared with all the feedback about the second day pains. I would like to know how long it was before people felt comfortable being on their own. cheers, Bianca

Jennifer
May 7, 2008 11:51 AM

Bianca - I was by myself the day after surgery too and I was just fine. I would recommend planning ahead though. For example, I had to bring ice from my kitchen to my living room so I set up furniture as stepping stones. Refrigerator to counter, counter to shelves, shelves to couch, couch to coffee table etc. My house is two stories so I tied a large bag to the upper railing so I could haul stuff up and down without having to carry it with me. I used a backpack to carry things with me while using my crutches. Make sure there is enough room between furniture to accommodate crutches. Try to anticipate what things you will need and have them close by. Having a stool or something to prop your leg up on in the bathroom would be handy too. Most likely there will be a lot of pain but you can do it and you'll feel empowered too after realizing all the things you can do by yourself! Good luck!

Bianca
May 7, 2008 12:08 PM

Well, this site has really helped so I will give my backround story too :). I have been active my whole life, lately not as much but I am choosing to have the surgery so I can continue to hike, bike, skate, ect... I hurt myself back in February skateboarding while working in Australia. I was going down an incline and put my foot down to slow down...my knee just gave way with a "pop" and incredible pain. I sat on the ground for a while and there was no immediate swelling, so I didn't run to the doctor or emergency room. I limped back to my hotel room, and "RICE'd" it overnight. I had to continue working for the next two weeks. I saw two doctors in Australia who both said my knee was fine, just let it heal. When something like this happens, usually you know you've f-ed yourself. I have been in pain since this happened...no side movements or any kind of normal walking let alone jog or anything physical. Upon returning home I went to get a MRI: Complete tear of ACL..bone bruises, and partial meniscus tear. I have had a hard time preparing myself mentally for surgery. It seems there are so many procedures and different opinions. I am dissapointed to see a lack of concrete research as to the acuall outcomes short and long term to all these different procedures. My doctor has stated that the long term effects of not getting surgery is arthritis. What I haven't been able to find is if getting the surgery acually prevents this athritis. I have been told by physical therapists that surgery is not needed unless you continue to have pain, but the surgens only want to operate. There is a serious lack of scientific research in this area. Does anyone know the long term effects of this surgery? One of my main concerns is the doctor's conflicting opinions on procedures and materials used. I had one doctor tell me the biodegradable screws turn to mush and have to be removed...yet another tells me he is wrong. I have concluded that the dostors aren't really researching...they are doing what they have been tought or work with materials which have been "pitched" to them. It's a business. For example...ice really only works the first 24 hours after surgery...yet there are many people here who talk about this ice machine they sit with. As well as the leg moving machine. (both are medical "pitches" placeabo if you will) So I am very concerned as you can see..I have choosen to have surgery because I have a great deal of pain that has not gone away. I know the mind is the biggest tool in recovery. I have confidence in my doctors ability to perform this sugery. In the end with everything to worry about...I have to stick with my doctors opinion and concentrate on a successful surgery. I would also like to add: the doctor I am using is convinced I will be walking in three days, off crutches in seven. He says I am completely weight bearing right out of surgery..but pain will prevent me from walking. I am having a donor graft to be minimally invasive. They are also convinced I won't be in as much pain as antisipating and will be fine being alone in my apt. the next day.

Debbie S
May 7, 2008 12:55 PM

Hi Bianca, I have been checking out as many scientific studies as possible via the PubMed website. Just google PubMed and you will find the url to their home page. There are loads of different studies on ACL injury, surgery and recovery. The surgeon who will be doing my surgery (also the doner graft) has been involved in several of the studies. Just remember that some studies are better than others- so be critical. I wish you good luck and all the best!

Betsy W.
May 7, 2008 2:41 PM

Bianca~ Yes, you are going to find lots of variance in the thoughts about your surgery and treatment. Your surgeon is saying no crutches in 7 days- mine wanted me on crutches for 10 weeks!! The CPM machine usage varies- my surgeon was totally against it saying that it was not going to speed my ability to total extension or flexion- that I will have complete range of motion at 6 weeks, and I did. Yet my surgeon DOES use the CPM (continuous passive motion) machine for knee replacement. I beg to differ about the cryocuff, the device that keeps the area cool. It is very common to have swelling and bruising with this surgery and the ice will keep both of those to a minimum. I noticed an amazing amount of heat generating up through the post op bandages and the cryocuff helped keep the area cooled down. Having the cryocuff device was DEFINITELY easier that getting to the freezer for fresh ice packs!! And, at 11 weeks post op I am still using an ice pack at the end of the day. And those bioabsorbable screws are just there until the bone has grown around and secured the graft which, by the way, is most vulnerable at 6-8 weeks. Bone growth does occur in the holes where the screws once were-that is how the graft stays in place. I would say the major difference I have noticed is that prior to surgery, I had hyperextension in both knees. Adjusting to having proper extension in the left leg and still having hyperextension in the right is my biggest hurdle. I will also say that if you are not mentally prepared for the surgery, then don't do it. It is a huge commitment, especially recovery and physical therapy. And it does take time! I expect it to be at least 9 months before I feel totally back to normal.

Betsy W.
May 7, 2008 2:44 PM

Janet- I wouldn't take percoset if you are driving. It is a narcotic and if you are in an accident, you'll end up with a DUI too. Try tylenol or advil instead, about an hour ahead of time.

Betsy W.
May 7, 2008 2:46 PM

Jodi~ I lived with a complete ACL tear for 10 years with no pain- it was the instability and falling that prompted my surgery this past February.

Janet Heidker
May 7, 2008 4:33 PM

I had my first PT session this morning (I have a chiropractor as my PT - he got my knee strong and leg straight before surgery). I answered my own question regarding pain meds before PT - don't do it. The PT was not happy that I took Percocet before my session and said that he wants to know my REAL pain threshhold, not what I can tolerate under the influence of Percocet. Lesson learned. I felt nauseous on the way home and for the rest of the afternoon. I can bend the knee about 45% and have taken the brace off while in the house. Question to all - how long was it before you could sleep without the brace? I am worried that by wearing that contraption to sleep, I am further reinforcing my leg to be straight, when now I need to bend it. Any advice? To Bianca - I understand your skepticism regarding ACL surgery - as a patient who bought the cryocuff water device, I can tell you that my PT said how impressed he was that my knee had such minimal swelling 8 days post op. I used the cryocuff all day every day as needed for relief post op, and I attribute my lack of swelling to this device. My surgeon did not recommend the CPM machine as he wants me to bend my knee on my own. You said you trust your surgeon so having said that, it shouldn't matter what type of screws or buttons he uses to fix your ACL. My surgeon also told me that I would get arthritis in my knee if I didn't have the surgery - but what we discovered was that I already had some arthritis in that knee - and had no pain. I am a lot older than you (55 years) and I had surgery because I enjoy an active lifestyle - skiing, swimming, jogging, exercising at the gym, and I was not willing to give it all up. The pain was not as bad as I expected. I am sure at the end of the day you will be pleased with your decision but I agree, it is an area of "uncharted waters" which makes this blog so informative - we all learn from each other. Good luck and keep us posted.

claire
May 7, 2008 6:58 PM

Hi Janet, I had ACL surgery on Apr 4th, I wore my brace for two weeks straight, the worse part was sleeping with it. I don't sleep on my back ever and that was very hard for me . I was usually up on the hour, now I still have to sleep with a pillow between my legs and turn often during the night! but at least the brace is gone. Pt's say to wear the brace while I am out shopping e.t.c in case I twist my leg, but I am a poor listener I hate that thing! If I over do it during the day I pay for it at night , all I could suggest is ice and more ice. Like I have said in my previous comments, I have no patience for this at all. The good news is I feel stronger every day and never ever miss your PT appointments...best of luck to you Claire

Betsy W.
May 8, 2008 5:04 AM

To All regarding sleeping with your brace~ Ask your surgeon about when the brace can safely come off for sleeping. During your night's sleep, your body moves involuntarily and this movement of twisting, turning, kicking, etc can cause damage to the graft and pain. My recommendation is to do what the surgeon recommends. And while you're asking him/her about sleeping with a brace, be sure to ask about sleeping with a pillow under your leg and a bent knee. Many will say DON'T do this as it may prolong full extension.

DM
May 8, 2008 6:25 AM

Hi Janet - glad all is going well. I stopped wearing the brace to bed after about a week. Bianca - I was able to walk after the first PT session which was the day after surgery. I went down to one crutch after a few days and was without them completely after about a week.

Wendy Jonathan
May 8, 2008 8:58 AM

Janet- I had my surgery on 3/31 and I was told to toss the brace on this past Tuesday- 5/6. I wasn't using crutches after one week after surgery. Each case seems to be different. It was wonderful getting in a 'sort of' fetile position in bed! Claire- I don't wear the brace at all now so I am really cautious about walking and I thought I was slow with the brace...if I get any slower I will be walking backwards. Janet...Do everything your PT says and don't miss any appointments and as my pt keeps telling me that you will recovery but slowly...don'[t rush it or you will be back in a year or so with problems with your knee.

Brian
May 8, 2008 11:48 AM

Hi all Had acl surgery (removed about 50% of ligament) 2 weeks ago. I went back to the surgeon after 10 days and he drained about 200ml of blood. Within the day, it had swelled up again and I went back ... he said that there is quite a lot of blood there again but did not want to drain it because of of infection. Has anyone else had this problem? Any advice? Thanks

Aging athlete
May 8, 2008 7:25 PM

I am 3 weeks out on an acl and double meniscus repair surgery. Overall, I have been doing real well except for the off and on frustration of not being able to get around as much as I like. It looks like doctors have many different protocols following surgery. Due to the meniscus repairs, I have to wear a brace locked straight whenever I am weightbearing for a full 6 weeks. I don't have to wear it at all when I am sitting, sleeping or doing my non-weight-bearing excercises. I am curious what instructions others have received who have had meniscus repairs.

Lars
May 9, 2008 1:56 AM

Bianca I would definitely recommend the CPM machine. I was on mine about 3 hours after surgery. It definitely made starting to bend it on my own easier. And as for the ice, for the first couple of weeks I iced every chance I got and the PT and Doc said that the swelling looked very good. It has been a month now and I still try to ice every now and then. I am on my feet 80 to 90 % of the day at work. I was also weight bearing as tolerated right after surgery, they used my hamstring so it took a couple days but I was down to one crutch after 4 days and both were gone before 10 days and now I am not even limping. I am trying to be patient and stay in for the long haul of PT, but not running or biking is getting real old.

Kathy
May 9, 2008 5:17 AM

I have a complete tear to the left ACL from jumping off a pogo stick....my surgeon's first pogo stick casualty! Surgery is set for Tues., May 13. They're using a donor graft. After reading these posts, I am worried about the pain on day 2+. I've never had a broken bone and the only surgery I've had were 3 "C" sections. I am also worried about using crutches. I'm terrible with them! I hope I can bear weight fast! Yikes!

Janet Heidker
May 9, 2008 6:38 AM

Kathy - I am 10 days post op - I had hamstring graft (more invasive than your surgery). I was worried about the pain too - big time - but it wasn't that bad. Just take your pain meds as directed - I took them during the night as well every 4 hours and they took the edge off the pain. No nausea. You have to remember that the surgeon will drill through your bones, so the pain I felt was a "burning" sensation, but it was bearable. 2 days following the operation, I stopped taking pain meds, and I also have ditched the crutches today! They are a nuisance but you will want them to support your weight following surgery. Let's hope you are better with crutches than the pogo stick! I am anxious to ditch the leg brace - that is a huge pain the **** I am off to PT this morning for session 2 Good luck, Janet

Kathy
May 9, 2008 7:49 AM

Were any of you in an ACL brace before surgery? I had no stability and I've been in a Donjoy ACL brace since my career ending pogo stick injury in March. Will I be back in that same kind of brace after surgery?? I think I'll be in an imobilizer initially but I am sooooo sick of this ACL brace. It's been another limb for 2 months now. I'm ready to put this contraption on Ebay!

Joe
May 9, 2008 2:08 PM

My 14 yr old had the ACL surgery plus repair of 2 torn meniscus on April 10th. He still wears the same brace he had before the surgery - all day - but stopped sleeping with it after week 1. The first 3 or 4 days were a real challenge but was getting around pretty good after week 1. For any athletes seeking inspiration on how quick you can recover check out dennisdixon10.com. If anyone is aware of any other website like that one let me know.

claire
May 9, 2008 8:10 PM

Kathy! Please don't be embarrased, how about this one, I tore my ACL falling out of my bathtub! had surgery apr 4th, the best thing was the machine the doc. sent to the house ( sorry dont know the name of it) it bend's your leg. you use it right after surgery and it really helps with pain and makes you heal much faster. Exercise and ice and lots of it! take care all...Claire

claire
May 9, 2008 8:16 PM

Also, Kathy I can't really tell you about how yours will feel afterwards because I didn't have a donor graft. it might be faster healing for you! As you can see on this site everyone is so different. It is a great site, helped me alot, let us know how you are doing...... Claire

Wendy Jonathan
May 10, 2008 7:41 AM

So I guess I am the cool one at this site...Football injury at 51! I do have to say that they were 10 and 11 year olds that I was playing against...but still a football injury. Kathy- I was on a brace from 2/9 of my injury until 3/31 of my surgery. My tear to my meniscus and total tear of my ACL and partial to MCL resulted in my leg popping 7 times the first day until I was put on crutches the next day they put my on a brace. I was on my brace until 5/6 and all I can tell you is that having it off is a little like that first kiss...GOD DOES IT FEEL SO GOOD...LOL. Ask your doctor if you can go on a stationery bike at the gym. My doctor recommended that and you need to make sure that the leg is as strong as possible going into the surgery. The cpm machinie is great for getting the leg limber again. Claire- You never said how you got the injury. It gives new meaning to the danger in the bathroom. By the way the machine that bends the knee is a cpm machine.

Braden
May 10, 2008 12:14 PM

The little work you did after surgery was paperwork....if you tore your acl you cant do anything physical after surgery that fast no way.

Pamela
May 11, 2008 5:46 PM

Hello all, I tore my ACL and medial meniscus in February. Due to the meniscus being flipped into the center of the knee I was unable to completely straighten or bend my knee prior to surgery. I waited 2 months before getting the surgery. It has been a month since I had the surgery (I had an allograft) and I still cannot get my knee bent beyond 90 degrees without some assistance (very painful as well). The muscles above the knee are so bunched up and I cannot get them to relax so I can get it bent. When I try to bend it beyond 90 degrees I feel like the knee is going to split apart. Is anyone else having this issue? It is excruciatingly painful, and I just want it to be better already.

sarah
May 12, 2008 1:40 PM

i just went to the doc today and i have only about 5%of my acl left and 2 meniscus tears. surgery is scheduled for june 4th. i was wondering how long i would need to be completely off of the leg.with work, im standing and walking around on it for about 8 hours but my doc said that i should be able to go back to work within a few days. i dont see how this is possible since he is reconstructing my acl and fixing the meniscus tears. i dont know how long to ask off for work. any ideas?

Paul
May 13, 2008 1:47 PM

Pamela, I can relate to your knee bending issue. I had ACL reconstruction (Allograft) and a meniscus trim on April 14th. (4 weeks ago) In Physical therapy, they kept bending my knee until I wimpered like a 5 year old, then told me I needed to do more. I hate crying in public, so I have taken it upon myself to get this knee bending on my own terms and pain threshold. I asked all my neighbors if they had a stationary bicycle that they might not be using that I could borrow (A YMCA membership was my next choice if I couldn't find a loaner bike). One finally came thru. Using an office chair, which you can usually jack up pretty high, and will also tilt back and forth, I bend my leg under the chair as much as my knee will stand then ask for just a little more (small wimper). The tilt feature on the office chair helps you to easily back off when you think you've hit your maximum bend. Once loosened up, I get on the bike and ride it for about 15 minutes. If the bike feels comfortable, I increase the bend so, the next time I start, it will hurt a little but give me more of a bend. It always feels better at the end of the session. In one week I've gone from crying at 90 degrees to no problem at 90 and crying at 115 degrees.

Wendy Jonathan
May 13, 2008 4:04 PM

Pamela- You sound like me. Injuried it beginning of February and had the surgery the last day of March. There are a couple of exercises my pt has me do which seem really effective. Are you doing heel slides? They will help with the flexibilty. Also when you sit try pulling your leg back without your hands as far as you can under a chair. Also try doing mini squats. DO NOT GO LOW!!! Just squatting slightly will again help loose your knee. Finally, grab the back of your thigh and leg gravity take the knee down. You just need to loosen those muscles and ligaments. Finally, as my pt says you need to accept this is not a fast recovery that it will come with time. Sarah- It really depends on what you do. As a teacher I have been out since the day of my injury 2/8 because they don't allow teachers on crutches and once the brace was removed they were concerned about me being bumped. If your job requires you to sit you will find that you need to get up periodically because your knee will begin to ache. Depending on the graft they use will depend on how strong it will be walking around and standing. I have a hamstring graft and if I am on my leg too long my hamstring begins to ache. How long is your brace going to be on? It also sounds like you will not be using a cpm machine since you should be on this for a total of 6-8 hours using it at morning, noon, and night. I understand that some people use it while sleeping which is not what it is meant to do. You need to be keeping your knee loose and flexible throughout the day so it is best to use it 3 hours in the morning, 3 hours at noon and 2 hours in the evening.

Janet Heidker
May 13, 2008 4:54 PM

I went for my first post-op visit today - 14 days. Stitches were removed, doc said swelling was minimal (hopefully) due to the cryocuff device. Not much bruising either. He was pleased and told me I don't need the brace anymore (yippeee) and I don't need crutches either - he told me to concentrate on strengthening the quads - my issue is that I can only bend my knee about 60% and I am doing the exercises. I also feel a "tightness" when I try to bend it more, but I am told not to do too much. I have to get a good PT to get me back into shape as soon as possible. Sarah - if you have to walk, bend, stand, etc. you won't be able to go back to work in a few days - this is major surgery and painful for the first few days post-op - I will have taken 3 weeks off work before I return next Tuesday and my doc still has not cleared me to drive. Claire has taken 6 weeks off work as a flight attendant - it depends on the demands of your work. But please be prepared - this is no cake walk! Good luck.

Carrie
May 13, 2008 5:31 PM

Hi everyone. Sarah, I hope you reconsider going back to work the few days following your surgery. Maybe some people were back to their regular old selves, but it took me about 2 weeks after my ACL reconstructive surgery to start feeling like I could be productive in any situation. Sure, I was doing my physical therapy everyday, but no way was I going to stand for hours on end. I recommend taking a few weeks off and talking to your doctor again.People who get the flu take a few days off of work, not ones who have just had their knee operated on. I wish the best to everyone.

DM
May 14, 2008 4:12 AM

Sarah - I work in an office. I had full ACL replacement on Thursday 1/10 and was back in the office on Monday 1/14. I was able to start driving two days after the surgery. I had the surgery on the left leg. The hardest part was getting it into my truck! Janet - I'm not sure if your PT has you doing wall and heel slides but these really helped me get my flexibility back pretty quickly.

Kathy
May 14, 2008 9:40 AM

I had the surgery yesterday at 830. It went very well! The nerve block is gone and I take 2 percocet every 4 hours and I've had no pain! I am doing a little (very little) weight bearing. The doc removed a little bit of the meniscus, cleaned up some arthritis and used a patella allograft. So far, so good!!! PT starts next week after I see the surgeon.

Holly Marie
May 14, 2008 11:05 AM

DM - I am really encouraged by the fact that you had surgery on 1/10 and was in the office the following morning. Why was your recovery so quick? I am having surgery (allograft) on May 24 and hope to be in the office June 3. I won't be able to drive like you did as it's my right knee. Were you still using your crutches and/or a brace at work?

Holly Marie
May 14, 2008 11:09 AM

DM - Eek! I meant following Monday, not morning - that would truly be amazing!

Kathy
May 14, 2008 12:43 PM

I had surgery yesterday and it went very well. No pain even after the nerve block wore off thanks to the percocet. This afternoon I am able tp put some weight on it as long as I use crutches, The surgeon said I could go back in a week to work as long as I stay at a desk He removed a little section of my meniscus. I had some earlysigns of arthritis so he worked on that as well. He used a donor Patella ligament to reconstruct mine. PT will begin after I see the surgeon next week.

Betsy W.
May 14, 2008 3:00 PM

Holly Marie~ It depends on your job. I teach and my lectures are 3-4 hours at a time presented while on my feet. My surgery was 3 months ago and I'm still not back. I'm hoping to return this July. My knee swells by mid day and is very stiff. I, too, had allograft.

M
May 14, 2008 6:13 PM

My friend just blew out his ACL (I think it's 95% gone) and also injured (tore I think) his meniscus playing ice hockey two weeks ago. The doctor wants him to try to get mobility in the knee and to come back and see him in 2 weeks. But the doctor didn't give him the CPM machine or prescribe physical therapy to do this. He just said to bend it and maybe try to ride a stationary bike. QUESTION: I'm a little angry at the doctor for not prescribing therapy right now to help him get mobility in his knee. In fact, a "little angry" doesn't even cover y feelings. Does the doctor think he'll be able to hobble around for 2 weeks in amazing pain and all of a sudden his ACL will have returned?? Why wait 2 weeks? I'm ready to "fire" the doctor for being stupid. Am I right to want my friend to switch doctors? Any advice is much appreciated. My friend plays high level hockey and would like to return to the ice.

DM
May 15, 2008 4:08 AM

Holly Marie - I was in the full leg brace and on crutches for the first week or so. My boss let me work light duty for a few weeks. I began physical therapy the day after the surgery. The nerve block had not even completely worn off yet! The PT had me walking on both legs with the crutches after that session. I went for my first follow-up visit with the surgeon about a week after surgery. By the time I went to see him, I was down to one crutch. After the visit I changed to the smaller ACL brace. I ditched the brace after my 4/17 visit and have done a little light jogging. This week I will start doing leg extensions on my weight machine for the first time since the surgery. I have been doing squats and leg curls since PT ended in February. Physical therapy is the key! I went three times a week and did all of my PT exercises 2-3 times a day on the days I didn't go to PT. My doctor gave me no option but to start PT the day after the surgery. I can't believe some of these doctors that wait weeks to put the patient into PT. I have had full flexibility since about three weeks after the surgery.

Kathy
May 15, 2008 5:15 AM

Hi everyone, I've posted 2x since my first and they are not showing up. Maybe I'm just wasting my time! I am 48 hours post op and am now able to walk with one crutch. I have a cpm machine and am on it much of the day and night. The cry-cuff (ice man) runs constantly as well. No pain, just a little bit of aching. The knee is tight but I am up to 70 * on the cpm. The surgeon said I could possibly go back to work in a week. I'll know for sure at my first post-op (six days out of surgery) That is when PT will start. So far, so good!

Holly Marie
May 15, 2008 7:57 AM

DM - Thanks. I have surgery May 24, Surgeon F/U on June 3 and first PT June 4. I'm not sure why I can't start PT sooner. I may ask again at the hospital day of surgery if I can start sooner. If I can get off the crutches/big leg brace in about 1 week or so, I can handle that (I hope). After that, I'm hoping to only need a "small" brace to go out and brave the world and work. I'll need to take a bus to get to work. I recall how all of this was post-injury and know that leg/knee will be unstable and steps won't be fun. But I got thru it once before and will get thru it again. I now dream of running in October, 10 months post-injury.

Wendy Jonathan
May 15, 2008 8:00 AM

M- First...Calm down. The doctor is right. The doctor can't operate until the initial swelling goes down. Most ACL patients have surgery about a month after their injury. You don't use the cpm machine until after surgery. The doctor wanted him to ride a stationary bike. That is exactly what I was told and what other are also told. He needs to build up the muscle mass in his injuried knee. This will make the recovery much faster. He needs to bend it and and try to make it as fleible as possible. It isn't easy, and trust me all of us on this site can tell you that doing anything with a both a torn meniscus and ACL tear was uncomfortable. I tore 25% of my meniscus, shredded my ACL and had a partial MCL tear. I was told to walk without pivoting or twisting...no crutches or brace. As far as playing hockey...he really shouldn't plan on playing for a year. Even professional football players wait a year before coming back to such demanding sports. If fact I was sitting next to Oscar Lua of the Patriots the other day during pt. His injury was 8 months ago and he is preparing himself for the upcoming season. Your friend will get back to normal but tearing an ACL and meniscus --to quote my pt --is a slow process...otherwise you will be back in about a year or two with another torn ACL or worse a knee repacement.

Bianca
May 15, 2008 8:03 AM

Alrighty...1st day post op...I am having minor pain where the bone was drilled..I'd say a 2 out of ten. I am taking hydrocodine about every three hours. (it is prescribed 1-2 every four hours, so I am doing one as soon as pain starts to return..about every three.) of course pain meds = dizzyness. It is still early, but I have to say the pain is much better than anticipated. Yesterday was another story...upon waking from surgery I could feel everything..10 out of 10! It took about four shots and a half hour to control the pain. The rest of the night I was about 5 out of 10 pain. In the middle ofthe night it got much better. It is of course annoying trying to sleep on the back, but I have practice at this because the first three weeks of this injury I couldn't sleep on my side. M - the doctor is 100% correct in telling your friend to wait two weeks. It is very dangerous to operate so close to the injury date, and every doctor/pt I talked to wanted me to have full mobility back (sweling must go down) before the surgery. I didn''t do PT pre-op and got my mobility back in a little over a month. If he is a professional athlete he will have no problem doing this on his own. PT is highly recomended before surgery to strengthen leg muscles. I would also recomend finding a doctor who will do patellor tendon if he a professional athlete...this is the strongest. From what I have read..hamstring doesn't seem to be a good option unless there is no other choice...a lot of people continue to have hamstring pains post-op, it's weaker than the patellor, and the allograph is fine for people who don't play professional sports. I would say not to be angry at a doctor! It's a waiste of energy...if your not happy, see a second or third doctor...i would recomend a second opinion anyway...I went with the second doctor I found. I would also like to add...I do not have a CPM machine..my doctor thinks is completely unessesary. I have an ice pack, and my pain is minimal...we shall see as time goes on weather I will invest in one. cheers, Bianca

Tonya
May 15, 2008 9:00 AM

It's great to see I'm not alone in this adventure. I was playing tennis May 6 and blew my ACL out, I herd the pop and feel to the ground. I've been through this before, 14 years ago, I had my right knee operated on after living with an unstable knee for 16 years. (I did that one skiing!) So I've decided I don't have another 16 years to wabble around, so I need to go in, be brave and have my ACL repaired. My doctor (an Olympic gold medalist) told me to go a head and ride a stationary bike. I thought he was just pushing me to get a gold because it's sore and swollen and I haven't been real excited to jump on the bike because of the pain. But after reading everyone else I'll stop being a baby and go to the gym. I have a wedding to get through before I can have my operation. No it's not my own it's my daughters. Wish me luck!

Paul
May 15, 2008 6:39 PM

I tore my ACL and Meniscus in March. I fell off the dock while washing my boat, but my left leg stayed on the dock bending sideways at the knee. It was recommended that I have surgery as soon as possible because the Meniscus tear required immobileization. My Meniscus was torn out of socket and was pinched behind another ligament. I couldn't bend my knee at all without significant pain. Surgery was April 14th. The lack of use for three weeks before surgery, caused significant atrophy of my quad muscles, which I am still having significant trouble with. If you have an opportunity to do PT or workout your quad muscles at a gym before surgery, do all you can. It will pay off with less pain and quicker recovery post surgery. I was in taking a lot of pain meds the first week after surgery. I had a lot of swelling anytime that I did not have my leg elevated. Except for a few minutes per day when I had to move from one room to another, I had to have my leg elevated all the time. I can't imagine having to get on a city bus to go to work. Everything started getting better every day after they took the stitches out on day 10. Now 4 weeks after surgery, I still have my post-op brace on, but it's finally unlocked. I switched from crutches to a cane two weeks ago, and I'm hanging up the cane today.

Lars
May 15, 2008 11:36 PM

M - I will agree with the others here. The doc is right to get the range of motion back and the swelling down before surgery. My Doc also said if the knee is still swollen he cannot repair it as good. If your friend feels more comfortable with a second opinion get one. I was not so happy with the first doctor that I saw and was told by many people not to rush and find an experienced doctor that I was comfortable with. I ended up with one of the U.S. Olympic ski team doctors and have been very pleased. I think that everyone here would agree that ROM and no swelling before the surgery and disciplined PT after the surgery are key to your friends success.

shawn walters
May 16, 2008 1:21 PM

Diagnosed yesterday with full tear of acl and miniscus damage. Doctor prescribed PT to get more range and then in 2 to 3 weeks acl surgery using a cadaver tendon. Anyone have any issues with the cadaver technique? Thanks

Betsy W.
May 16, 2008 4:33 PM

Shawn~ I'm a 48 year old woman, 3 months post-surgery with cadaver tissue. Read my early April entries for more details but I found the pain, bruising, swelling to be virtually non-existent. My surgeon is VERY conservative- does not believe in continuous passive motion machine (CPM) or giving up crutches until at least 8 weeks. I used crutches for 10 weeks AND brace too while walking. My limp is gone and other than end of the day swelling, I'm pretty pleased with results thus far. Just wish I could reach deep under the kitchen sink cabinet ;-) If you research online there have been some issues with use of cadavers, namely disease transmission and possible weakness of the tissue due to use of radiation to kill off any viruses present. Most of those issues were years ago and tissue banks have improved tremendously. Personally, I would not compromise my hamstrings using a graft from that area - a common side effect especially for women nor would I want the possible knee pain from kneeling from an autograft patellar tendon. Usually autografts are done on the young or those returning to sports. I don't fall into either of those categories, I just wanted a stable knee so my life style would no longer be compromised.

fidel
May 16, 2008 8:54 PM

trust me shawn, pre-op PT is a really good thing to do! I tore my ACL on March 2nd, 2008 and I had to do 4 weeks of PT before surgery to get my ROM back and strength .... had surgery Apr 18 08 and to tell you the truth, a guy that tore his the same day I did but had surgery 2 weeks prior and had a week of PT to get just ROM is doing about the same as I am ... trick was pushing your knee but not testing it, muscle stimulation, lots of hamstring exercises and control the swelling so you get your ROM back faster .... granted Im much bigger than normal, 6'4 330lbs doc said it would most likely take me somewhere near 3-4 months to run and 6-9 months to play soccer again (leaning towards 8-9), my therapist said I'd most likely be back to jogging in about a month and soccer more than likely at the 6 month mark, if not sooner .... good luck with your surgery, keep with the PT, they tell you do 30 reps, do 50 instead, they tell you 5 minutes on elliptical, do 7 .... just keep doing more, the more work you do, the stronger youll be and the faster youll be back ...

Bianca
May 18, 2008 5:37 PM

Update 4 days post - op The minimal pain didn't last long, I have been very achy for four days now, but it is getting better. Almost off pain meds. The great thing is my doctor said it is unessecary to wear the brace when relaxing in the house and sleeping. It must be worn if I will be walking around. As I said before, I am full weight bearing, so doc says to loose crutches when ready. Also, I wil start PT after 1st doc appointment, but I am to try to bend the knee as much as possible until than. I am still using 1 crutch, and I am still pretty achy. Just to share a little info I have come across: I was looking into rehab websites and stumbled across a professor's website from glasgow who studies knee injuries for 30+ years. I should have thought of this before...it is interesting that once you research this injury in a health care system where everything is free, you come across different belieifs in treating this injury... The first important thing they don't believe surgery is necessary! (Unless professional athlete.) They recommend rehabing the knee to see if you can build your muscles up enough to stabalize the knee. This is not possible for eveyone, this is when surgery is recomended. They say ligament damage can cause arthritis, but they also agree that the surgery does not prevent this!! This is comming from a surgen who performs many of these surgeries a year. It is interesting that when money is taken out of the picture...a little more truth is revealed. If you look at my original post you will see these are the questions I had which I thought the American system was neglecting. Although my intuition was right...I am happy to have made my decition. I am an athlete and am happy to be moving closer to playing again. "The ACL also provides important information about balance to the joint and surrounding muscles. When it has been torn, it is unable to heal and the balance information it carries is also lost. Sometimes, these balance mechanisms can be improved with specific exercises and stop the knee giving way. However, when the exercises are not enough, then reconstruction of the ACL may become necessary. It must be said that reconstructed ligaments can never totally replace the function of the original ligament. " "The Aim of Surgery The surgery is designed to allow individuals to return to their normal function and sporting activities. It should stabilise the knee and stop the knee buckling or giving way. However, the results can be unpredictable. Published reports indicate 85 – 90% of people consider their knee to be functioning normally or near normal after surgery. The reconstructed ligament is not the same as the original but appears to give satisfactory results. Wear and tear arthritis is associated with ligament injuries and is not necessarily prevented by ligament reconstruction surgery." http://www.mcnicholaskneeclinic.co.uk/index.htm

Bianca
May 18, 2008 6:32 PM

After researching England medicine I have to say I would have liked to have been told the truth by my doctors. There is a serious problem in medicine when surgery isn't a last resort. American doctors would rather expose us to the risk of surgery (which they dumb down) than tell us the truth..this is the sick money game of american medicine. Here is a little truth: "Reconstruction of the ACL is the surgical treatment of choice once direct primary repair of the ligament has been shown to result in persistent laxity and instability of the knee" "There is, however, no evidence that operations reduce the risk of meniscal tears or osteoarthritis" "Surgery should always be deferred until a range of movement of at least 0-120 degrees is obtained in a knee that is quiet and non-inflamed. This usually means a delay of up to six weeks from the time of injury. This decreases the risk of arthrofibrosis and post-operative knee stiffness" "No studies have shown that reconstructed knees develop less osteoarthritis than those that are treated conservatively" "There appears to be no significant benefit in terms of patient recovery for overprotection with plasters/braces or restriction of movement. There is also very little evidence for the use of continuous passive motion (CPM) machines or cryotherapy (which we nevertheless find most patients like)"

Janet Heidker
May 19, 2008 6:24 AM

Bianca~ I had ACL hamstring graft 20 days ago - progressing well, but not fast enough - PT is gruelling as I was told it would be. I live in Toronto,Canada, where medical service is free, just like in the U.K. To your comment about the U.K. surgeons, my own surgeon also said that ACL surgery is elective - I don't have to have it. He said he could scope my knee to get rid of the ACL stumps and we could rehab it to get it strong - but he did say it would likely give out occasionally with athletic activity. He said if returning to skiing is my goal, surgery would be necessary. He also said that arthritis is more likely with an injured ACL, but not a given. I waited 2 months before having surgery. I am surprised at how many (American) patients on this blog have a cadaver graft. This is not common in Toronto because of the possibility of infection, and the fact that the tissue is not part of the patient's body - there is a risk of rejection. Surgeons here prefer the patient's own tissue - either patellar or hamstring. Patellar grafts make it difficult for the patient to kneel. My surgeon does not believe that hamstring graft weakens the hamstring - provided it is properly exercised post op. My surgeon operates on our professional Toronto Maple Leafs hockey team and the Toronto Blue Jays players. He also does not believe in the CPM machine saying he wants me to rehab my knee on my own strength - he does, believe in the cryocuff because it comforts the patient, requires less walking around post op to the fridge, and swelling is minimized. I had very little swelling post op. Just out of curiosity, would you share with me how much an ACL surgery costs? I have no idea. I didn't even pay for medication - that too is covered by the government in Canada.

Betsy W.
May 19, 2008 11:32 AM

Janet~ My surgery costs thus far are hovering around 20K. That does not take into consideration the additional costs of my blood clots i.e. venous sonogram, ER visit, Lovenox (that med was $3200 for 28 days!), 6 months coumadin therapy, visits with internist for clot issue and blood tests AND probably another $3000 for PT. Health insurance will cover most of those fees.

Paul B
May 19, 2008 11:42 AM

So far I have racked up over $35,000 in gross bills, Insurance has allowed and is paying for about $15,000. I am out of pocket about $500

Bianca
May 19, 2008 11:57 AM

Betsy - What were the symptoms of your blood clots...I am scared I have one. It will cost around $20,000 - $30,000 $5,000 out of pocket with insurance....that's four months pay for me...and no compensation during the four month out of work...so this is a years worth of money for me. -bianca

Janet Heidker
May 19, 2008 12:10 PM

Betsy~ Thank you for sharing. I am shocked! I know that when I was taken to Vail Valley Medical Centre (a medical hotel!) they took xrays, MRI, sold me crutches, a knee brace, an exercise strap, 3 ice packs (yes, they charged for each one ) and prescription for Vicoden - they would not see me unless I put the charges on my Visa - and I didn't know how much that would cost, but I was hurt and upset and wanted to know what was wrong with my knee. This hospital does not take third party billing for patients living outside the States. Otherwise I could have had my medical insurance pay. Bottom line is I was seen by one doctor - was in the emerg for 5 hours mostly waiting, the bill came and I nearly fainted $4,200 for the above. I am still waiting for our medical system to reimburse me - they don't rush with big bills from outside Canada. How are you doing, now the worst part is over? Are you pleased with your donor graft?

Janet Heidker
May 19, 2008 12:19 PM

Bianca~ I just saw your post - again, thank you for sharing. Seems like a licence to print money! I am sorry it is such a difficult injury to cope with and then, you have to worry about costs to get it fixed - I guess one has to have a healthy bank account to consider this surgery. I am concerned to read you may have a bloodclot. I sincerely hope not. Let's see what Betsy says about hers. Good luck.

Chere S.
May 19, 2008 1:34 PM

It's great to know that I am not alone. I too, completely tore my ACL and some cartilage playing flag football. My surgery was 4/24/08. I didn't get the CPM machine but did a few exercises at home and then started therapy about a week later and almost died! My doctor told me to ditch the crutches, so I have been on the brace solely. After about the 4th day at therapy, I was so sore it was like I had the surgery all over again. But after reading all the posts, I am encouraged to continue and press on!

Wendy Jonathan
May 19, 2008 3:21 PM

Bianca- Some of my friends were part of the generation that did not have reconstructive surgery. I will tell you that they are limited as to what they can do. If you are an active person with a significant tear surgery is the best. With regards to the cost...I shudder to think of the cost of all this. I am covered by workman's comp.

Betsy W.
May 20, 2008 5:47 AM

My symptoms for blood clot appeared 4 weeks after surgery. For three days my calf was very sore- like a muscle cramp that just wouldn't go away. I tried stretching, massage and heat- nothing helped. All the WRONG things to do if a clot is present but I didn't think it was a clot at all since I had just begun using some weights at PT and thought it to be a muscle strain. A phone call to my sister, an RN, suggested that I call the surgeon. An immediate appointment was made for a venous sonogram at the local hospital and the diagnosis was made. From radiology I was wheeled to the ER where I was given my first injection of Lovenox, a type of heparin, and further instructions to follow up at surgeon's office the following morning. The injections take some getting use to- and this is when those "love handles" are a benefit as the injections are into your abdomen. I had to self-inject twice daily, twelve hours apart, for three weeks. The last week I was also on a second anticoagulant, Coumadin, so the 2 meds overlapped. My internist is still trying to get the right dose for the Coumadin which I'll be on until the end of September. Sometimes there is also redness, swelling, and heat in the area of blood clots too. My best advice is that any persistent calf pain should be immediately reported to the surgeon. Deep vein thrombosis is a serious complication of any surgery yet easily treated when diagnosed. Bianca, I hope this helps.

Holly Marie
May 20, 2008 6:55 AM

Bianca - I did lots of research on ACL surgery and whether it is needed or not because I did not want it. My surgeon at first recommended no surgery - still not really sure why. I was willing to rehab for 3 months to get my quad strong, give up skiing (but not running, yoga, other non-pivoting activities),etc. to avoid surgery. However, at my 2.5 month follow up visit, he said I'd need surgery. I just could not, and still can't 4 months post injury, get full extension. He said I was plateauing. I think I'm regressing. I now have more pain than I ever did and I'm getting worse (i.e. getting down steps is painful). So, for me, surgery is not an option, it is a necessity if I even want to walk properly. Yes, some surgeons will opt for surgery every time. That's why it is always best to get a second opinion here in the States. It is also one reason why our medical expenses are so high - as long as one has health insurance, many doctors will take advantage of that.

Philip
May 20, 2008 12:35 PM

Had surgery yesterday, donor graft. Orto thought he was going to have to do a microfracture as well.. thank God they didnt have to. Knee feels fine right now, but I guess that's due to the meds, start PT tomorrow.

Dave
May 21, 2008 5:43 AM

I just had my surgery for reconstrutive acl. I was going about 15 years with out an ACL. About 3 weeks after (with my brace on) i guess i put to much weight on it and forced it to strightened out, also i was turning the opposite direction while it was planted. I didn't go down but my friend heared the popping and cracking sounds. The thing is that I'm still getting that numbing PAIN in the top part of my knee, just like before all my surgeries! Can anyone tell me if that happend to them? thanks Dave.

Kathy
May 21, 2008 7:38 AM

Hello all! Seven days post op and I am back at work. The surgery went great! The surgeon said I have very little swelling which is probably due to the constant use of the cryo cuff and the cpm machine. I am walking with 1 crutch for support. I start PT next week. My knee aches after too much walking but that's about it. For me, no surgery was not an option. I had no stability whatsoever even with pre op PT. I am so glad to be on the road to recovery. I wish I had done this a month ago. No more pogo sticks for me! No more ACL brace either....Hurray!

Kathy
May 21, 2008 7:56 AM

I just read a few of the previous posts. I work in a public school system in FL. I have an HMO for insurance. My surgery cost 13,147.00. I had to submit a $100.00 copay. Insurance covered the rest. I was at the surgery center for about 4 hours. Insurance pays 70% of approved costs for bracing. I had a donjoy ACL brace before surgery and I paid 200.00 for that. My "ice-man" (cryo cuff ) and cpm machine are rentals and they are covered 100% by my HMO. The Florida Orthopaedic Institute in Tampa is awesome!! I highly recommend it!

Minh
May 21, 2008 7:27 PM

Hi all: I just had acl, pcl and meniscus reconstruction 5-19-08 and will be getting MCL reconstruction 6-3-08. I am looking for encourgement from similarly injured people. I guess my concern is will I get arthritis down the road. Will I be able to be normal say being able to job, as for full speed running, that's probably not going to happen. This was from a bad accident in a 3rd world country. This was the absolute trip from hell...VIETNAM. Thank you in advance........mqt1969@yahoo.co...please email me your personal experiences and triumph :)

Kate
May 24, 2008 10:13 PM

I had my acl surgery seven days ago. Unfortunately, I also had to have a micro fracture surgery due to a dime sized chip out of the femur. I don't have a lot of swelling, but I am finding it excruciating to bend the knee. Just curious what degree of flexion one can expect one week after surgery.

Holly Marie
May 26, 2008 8:16 AM

I am 2 days post-op and all is fine. Thanks to the percocets, pain is tolerable and somethings I don't even feel it. My surgeon told me to take off my brace and to start to do foot pumps, leg lifts and heel slides (which are difficult and I can't bend my knee too well). He said to start weaning off the crutches in a few days. I feel very fortunate things are going as they are. Read more on my blog: http://dcholly.blogspot.com/

Tessa
May 26, 2008 2:35 PM

Hi All. This Thursday will be 4 1/2 months after surgery (acl repair with hamstring). I had a rough start. I was not allowed to walk or put weight on my leg for almost 3 weeks. I then started physio which was painfull. Just putting my leg straight was pure agony. However, today, I am pleased to announce that I am doing well. I started jogging on my knee one month ago. I pretty much back to normal activities, except sports of course. I don't have full bending capacity yet but I am getting there. I was given a sheet of exercise to follow at home and it gradually increased by stages (number of weeks after surgery). The most important message I have gotten is to do your exercises and stick with it.

Betsy W
May 27, 2008 5:17 AM

Tessa~ Do you still have swelling? That seems to be my enemy now at 3 1/2 months post surgery. Reduces ROM and gets very uncomfortable by mid-day.

Holly Marie
May 29, 2008 8:02 AM

This is my second post. Not sure where the other one went. But, I had my ACL surgery (allograft) on Saturday and all went well. Pain very manageable, down to one crutch, brace off on second day post-surgery. Hope to go back to work on June 3, start PT June 4. Read more on my blog at http://dcholly.blogspot.com/.

Dina
May 29, 2008 8:03 AM

I am a 33 year old female. Very active, with 2 boys, a 1 year old and 3 year old. I hurt myself playing softball on 4/25/08 and later found out it was my ACL, and meniscus. I was absolutely devistated! I am stressing out sooo much about this procedure being done. My spouse does not understand the stress I am going through along with not understanding how it feels to have your independence taken away. I am walking around with a limp right now, until the surgery is done. I am going to do the cadaver procedure. Can anyone offer advise to my spouse on what I am going through? I feel like he is blowing it off as not a big deal, that I am just over reacting. BUT IM THE ONE HAVING IT DONE! Thanks! Dina

Jackie
May 29, 2008 8:58 AM

Janet, Would you be able to tell me who your surgeon was? I am also from Toronto and my son has just been sent to a surgeon at Mt Sinai for ACL and meniscus. My son is a hockey player. Jackie

Kathy
May 29, 2008 10:59 AM

Hi Dina, I had a reconstruction done with a cadaver tendon. You are definitely going to need help with the boys. If it were only you, you could get by after day 2 but not with little ones. Because my meniscus was only torn a little, I did not have to be braced and was able to put full weight on it by day 3 with 1 crutch. I was back at work after 1 week but it hurt! I am 2 1/2 weeks post surgery and I move pretty slowly but without any crutches. I was in a cpm machine for hours each day for the first week, so again, you'll need help with the kids. My kids are teenagers so it wasn't that big of a deal. It was my left knee so I could drive after a week. Tell your husband to read a few of the acl recovery sites online and maybe it'll sink in. Like I've mentioned before, I've had 3 "C" sections and I think this is way worse! My PT said I'll start feeling "normal" (not thinking about my knee all the time) after about 4 mos. I hope it's sooner! Good Luck!

Tessa
May 29, 2008 12:24 PM

Dina, I totally understand where you are coming from. Getting your husband to visit some sites and looking at the surgery is a very good idea. My kids are 6 and 7 and I needed help, especially for the first few weeks as i was not allowed to walk on it at all for almost 3 weeks. I can't imagine going through surgery with young children without help. My friends were awesome. They cooked meals for me and dropped it off, did some errands for me etc. My kids were great too because they are able to be independent in many ways. Advise: ask family and friends (even neighbours) to anticipate you'll need help. You'll definitely suffer from lack of sleep at first. I had to wear that brace (even at bed time) for 7 weeks. I also took pain medicine for 3 weeks. I would go through surgery again any day. It was definitely worth it for me. Keep strong.

Janet Heidker
May 30, 2008 8:51 AM

Hi Jackie, My surgeon is Dr. John Theodoropolus, at Mount Sinai. He was highly recommended to me and I didn't have to wait long for my surgery, and I have no hesitation in recommending him to you. Let me know if you need more information and I will give you my Email address. Good luck to your son.

Holly Marie
May 30, 2008 9:25 AM

Hi, I've posted two times regarding my surgery on May 24. Instead of repeating everything, I simply directed folks to my blog but it appears this forum will not let people do that as neither of my posts were posted.

Joe Zahariuk
May 30, 2008 10:33 AM

I just had my acl and meniscus done 4 days ago. I was putting weight with crutches on it on day 2 and walking slowly with out the crutches on day 3. I don't do it often I just wanted to see how it felt. The swelling is slowly going down. I still have an incision that leaks a bit of water. The surgery is not that bad. I was worried but its really a walk in the park. I was back home in a few hours after the surgery. The pain isn't any worse then when the injury first took place actually its a little less. I have stopped taking the pain killers and only take aspirin to help from blood clots. I have been doing stretches and pretty much can extend my leg all the way. I'd say it gets to 90% extension. I'm wearing my ice therapy unit a lot the more you walk on it the more pain you get the next day I find. I was using one crutch and doing alot of stretches yesterday and had a bit more pain this morning so i'm going to take it easy today. I also had the hamstring graft. Honestly were that was taken hurt more then the acl its self. I guess I'll see how I progress.

Monica
May 31, 2008 12:45 PM

Hi, On April 27th, 08, my horse saddle slipped to the side while I was mounting and I came down on my left knee and it popped and I felt pain. It swelled and I went to the ER where Xrays were done, and nothing was fractured or broken. I could walk slowly with pain, but my knee felt all wrong, so I went for a MRI and that said I had a complete tear of the ACL "chronic", a surface tear of the medial meniscus, marrow edema within the lateral tibial plateau and a popliteal cyst behind my knee. The ortho Dr. said I was to old of a woman for the ACL surgery and that I could lose my leg!!! I have been going to Physical Therapy 2 X's a week and doing a sheet of therapy stretches at home that take 1 1/2 hrs. every day to complete. My knee still feels wrong. I am just 44 years old, not overweight, active and exercise daily on my bow-flex and with my horse. I cannot mount my horse without a mounting block and I am going for a second opinion to another ortho dr. Wednesday June 2. I am very nervous and I want my knee to feel secure again. I am not a good patient, and can't stay still long "a bit hipper" what is the recovery time for a healthy, strong, middle aged woman, determined to mount a horse without a 12 inch step? needing answers, Mobe

seth
May 31, 2008 5:57 PM

its been about 10 days post surgery and i have decent mobility in my knee ,and i was curious if any1 knew when i can expect to walk

lindsey
May 31, 2008 8:12 PM

hi! my names lindsey and im only ten days away from being 3 months post op! i cant wait to start running again. its been a long haul. ive been working hard with physical therapy by myself and my knee feels very good. the only thing is i have scar tissue in the front of my knee that pops around and can make my knee stiff. and kind of catch sometimes. ive heard thats normal tho. i was told that it gets better when im able to get back to normal movements like jogging and jumping around. im so ready to get back in the game. looking forward to volleyball season and i hope all my hard work pays off!

joy
June 1, 2008 12:29 AM

I had Left ACL replacement Nov 7,2007 following an injury at work. I feel as though I had a rather normal recovery and have been back to work for about 6 weeks. Recently (in the past 2 weeks) I am experiencing pain in both knees which almost feels as if it is arthritic accompanied with severe weakness in my legs from my knees down. I am becoming very concerned. The weakness is so severe that at times I need to hold onto furniture to stand. Needing input.

Mary
June 1, 2008 3:21 AM

Dear Monica, You are not to old to have surgery at 44. I'm 51 and tore my acl down hill snow skiing. I waited for a few months to have it repaired after being told that I could just try PT. I knew it didn't feel right, every time I would step it was uncomfortable. It turned out it was the stump of my acl folded over. Now 4 weeks after surgery I'm walking with a slight limp and in PT but seeing improvements most every day. My leg would give out often when I would walk around corners before surgery and was told I could be causing more damage by not having it done. Monica, you are still a young woman with many active years ahead of you. It sounds like you need a new doctor. Try a sports med. doctor. If there are any teams or schools near you ask who they use.

Holly Marie
June 2, 2008 6:49 AM

Monica - Get a new surgeon. "Too old" - that is pure nonsense. He hasn't kept up with new developments. Studies have shown age has nothing to do with deciding whether to have surgery or not. It your ACL is torn and you want to stay active, you probably need surgery. Tell the new surgeon what you want to continue to do after surgery and he will decide what is best for you. I am older than you and just had the surgery (allograrft - I just want to run, do yoga, ride a bike, etc.) last Saturday - as did other women who have posted here and are older than you. Although I will be hobbling, using 1 crutch, I will be going to work tomorrow after my follow up visit with my surgeon. PT the starts on Wed.

Kathy
June 2, 2008 8:32 AM

Monica, I am 48 and had the ACL surgery. You are not too old! I wanted to return to all of my normal activities so reconstruction was my best option. Get another opinion!

Tessa
June 2, 2008 10:55 AM

Betsy. The swelling itself disappeared after a few months. There was some swelling that came and went, depending on how active I had been. Running for me has helped a lot. I have been running on it for one month and have little to no swelling. However, I fell on my bad knee this weekend (slipped on mud) and while I was trying to protect my knee I hurt the outside of the knee and now have a lot of swelling. I am seeing my surgeon tomorrow and hoping all is well.

Tessa
June 2, 2008 10:57 AM

Betsy. The swelling itself disappeared after a few months. There was some swelling that came and went, depending on how active I had been. Running for me has helped a lot. I have been running on it for one month and have little to no swelling. However, I fell on my bad knee this weekend (slipped on mud) and while I was trying to protect my knee I hurt the outside of the knee and now have a lot of swelling. I am seeing my surgeon tomorrow and hoping all is well.

JD
June 2, 2008 11:03 AM

I had my ACL reconstruction done 5 days ago and am still in a large amount of pain. I was worried that I'm not recovering well because a co-worker was up and walking around after 4 days. Looking through the comments here I find it reassuring that some have the same experience as I. Thank you all for your comments!

Crissy
June 3, 2008 2:56 PM

I am about to undergo my SECOND ACL and meniscus surgery. This one is on what was my good knee. :) My questions is this: do I get the patella replacement or the hamstring? I had the patella last time, but have been told the hamstring is better. My husband, however, had the hamstring replacement and said his hamstring has never been the same. What to do? Please let me know of your experience.

Janet Heidker
June 3, 2008 5:14 PM

To Monica, You are not too old for ACL surgery. I tore my ACL in February skiing, and had surgery April 29. I am 55 years old and also very athletic and work out regularly. That is why I had the surgery - get a second opinion. I am recovering according to schedule, but it is a very slow process for PT. FYI, I do my PT exercises 2 times every day, and they take 1 1/2 hours as well. Good luck.

Bo
June 4, 2008 5:54 AM

Hi All...I am 37 years old and will be having my acl done on June 24th on my left knee. I had the same surgery done almost five years ago to the day on my right knee. On that knee I used my pat. as the graft. Had pretty good pain the first two days but it got better each day after that. That knee is great today and if i get the same results I will be very happy. I am going to use a cad/allograft this time. I was just looking for information from anyone who had that done and what the pain was like post op...I have heard different views but for the most part it seems like it is a little less painful. Thanks!

Holly Marie
June 5, 2008 10:51 AM

Post Surgery & Walking: I am almost 2 weeks post surgery and try to walk without the crutch (I carry one with me when I go to work). However, walking is very strained and I need to go very slowly. Was walking like this for everyone else? Also, as to be expected, I've lost my quad and having a difficult time trying to use it during my rehab exercises. I try with all my might to tighten it and nothing happens.

Bianca
June 6, 2008 9:39 AM

Hi everyone! Three weeks and two days post-op Doing very well. I have just slowed down to relax and take the recovery easy. I have been walking without brace or crutches for over a two weeks already...Walking is very slow, I still have major pain in my knee cap if I lift it the wrong way but I am getting around just fine. PT = is going great. I did not have any of those fance machines, (doc doesn't think they are nessecary) I have very little swelling and right on schedule for mobility. I can't imagine if I had something moving my knee right after surgery...I'm happy I got to rest and heal. While I do my PT I try to meditate on the excersise and my knee..I do the excersise with my good knee..and than imagine my bad knee feels the same way and is working to get to the same movement and feeling. I am at about 120 degree bend, and almost straight...PT says the swelling continues to get better with more flexation..your knee isn't moving properly which is what causes it to swell. I did not experiance the pain with the physical therapy and I have about 15 excersises to work on. As for help with children..or even pets, my mom has two yellow labs and it is very difficult to take care of them alone. I would not even think of walking them and they like to walk up to you and clip your leg...be careful. I think picking up children would be very hard the first few months..remember no side movements...and they will hurt to begin with. cheers, bianca

Kathy
June 6, 2008 2:48 PM

Holly, Your 2 week post surgery walking sounds exactly like mine. I am 3 weeks and 2 days post surgery. I gave up the crutch at about 2 weeks. Like you, I was bringing it with me "just in case". On days that I over-do it, I pay the next!!! I just wish the near- constant ache would go away. The PT says I'm doing great...full extension and flexion but it HURTS! The outside of my calf is still a little numb and that bugs me too. All things in due time, I guess.

Debbie S
June 8, 2008 5:58 AM

Hi again everybody! I had my allograft (cadaver) surgery on June 4 and everything went well. The first day I had some pain and nausia, but now I am feeling much better and am off the pain medication. I am walking around slowly with the brace and one crutch and the swelling is going down, slowly but surely. I have 3 exercises to do to strengthen the quads and regain ROM: straight leg raises with the brace, pushing the underside of the knee down on a rolled towel and passive flexion sitting on the edge of the bed and using the other foot as support. Getting into good shape and strengthening the whole body prior to surgery was definitely worth it! And I am really grateful for the tips I read about on this site such as getting a seat for the shower. My follow up visit with the surgeon is on June 17 after which I will start formal physical therapy. I'll be in touch on this site. I like reading how you all are doing!

Claire
June 11, 2008 6:35 AM

Hi All, it's been a long time since I visited this site....Had my ACL surgery April 4th, still off of work and can't imagine going back yet. My work involves long hours of standing. I have been ( still) doing PT 3 days a week! I still have pain in my knee and feel like I always will, the pain seems worse when it is humid out (maybe it's just old age LOL)....still can't kneel on that leg and still have to sleep with a pillow between my legs. This has been a very long recovery process, I know that maybe I am looking for perfection and am very impatient however, Question??? does anyone here ( after 3 months) still experience pain???? nothing unbearable just annoying.. I almost feel as if it will never be normal again... Claire

Paul B
June 11, 2008 6:24 PM

Claire, You are 10 days ahead of me. I had my 49 year old ACL done on April 14th. I still have a very painful knee cap, quite a bit of stiffness if I don't move for a while, and I too sleep with a pillow between my legs. I'm down to 2 PT per week and fortunately I've finally figured out how to contract my quads on my own again. Up until last week, all my PT was concentrated on my weakened Quads. PT says for all practical purposes I now have full ROM and we are spending all PT time on strength and stability. If I over do my exercises, or get put into a position where I have to climb steps, my knee cap will get pretty painful. I just take a Motrin, rest it for a day and go back to exercising the day after As well, I would like to know when I will be able to get down on my knees again and get up from the floor without having to find furnature to help hoist myself back up. My job required a lot of kneeling and time on the ground or the floor. There is no way I could do any of that now.

Christy
June 12, 2008 3:32 AM

Hi Claire, I had my surgery March 27th and have been back to work since mid april. I still have occasional pain and tightness in my knee. I feel as you do...when will I feel normal but each day it seems to get a little better. Unfortuantely I stopped PT around 3 weeks because the co-pay was rediculous so I have been going to the gym each day and riding the stationary bike and elliptical. I also ice every night. We'll get there eventually. Good luck! Question for you- do you where your brace still? I have been using it off and on and am still unclear how much longer its needed.

Aging athlete
June 12, 2008 7:23 PM

Claire, I don't have pain like you do, but I was waking up at 3-4a.m. every night with a steady ache that wouldn't go away. I went to the bodybuilding websites as I know joint pain is a regular issue with that endeavor. One thread recommended flax seed oil daily of up to 5 tablespoons. I was more conservative with 1 tbsp a day and my pain actually went away in 2 days. It is worth a try. I bought Barleans brand from the refrigerated section of the health food store as it is supposed to taste the best. Flax seed oil also goes rancid if you don't refrigerate. Other "alternative" treatments are glucosamine/chrondontin (sp?) supplements recommended by my doctor and PT and a glass of grape juice mixed with a package of unflavored gelatin recommended by my mom. I can't tell if these latter recommendations are making a difference or not, but they're inexpensive and easy. I also like grape juice :-)

Claire
June 13, 2008 5:48 AM

Aging!, Thank you so much I will try flax and will get it today! I feel so good after rehab, then with all of this humidity I think it makes it worse. The doctor did say ( after the surgery) that he found arthritis in my knee and he gave me some drugs for that, so I am sure that dosn't help my situation any, but I am willing to try anything!...every morning, when I get up I walk like I'm 100 years old, then when I do my stretching I feel better, I am so ready to go back to work ( mentally)...but I still can't kneel on that knee and my job is very physical including long hours of standing, sometimes up to 14-15 hrs... and I am not one to just sit around and relax....this was all very hard for me. thanks again for the advice! Claire

Kim
June 16, 2008 8:38 AM

I tore my ACL one month ago. I also tore the meniscus and the MCL. I am still not walking right and can't get full ROM. I have read so much about post-op but there is little about pre-op. Can anyone provide some information about how long it took them to walk normally and how long they had to wait to get surgery? Also, I start PT today but I feel as though maybe my doctor should have had me start pre-op PT soooner....

Ron
June 16, 2008 3:21 PM

Hey Gang, I am new to the club and have had my acl upgrade done 3 days ago, Lots of swelling and moving on crutches slowly, I am noticing some redness and swelling in my lower leg, did anyone have the same challenge after surgery. Also not yet confident in putting too much weight back on the injured leg. will chary progress

Claire
June 17, 2008 6:36 AM

Ron, I had the same thing and my Doctor checked it out and told me it was normal, my whole ankle was swollen and bruised, he said it was blood draining for my knee. It went away pretty fast (few weeks) Claire

Holly Marie
June 17, 2008 7:41 AM

Kim, I tore my ACL in January and did not have surgery until May 24 (http://dcholly.blogspot.com/). I never was able to get full extension due to the ACL stump in the way. That was removed during surgery. Since it's only 3 weeks plus post-surgery, I am still limping and do not have full extension but I hope I will soon. I went to PT for 3 months before surgery and am now going again after surgery. This is a long recovery process both before and after surgery so be patient.

sarah ann
June 17, 2008 10:24 AM

Its nice to read everyone's experiences! I feel like when I talk to people that have never had an ACL repair surgery they just dont understand. I tore my ACL playing beach vball, I came down from hitting the ball and landed wrong. I knew right away what it was, I immediately had a knot in my stomach. I had 2 weeks of pre op PT. I still didnt have my knee straight before the surgery. The 1st week was very hard for me, having the brace on and not being able to move. I was in alot of pain as well. Im on week six and would have never believed that I would be doing this well from how I was feeling up to 3wks after. I am just ready to get out there and start running and playing beach vball again but I know I cant so Im taking it slow. Thanks for everyone sharing their experiences, Its encouraging to me!

Kim
June 17, 2008 11:09 AM

Thanks Holly Marie. Were you or anyone else that you know of able to return to any activities prior to surgery aside from walking? I also golf and was wondering if that should be off limits until post-op recovery. I am curious as to what I might be able to do before surgery but more importantly I don't want to create further damage and want to be as cautious as possible.

Betsy
June 17, 2008 2:00 PM

Hi Kim, I am 4 months post surgery. I tore my ACL and meniscus. I opted for the hamstring and am happy as no risk as with the allograph. Prior to the surgery I had 3 weeks of PT twice a week. By the time I went to surgery I was feeling very good and walking well. The surgery went well and 3 days of recovery I just used all the medication they prescribed. My only advise is follow what your Surgeons requests and use your CPM machine and all your PT. I really feel great! Good Luck!

Stacy
June 17, 2008 4:41 PM

Hello. I had ACL repair, using a donor graft, on June 9th. I, too, have really enjoyed reading all of the stories/entries. They are inspiring, and insightful. I am a very active 35 year old. Prior to the down hill skiing incident, that caused the injury, I ran marathons, biking and enjoyed lifting weights. My advice to anyone considering having this surgery done, is: DO IT!!! I had a friend stay with me the first night afer surgery. I had prepard easy meals, and snacks in advance. Get lots of movies and books. Prepare to relax and keep your foot proped up to reduce swelling, also ICE ICE ICE!! I had PT the day after surgery. They hooked me up to a machine that compressed the joint, and pushed 40 degree water through some hoses. I forget the exact name of the device, but it helped reduce swelling, which helps increase range of motion. I was at 135 degrees range of motion by my 4th post op day. Pain was minimal. I was taking 2 Tylenol every 5 hours. I wore my brace to bed the first night, and pretty much ditched it after 2 days. My PT guy told me I only had to wear it when I was walking around. I am going to start using my stationary bike, (no resistance), 3-5 x/day, for 5-15 minutes, as well as the stretching, strengthing exercises I was advised to do. Keep a journal, so that you are aware of the small advances, and strides being made in the recovery. My PT guy expressed to me that he wishes I had more pain, to slow me down. I wanted to mow the lawn on my 4th post op day. The first 6 weeks all I'm to do is bike, and rest. Allowing my body to start adpoting this new ligamnet. Be patient, and don't over do it. Good luck to anyone having had this surgery, and happy healing to all of you that have posted !! I'd be happy to answer any specific questions any of you may have. Take care, Stacy

dave
June 17, 2008 6:08 PM

Hi everyone, I'm 2 days shy of 3 weeks post op (ACL recon - patellar tendon). I had a complete tear of the ACL and I waited about 6 weeks for surgery. I did 2 weeks of pre-op therapy along with biking during the weekend. Being 32 and pretty fit in general, I felt good going into surgery. I took pain medication for just 2 days after surgery. I used the GameReady cryocuff for 3-4 days. My surgeon and PT are both happy with my recovery so far. I attribute it partially to the fact that I supplemented my regiment with acupuncture which helped a lot with pain and swelling I did find that the surgeon's diagnostic test (pulling on the knee joint) tends to cause damage to my knee which lasts about 4 days. Anyone else notice this? I hope he doesn't do it again at my 6 week checkup!

James
June 17, 2008 6:22 PM

Had my ACL surgery with hamstring on Jun 12th. Didn't have any sickness and pain wasn't as bad as I thought. Ankle swelled up after the 2nd day but I think it's because I didn't have it propped up while sleeping. I'm bending my knee to 80 degrees slowly with no pain but if I do it too fast it'll hurt. I'm so happy how things are going. I hope these are good signs before I start PT tomorrow. Good luck everyone!

Claire
June 18, 2008 6:27 AM

christy, Hi, sorry to hear you had to stop PT! ( I hate insurance companys), at least you can do most of the exercises yourself, get a weight for your ankle to do your leg lifts. They put those on me in PT.... To answer your question, No I never wear my brace, my doctor told me to stop after 1 month, I thought that was a bit to soon, but it worked out. Claire

diydame
June 18, 2008 7:13 AM

Hi All~ Just in from 4 month post-surgery visit. All looks good! Tenderness and swelling at tibial tunnel as expected as the bone growth continues. Discomfort is only noticed when walking and "springing" off the left leg. Icing twice daily. I've been discharged from "formal" PT but will continue to go to the gym and use my at-home weights, ball, and treadmill. Will be fitted for a brace at 6 week appointment for use during cross country skiing and any other activity that involves quick pivoting. To all of you post surgery "newbies"- have patience and keep faithful to your PT.

leigh
June 18, 2008 12:19 PM

hi all, i have had acl reconstruction on my right knee on april 24th using the hamstring tendon, i have had a book to work through when doing the pt.It is ok for the first month to establish movement to walk on and straighten.my question,is what exercise is the best to strengthen the knee muscles and does walking help.does any one recommend a time limit on kneeling down as im a carpenter. as you can tell i have not had much help post op!!!

Bogusia
June 18, 2008 1:10 PM

Hi, could you please explain to me what "full WB and full ROM" mean?

Claire
June 18, 2008 1:45 PM

Paul! Thank you for your input...today is a good day for me not so much in the pain department, would be nice to kneel once in a while but I think that is a long way off yet. I do notice if I lay around alot it gets very stiff, thank God for PT! take care Claire

Debbie S
June 19, 2008 9:06 AM

Hi Kim, I tore my ACL on Feb. 24 and just had allograft surgery on June 4. The doctor recommended waiting 8 weeks before operating since they have found that the grafts hold better after that amount of time (I waited a little longer because of other circumstances). However, I didn't have the other injuries (meniscus, MCL) that you did, so that may be different. I was able to walk normally about 3 weeks after the injury, but I also made a conscious effort to do so, and I was lucky enough not to have pain or too much swelling. One thing that helped me a lot prior to surgery was riding the stationary bike. If you can find one where the arms move it is even better. Using the bike was recommended by the doctor and PTs. It is also important, prior to surgery to strengthen the quadraceps and hamstrings muscles as much as possible. I would recommend getting specific exercises from a PT and doing them every day. I would even recommend core strengthening while you're at it. Good luck and be strong!

arielle
June 19, 2008 7:54 PM

I just had ACL and miniscus surgery this morning. It seemed to have gone well and took about 2 hours. I then hung out in the holding room for two hours and experienced little pain and was trained on crutches. I even walked without my crutches a bit today, but as the day went on it was a little sore so im using them again. My tear happened 3 months ago playing soccer. About a month later, I was walking fine and biking a bit but it would get kind of sore when overused at one of my jobs where I stand for sometimes 10 hours at a time. I have a friend who said she was running before her surgery - she is very athletic. Im now taking Oxycodone every 3 or 4 hours. I keep hearing that you can "get behind" your pain meds and I fear this is going to happen. Did anyone have any experience with this? Thanks! Arielle

Debbie S
June 22, 2008 10:47 AM

Hello again, Did anyone experience sharp pain radiating up to the hip after doing flexion exercises? This just started happening now 2.5 weeks after surgery. Extention is also painful right after the flexion exercises. The pain gets better after resting for about 30 min. But, I'm almost afraid to do those flexion exercises now. Anyone know anything about this?

claire
June 22, 2008 12:30 PM

Debbie! Yes!, 2 1/2 weeks after I had pain!( 4 mo. later) I still have diffenent pains. I will tell you that the only time I feel really good is after working out and PT appointments. You have to keep it moving and it does get better! believe me....good luck Claire

Debbie S
June 22, 2008 2:47 PM

Thank you so much Claire!!

janine chamberlin
June 23, 2008 6:32 PM

June 23, 2008 I am post op two weeks. I had an acl and meiscus repair, but today i fell and heard a pop. i think i tore it again. pretty depressing. Has anyone torn the acl after surgery? If so how did it go for you?

Joe
June 24, 2008 6:27 AM

Im heading in for my acl surgery august 4th....i tore my acl about 11 months ago playing basketball in a college league...i worked full time as a sous chef in a restaraunt at the time and couldnt afford to take any time off. I changed jobs in february and of course insurance coverages changed as well. So i needed to wait until august for my insurance to cover the surgery....Ive been athletic my whole life....this past year or so has been a bore....i used play ball at least 3 nites a week rain or shine....before the tear i was 165 lbs since last july i have gained 25 lbs and not good weight either...my eating regimnet stayed the same now i just realize how much my metabolism was affected by my active life style. I am nervouse but relieved that surgery is coming up does anyone here have any reason to belive i shouldnt be ready for sports again by next april? And any other tips from athletes dealing with there FIRST major injury like myself how did you deal with it physically and psycologically? Cross your fingers

Kim
June 24, 2008 7:39 AM

Joe, I was very active like you and I have been worried about gaining weight as well. I used to play soccer, and basketball and work out 3-4 times a week. It's been 5 weeks since my injury. I have been doing the stationary bike at least 4 times a week and still lifting for my upper body. I plan on getting an elliptical as well. If you have access to a gym you can still do straight-line excercises -a bike, elliptical, treadmill. I know it's only been 5 weeks but I have managed to not gain any weight. Even if you don't have access to equipment you could probably try brisk walking 3-4 times a week. I'm not sure if you usually eat healthy but you might want to try to cut back on calories to make up for the loss of activity (without being unhealthy of course) I've been having a tough time as well but I just keep thinking that it's only for a period of time, eventually I will get back to my old self! : )

Trevor
June 24, 2008 8:16 PM

Kim and Joe, My story is almost an identical combination of both of yours. I tore my acl while playing basketball in a college league. It has been almost 2 months since it happened. I am going in for surgery June 26th. Up until now I have been doing what Kim has been doing, using an elliptical, as well as a stationary bike, and continuing to lift with my upper body 3-4x per week, with no harm to my knee. However, I have been trying to steer clear of treadmills because of the impact it puts on the knee. I have managed to keep about the same weight and have actually gone pretty hard on the elliptical this past week in order to pre-makeup for what is going to be lost time post-surgery. I will definitely be cutting back on the calories post-surgery. I am not used to going more then a week without playing basketball or soccer at least once and hitting the gym at least 3x. It is going to kill me to be out like this but I am glad to be getting it out of the way sooner then later. Best of luck to both of you, and I will be posting as much as possible in the coming days after post-op.

John
June 25, 2008 2:20 AM

Hi - I had my ACL replacement surgery in London about 7 weeks ago using the patella graft method. This followed a numbe rof soccer related injuries. The surgery was the easy bit! I had no pain thanks to a great blocker they injected into my groin. Whatever that stuff was it worked fine - get it if you can! I only used minor pain meds for about three days then stopped as soon as I could. I had to have some fluid drained out of the knee after four weeks as this was interfering with the flexing and movement. The hardest part is the physiotherapy. I get a lot of aches in and around the knee and had to stop a session with weights yesterday because I felt some popping in the knee. The physio seems OK with it but it worries me that I get a lot of ache and pain. Its hard to know what levels of pain to expect day to day.

John
June 25, 2008 2:21 AM

Hi - I had my ACL replacement surgery in London about 7 weeks ago using the patella graft method. This followed a numbe rof soccer related injuries. The surgery was the easy bit! I had no pain thanks to a great blocker they injected into my groin. Whatever that stuff was it worked fine - get it if you can! I only used minor pain meds for about three days then stopped as soon as I could. I had to have some fluid drained out of the knee after four weeks as this was interfering with the flexing and movement. The hardest part is the physiotherapy. I get a lot of aches in and around the knee and had to stop a session with weights yesterday because I felt some popping in the knee. The physio seems OK with it but it worries me that I get a lot of ache and pain. Its hard to know what levels of pain to expect day to day.

Betsy W
June 25, 2008 4:15 AM

Bogusia~ "full WB" means weight bearing, a term used post surgery when your surgeon describes how much weight you are able to put on your surgery leg. Usually for the week after surgery, WB is minimal. "Full ROM" refers to range of motion. That is a term used to describe the patient's ability to completely straighten (extension) and bend (flexion) the knee. Both extension and flexion are measured in degrees, like you would measure an angle or straight line. Full extension is 0 degrees. Full flexion is accepted at around 130. Both are generally attained 6-8 weeks post surgery.

MikeN
June 25, 2008 2:40 PM

I am going in for ACL Surgery on 6/26/08. I tore my acl on march 9th riding my dirt-bike. I went back and forth on if I wanted to have or wait to have surgery, but I had it pop on me walking down the stair in May and I was on the phone the next day to schedule the surgery. Over the last 3-4 months my knee has restricted me a lot more than I expected. I have a Don-Joy custom knee brace, which provided great protection against further injury, but even something as playing softball was difficult because of the restriction in movement. I will be having a hamstring graft method. My first PT is scheduled for 6/30/08 and we will see how it goes. I am not to worried about the surgery or rehab, but just looking forward to getting it behind me.

Donna
June 26, 2008 7:15 AM

Hi all- My 16 year old son is having ACL surgery 7/1/08 and a major concern I'm having is the depression that seems to be setting in. He's been a very active teen, involved in school sports and had to give up his spot on a travel baseball team for this. Now fears that his summer will be reduced to nothing. Any suggestions on how I can help him?

claire
June 27, 2008 8:32 PM

John, I had the same exact procedure you did, the groin block, that was great, I had the surgery in april and still going to rehab 3 days a week. I still have pain right under the scar and just a little bit of a problem using stairs yet. it sure is a long recovery process......Claire

James
June 29, 2008 8:43 PM

Hey everyone! Had my ACL surgery on June 12th using the hamstring. Everything went great! Within a week I was already at 120 degrees flexion (now 130) and stopped using the crutches after about a week and a half. Going to my 6th physical therapy appt tomorrow. I'd like to answer many questions on here but my comments aren't showing up so far. Just thought I'd try again. Good luck everyone! I'll be praying for you all! James

Trevor
June 30, 2008 10:10 AM

So I had my ACL repair surgery on 6/26/08. I used the hamstring graft method. It has now been 4 days. Everyday has been an improvement with what I can do with it, with large improvements coming after the second day of recovery, and consistently improving from there. I got the surgery done on a Thursday and by Saturday I was walking around the house, with and without the brace. Keep in mind this was a slow walk and I was carrying crutches just in case, but nonetheless was walking. I felt well enough to leave the house for the first time on Sunday to attend a family gathering. I tried my best to not use crutches the entire time, but towards the end of the day was getting a little tired in my knee. I feel that I am healing quite well. From the day I got home from the hospital I was using every moment possible to do my leg raises and foot movements, and feel it has helped quite a lot. (20yrs old)

Janet Heidker
July 1, 2008 6:08 AM

Donna ~ ACL injury and post op can be depressing - it was for me when I tore it skiing and then again when I had to learn how to walk and experienced lots of back pain. Just tell your son that as long as he is diligent with his PT program, he will be fine -and he will - he is only 16 - I am 55. It is July 1 today and I am thinking about him - after the first few days he will be well on his way to recovery. I am now 9 weeks post op. I am down to 1 PT a week but I see a chiropractor 2 times a week for acupuncture, muscle stimulation and agressive release therapy - wonderful stuff for an ACL patient. My chiro is also a former ACL patient himself, so he knows just what to do. I can walk up and down (that is the hard part) stairs OK and will return to the gym today for my first proper workout. I no longer feel I am disabled as I walk properly - no limp. I do my exercises twice a day almost every day, and that is the key. I have full extension and 120 flexion. It is all uphill but it takes lots of patience. Good luck - Janet

Andy K
July 2, 2008 1:56 AM

I had an ACL reconstruction and 2 repairs to my miniscus on July 23rd of this year. so 6 weeks on i am progressing along at a slow but steady pace. I injured the knee initially about 2 years ago during a martial arts tournament but it seemed to recover after a bit of TLC. I again injured the same knee a year on from that and again i recovered fine after a couple of weeks. Eventually after banging it again i went to the docs and was diagnosed with a torn miniscus. I went through examinations and mri scans and they found the damage to the ACL and recommended the op. The first couple of days were bad, the pain was quite relentless, even after a femoral block and pain killers! After that though pain is minimal and just every now and then when i try something im not supposed to do! Like driving.. I had my first gym session this morning and have been back on a bike! (only a static gym bike though). I cannot wait to get back on my own bike and active again. To anyone who needs this op and anyone who is going through it. Take your time and do your exercises every day and don't get depressed about the abscence of exercise in your life, there is light at the end of the tunnel. It was great to read about other peoples experiences and realising i wasn' the only one going through a really challenging time. It all helps. Thanks...

Andy K
July 2, 2008 1:56 AM

I had an ACL reconstruction and 2 repairs to my miniscus on July 23rd of this year. so 6 weeks on i am progressing along at a slow but steady pace. I injured the knee initially about 2 years ago during a martial arts tournament but it seemed to recover after a bit of TLC. I again injured the same knee a year on from that and again i recovered fine after a couple of weeks. Eventually after banging it again i went to the docs and was diagnosed with a torn miniscus. I went through examinations and mri scans and they found the damage to the ACL and recommended the op. The first couple of days were bad, the pain was quite relentless, even after a femoral block and pain killers! After that though pain is minimal and just every now and then when i try something im not supposed to do! Like driving.. I had my first gym session this morning and have been back on a bike! (only a static gym bike though). I cannot wait to get back on my own bike and active again. To anyone who needs this op and anyone who is going through it. Take your time and do your exercises every day and don't get depressed about the abscence of exercise in your life, there is light at the end of the tunnel. It was great to read about other peoples experiences and realising i wasn' the only one going through a really challenging time. It all helps. Thanks...

MikeN
July 2, 2008 8:53 AM

Hi All, I had my ACL surgery on June 26 and so far so good. The first two days were ok, day 3 was the worst because the nerve blocker wore off. I have started PT and doing exercises at home. The PT at home goes ok, but it is tough to have the same intensity and consentration that I have at the PT office. One of the PTers said he had ACL Surgery about 2 years ago and said it feels just as solid as the other knee now. I go back to the Dr on the 7th and have the stiches taken out and get to see what the Doc has to say. Hope your sons surgery on the 1st went ok, some of that is just youth, tell him he will be doing great by the end of the summer (which can seem like a live-time at that age). I have been taking Lortab for pain, about 6 to 7 per day. I also write it down whenever I take a pill or do any exercise, ice etc. It helps me keep track of everything and any progress. Hope everyone is doing well. MN

Kathy
July 3, 2008 6:21 AM

Hey all! Seven weeks post op for acl reconstruction with allograft and I am walking pretty normally. Not too much pain. My left calf is still numb and my left leg is weak but I think it always was! I still go to PT 2x/wk. I was on the floor painting floor boards yesterday. I was sore but it made me feel like I am definitely progressing. Hope everyone continues to do well. Kathy

Betsy W
July 3, 2008 12:17 PM

Shall we all welcome Tiger Woods to our esteemed group? Here I am, 4 1/2 months post surgery and now experiencing muscle spasms which are crippling! Doctor says not uncommon and I may need to return to crutches! Anybody else experience these? It is a sharp pain in the front of the lower leg to the outside, just below the knee. I'm sitting here with ice now and the doctor says to use whatever is necessary- ice, heat, massage, compression hose, tylenol- Red Stripe Jamaican Lager ;-)- to ease the pain and swelling. Comments??

Alason
July 4, 2008 6:41 AM

Dear All, I have been reading comments on here since my daughter tore her ACL playing highschool soccer in April. I appreciate all the comments. My daughter is a fine athlete and plans to continue after she completes her (at least 6 - 8 months) of PT. After a great amount of research and 3 Drs opinions, she, her Dad and myself all agreed that using a cadaver would be the best option. She had the surgery May 29th and all is going well. The hardest part is a 15 year old adjusting emotionally to no sports. Has anyone done any homeopath related to torn ACL? I have heard that traumeel, collogen are good?

Trevor
July 5, 2008 9:53 PM

It has been exactly one week and two days since my ACL repair (hamstring graft) surgery. I no longer need crutches, and don't really need the knee brace anymore either to walk. I am now walking with really no limp at all, with the way things are going by Monday (1 week, 4 days from surgery) I feel I will be walking at a normal pace like nothing had ever happened. My question is, from what it seems mot people have started physical therapy right away. My doctor doesn't want to see me until a full 2 weeks post surgery, and said we will talk PT at that meeting. Are my assumptions right that most people have started PT sooner then I? I am worried that I should be doing more then just laying leg raises. (20yrsold)

Nick
July 6, 2008 4:56 AM

Hi all, I just had a hamstring ACL reconstruction on the 1 July, was in hospital for two nights and had the femoural block aswell which I agree helps to limit the pain. Its now 5 days on and its all going well (I think). I must say I'm a little surprised at the speed of recovering, as I'm getting about on crouches and bending with aid of brace - no problems; however with that said, I'm still quite swollen around the knee so yesterday I decided to spend more time doing 'RICE'. As for dealing with the lack of activity - yes its difficult but I'm trying to break the day down into 1hour blocks which seems to be working i.e. 1hr of dvd, 1hr or reading, 1hr of moving around and exercises...

Debbie S
July 6, 2008 7:14 AM

Hi Betsy, sorry to hear about the muscle spasms. Now, 1 month postop, I must say that perhaps the worst part of recovery is the setbacks. Seems that just when progress is being made, a new ache or pain starts up. Hope you feel better soon.

Neal
July 7, 2008 11:10 AM

Hi all, I am having acl op using my hamstring and also having the cartlidge trimed on 1/08/08. I am a 41 year old bricklayer. My surgeon said i wont be working for at least 6 weeks. Does anyone have any comments as being self employed i worried about to much time off. Best wishes to you all.

Betsy W
July 7, 2008 4:27 PM

Neal~ I'm 4 1/2 months post op and still can't kneel on the surgery knee. I found my surgeon to be very vague about giving a timetable returning to activity as each patient heals differently. I was still on crutches until 10 weeks. I would guess at least 3 months. And that's if everything goes smoothly. Good luck with your surgery!

Claire
July 7, 2008 7:41 PM

Neal, Good luck, really..because (just my opinion) I dont see how you will be able to kneel I am 4 months post op and still can't kneel on that knee. But then again everyone is different good luck to you. Claire

Andrew
July 9, 2008 12:25 PM

hey everyone... i had acl reconstruction on monday at 3pm. it is now wednesday at 3pm. my doctor (at HSS in nyc) used the hamstring tendon method. i am now in wv recovering so to make the trip bearable, my anesthesiologist gave me a femoral nerve block that wore off sometime yesterday. i didnt sleep monday night and tuesday was a tough 6 hr trip in the back of the car, but once i got home and was able to get on a schedule of icing, CPM, and painkillers, i've had marked improvement. unfortunately, i injured my meniscus almost to the point of no repair, so i'm on crutches with no weight bearing for 3 weeks! this kills me b/c i was very active with weight lifting and sports (i hurt it playing soccer and was lifting up until the day before the surgery), but i think my activity levels before the surgery have already and will continue to help me in recovery. the only pain i really have now while laying down is at the tendon incision site, so i expect to be able to start my exercises tonight and be in good shape when i see the doctor in 3 weeks. the key is to just prepare before surgery with PT and as much activity as possible and to ice, elevate, and eat properly after surgery to aid your body in repairing the damage. i have faith i'll be back to normal in 5-6 months - if it doesnt happen, i assure you i'll be back with my horror stories. good luck everyone!

Paul B
July 9, 2008 9:33 PM

Neal, I'm a 49 year old cable TV installer. I had ACL (allograft) and a meniscus trim 12 weeks ago on April 14th. This week I hit a big milestone. I've been able to sit down on the floor and get up without using any additional support. I can kneel down on the other knee, but I wouldn't think of putting any pressure on the operated knee. I accidentally went down to a full squat because I forgot that I couldn't do that. It was pretty painful at the bottom of the squat, and getting up from that squat was kind of painful as well. I wouldn't want to do that again for at least a few more weeks. I went to the baseball stadium this week and walked up the stairs and back down after the game. This as well was a big accomplishment. I'm finally walking without a limp for the first time. After 12 weeks I've come a long way, but I'm still looking for work currently that doesn't require climbing, crawling or squating. I hope that your progress is quick. Good luck.

Susie
July 10, 2008 12:42 PM

I just had meniscus repair a week ago and i'm going to have my ACL repaired in about 5 weeks time. I'm a bit worried about my recovery time as I will be going on a London to Sydney flight 4 weeks after the op - I want to be pretty mobile by then - do you think this is possible? I don't want to be on crutches!! I hate crutches!!!

MikeN
July 11, 2008 7:55 AM

Neal, I had ACL surgury on June 26 so as of yesterday it had been two weeks. The first week was crutches and brace, but as of today I can walk without either, but my leg is immobile. I made a huge improvement the second week. I don't know when I would be able to do something like bricklaying, but I would be stunned if I could do in in two more weeks, (4 weeks total), so I think the 6 week estimate is reasonable. I am 42 and in good shape so it should give you an idea. I would also recommend strengthening your good leg post-surgery. I did and it helps a a cheater for my bad leg. MN

joan
July 13, 2008 4:31 PM

Hi - I am scheduled for surgery on July 17. I "exploded" my knee playing soccer: acl, lcl, mcl, meniscus and cartilidge damage. Has anyone experienced a procedure known as "micro-fracture"? I am seriously worried about pain following surgery. Does anyone have any tips for getting over the fear? Thanks, Joan

Kash
July 13, 2008 7:04 PM

Hi All I tore my ACL a couple of months back. I have a appointment for second opinion tomorrow. I am really scared of the post surgery pain and recovery process. I am finding it diffcult to make the decision on when to go for surgery.. Would appreciate advise to make the decision easier. Kash

Chere Smith
July 14, 2008 11:02 AM

Hi all, haven't posted a message in a while, but I hope all is well with everyone! I am going strong 12weeks post-op and I must say the anxiety has finally worn off. I'm getting sized for a custom brace tomorrow. I can actually put some pressure on the operated knee but not too much, still have a little bit of pain every once now and then, but I maintaining a positive attitude so I can get back to playing flag football soon. Chere-Dallas,TX

Greg from California
July 14, 2008 12:39 PM

I blew out my ACL skiing in 1982. I have been fairly active throughout the years. I have done some marathons but have never skied again. My golf game went to heck having developed a bad slice from pushing the ball. At the time there were several options. I am grateful to have had a Doctor who had worked on several members of the USA ski team. He used an autograft from my patella tendon. Two weeks ago I felt something tear while twisting w/ my knee weight loaded while I was carrying a heavy object. The knee is less swollen now. I am wearing a patella tendon band which is cutting down on the pain to some degree. The MRI is scheduled for later in the week. The knee is unstable as I am not able to go down stairs easily or put any weight on the knee while it is flexed. I think the ACL is torn. I am leaning toward an auto harvest off my hamstring rather than making an incision on my good knee and harvesting a portion of the patella tendon there. Does anyone have expereince with having ACL replaced o the same knee TWICE?

Betsy W
July 14, 2008 2:41 PM

Greg, I'd do a bit of research online about a second reconstruction before making any decision. There isn't much space for a second set of holes to be drilled and I don't think a second reconstruction is as successful as the first surgery. Consider an allograft where the tissue comes from a donor if the second surgery can be performed. The healing time is quicker. Good luck!

Kash
July 14, 2008 5:30 PM

Hi All I have a torn ACL since the last three months. I have been recommended a surgery for reconstruction of the ACL. I am pretty scared and nervous about it and not able to decide on doing the surgery . How much pain is it after the surgery ? Can we live with it? Which method should i choose? Pls advise.

sean
July 15, 2008 2:16 PM

I am 5 weeks post acl (hamstring) I used the crutches the first week, leg brace 2 weeks. Then performed the standing up on just bad leg from seated position a week ago, but I think it will be at least 6 months to get back to anything like normal. As for kneeling, not too bad if you take it slowly.

anonymous
July 16, 2008 11:18 AM

I just had my acl reconstructed on 7/11. I was able to walk the day of the surgery (but chose not to) and made the mistake of walking too far on 7/14. I kicked the pain meds two days after, but forgot to take Aleve last night and really hurt today! About the microfracture: I could be dead-on wrong, but I think that's similar to a bone bruise. You must have really hit the ground hard. The bad news, that pain isn't going to go away for over eight months. It won't be a nagging pain or anything like that, but you'll feel that when you're out running, etc. I wish you the best of luck. I hope I'm wrong about your microfracture, but when I did my MCL, lateral meniscus and bruised the bone last year, the bone took the longest to heal and was by far the most painful of the three. I've heard of people tearing their ACLs over three times. In women, cadavers frequently fail, so those who opt to go that route risk having to go in for a second operation.

Bill
July 16, 2008 9:18 PM

I am 10 weeks post op from ACL surgery and a 20 mm tear to my meniscus. I had 7 stiches to repair the meniscus. My ACL seems to be healing nicely, however I'm experiencing clicking when I try to extend my knee to walk and it doesn't seem stable. Has anyone gone thru this and if so how long will it take for my knee to return to normal?

Debbie S
July 19, 2008 1:27 PM

Anonymous, I think you may be wrong about the bone bruising. I had bone bruising from the injury and didn't have any pain at all (didn't have any pain at all from the injury, actually, just instability). The surgeon said that bone bruising heals itself, so in that case Joan wouldn't need a "procedure" (I didn't). Check out "microfracture" through google, for example, and you will get an explanation of the procedure. I have heard of people tearing their ACL again after op, but not necessarily because they had cadaver grafts, and not necessarily women.

amy
July 19, 2008 5:20 PM

i tore my ACL (feb 4th 2008 day after my birthday... god is messing with me!!! hahaha... anyways) i am a very active girl and just as competitive & fast like a guy and never accept defeat and seriously, i thought i was invincible. and everyone who ive played sports with didnt believe me when i told them i tore my ACL cause... hahaha you would understand if youve met me i can take anything i really dont feel much physical pain i just jump up and get back into the game ... ive just been able to go the the ped. orthopedic doctor yesterday and they told me i def tore my ACL and cartalige this has been the longest 5months almost 6months of my life because what i loved the most i lost and i didnt know what to do, sports is all ive ever known and just seeing or hearing anything with a ball involved makes me ache even seeing a t-shirt from a sports program ... well the doctor told me recovery time is 6 - 12 months... i cant wait that much more longer. i hate running but,, you never know what you have till its all gone. so my point,,, does anyone know how to make the recovery time shorter so i can get back into my beloved sports as soon as possible?

Betsy W
July 19, 2008 6:35 PM

Kash~ I don't think the pain is all that bad after the surgery. The worse day is typically the 2nd or 3rd day. The first week there is a heaviness/throbbing when you stand or walk. Every patient is different, but I was off narcotics at day 5, just using Tylenol. It's the rehab process that takes FOREVER, or so it seems. Physical therapy becomes your life, both at the therapist's and your home program. Eliminating crutches doesn't mean you'll feel fabulous and be completely mobile. And then there are the periodic set backs that seem to pop up just when you are feeling good. The recovery time is, at a minimum, 6-8 months. And for the first couple of weeks, you are quite dependent upon others to help. But just knowing that your knee is now stable makes everything worth it. Mine was so weak, it would come out while pushing a loaded grocery cart into the next aisle. Of course, if you've every been tempted to try those electric carts at the supermarket or department store, now's your chance ;-) And Amy, use this time to develop another interest rather than obsessing that playing sports is temporarily not an option. Focus on more positive things, start a new hobby, take a class online, - there's plenty out there, just broaden your mind a bit beyond sports. It will make the time pass quicker.

Karl
July 20, 2008 4:17 PM

Hello, I had an allograft acl reconstruction 5 weeks ago. I have full extension and flexion but when I do one legged knee bends I have sharp pains right below my knee cap. Has anyone else experienced this type of pain?`

mike
July 20, 2008 11:15 PM

i tore my acl playing lacrosse may 9th, and got acl reconstruction surgery june 10th. the pain was intense the day of surgery and the next two or three days, but the pain was almost completely gone after a week. i was off crutches after two weeks, and off of the brace after three. in a few days i will be post-surgery for 6 weeks, and i am completely pain free and my knee seriously feels as if it were new. obviously this is not true and i cannot start serious activities for a few months, and this is very hard to have this type of self control. good luck to all.

mike
July 20, 2008 11:18 PM

to amy: i am just like you and sports is my entire life and it is unbearable to even watch or think about sports at times and i symphathize with you. i am under the impression that strengthening the knee before surgery is very important (quad sets, bike, leg raises, etc.). After surgery you have to follow the rehab exactly and work as hard as they allow you to. besides that what's done is done and it is practically out of your hands

Kim
July 21, 2008 6:59 AM

Has anyone ever had the allograft and had it not take? I am scheduled for surgery the first week of September and have opted for the cadaver ACL. My doctor does both and said it shouldn't matter, that there are pros and cons to each. He said if he had to nudge me one way it would be towards the autograft but I still opted for the allograft. Can anyone provide any feedback?

Stacy
July 21, 2008 7:17 PM

Dear Amy...have your ACL surgically repaired (allograft)(I'm 35.) It is soooooo worth it. I, myself, am very active ( have run 10 marathons, triathalons) I enjoy sports, and being active. I put off surgery for 2 years, and now that I have had it done, wish I would have done it sooner. It will provide you with the stability you need to get back to the sports you enjoy. Good Luck!!!

clint
July 22, 2008 10:58 AM

hello everyone i tore my acl three years ago playing baseball and iam having surgery in two days july 24. iam having the hamsting procedure done because the surgeon said that i have strong mucle mass in my legs and that should be the way to go.anyways i was wondering if anyone had that prosedure done and if they knew the pros and cons about the hamstring because iam a full time firefighter and play alot of baseball in the summer and would hate to damage it all over again because that could be the end of my firefighting career.

Kathy
July 24, 2008 1:53 PM

yikes....I am 10 or 11 weeks post acl w/allograft reconstr. I took a week vacation at the beach and somehow tripped/fell/turned. My knee swelled up some and I had that initial rupture feeling. The PT did the lackman (whatever) test and said everything is intact. i go to the dr Aug 4. I am so terrified that I tore my new acl or maybe the mcl or pcl. The pt reassured me and said take it easy, ice it, re-build your confidence (I now have none!) Has anyone else had this experience at 10 or 11 weeks. I am walking really well. No pain but "going down with the good knee and up with the bad knee" really makes me lose any little bit of confidence I once had. Rats!! Any comments will be appreciatiated! Keep it up knee warriors!

steve
July 25, 2008 5:28 AM

I had my op 5 months ago and have been told I can do twisting sports training but not any contact sport. I started doing some training involving turning and my knee has slightly inflamed and I noticed a bruise behind my knee. Anyone know what this could be? I'm going back to physio to have it looked at but I'm a little scared now! Other than that, everything has gone fine and I've been running and been active, just nothing involving turning.

Jason M
July 25, 2008 12:14 PM

Hey fellow ACL killers. :-) I tore my left ACL in mid-Jan. '08 running a post pattern in flag football and the ball sailed high and behind me. Superman me actually tried to catch the dang thing. I started from the left side of the field and was running diagonally upfield field and to the right. As the ball went by, I had my left foot planted in front of me and forcefully twisted towards my right shoulder to try and one hand catch the ball with my right hand. I heard the infamous "pop" and crumpled to the ground. After about 5 minutes I was able to get my leg fully straight and that provided relief from the pain. In brief though: two doctors did not think I actually tore my ACL because it never really swelled up and the Lachman test concluded that it was fine. MRI showed otherwise. I had the surgery on March 12th and used my hamstring as the graft. The first few days and the first 2 weeks were very painful, more so than the actual injury. I HATED the brace, I used it for like two weeks and I only used the crutches for two weeks also. I just got up from the couch and tried walking without and never looked back. I would not necessarily suggest that. I did walk with a cane for a week or two when I knew I would be up for a long time. SUGGESTIONS: Build up your thigh muscles as much as you can before the surgery and know that getting passive movement with your knee soon after the surgery is king. Then you work on active motion. Finally, the worst pain I've ever experience in my life was from the bruising I had after the surgery. I guess not many people actually had this happen, because I have not heard anyone mention it. It was like I bled/bruised all down the inside of my left leg and some even down by my ankle. Whenever I stood up, blood would rush back through that area and it felt like my leg was on fire. I broke down crying a few times from that. I pray you never have that experience. AMY, if you've read this far, have the surgery. You find other ways to keep your strength up which helps long term and I have come to appreciate strategy and studying the nuances of sports so much more. After four months I started playing a couple of points of ultimate frisbee again and I was actually a bit better because I was more like a veteran and thinking ahead. I ddidn't have/don't have any of my speed or endurance back, but I am looking forward to September when our competitive league starts up. CLINT, the only negative that I have had with the hamsting is that they cut in the front just under my knee cap to get to the hamstring. I don't understand why they did it, but apparently they cut there and then slid under my skin around to the back. Well, I think that part of my skin will always be a bit sensitive. When I touch it I have the same sensation of touch a gauz pad to an open wound. Really weird. Besides that, I am thrilled with my hamstring and how solid my knee is. STEVE, I had a similar experience where I all of a sudden noticed a bruise spot on the back of my knee months after the surgery. It doesn't hurt and it has been there for a couple of more months now, so our assumption is that it was just always there after the surgery and we just noticed it later. Hope this helps a bit. I haven't had anyone close to me go through this so it's nice to share a bit with the rest of you. Thank you.

miche
July 25, 2008 4:27 PM

hi, i tore my ACL and lateral meniscus in april and had the hamstring replacement on june 11. it's now 6 weeks post op and i had been doing really, really well with PT and recovery up until today. yesterday, like an idiot, i went on a three mile walk and today i am feeling sharp pain on my meniscus when i do a simple walk. i hope i didn't really injure myself :-(

AK
July 26, 2008 3:50 AM

I have had the hamstring acl reconconstruction and it went fine. I train in martial arts and i have been told i cannot fight again for at least a year. I am doing fitness training in the gym and coaching students but no fighting/sparring is allowed just yet. I think the slower you take it now the stronger the fix will be in the future. I m about 9 weeks down the line and am pleased with my progress. But all the same it is very frustrating watching whilst mates pursue sports you wished you could do..its all about the patience...Clint, hope you go ok, keep us updated.

MikeN
July 26, 2008 12:07 PM

Hi all, I tore my acl on March 9 and had surgery on June26, so I am a little over 4 weeks. Most of my physical therapy has been riding the bike, I still dont have full extension, but other than that my leg has good non-weight bearing movement. I feel I am a little behind pace in recovery and that part of the reason is that I am 42 and building the muscle back is more difficult. I fluctuated between surgery or not and am glad I had it done. I would say 5-6 months is a good recovery window for full athletics, but everyone is different. There is the initial recovery process from the surgery, but the physical recovery process is really more driven by your effort in physical therapy than the actual surgery. Hope everyone is doing well, I do wish my scars looked a little better :-(

john
July 28, 2008 1:11 AM

I am a tennis pro and tore my acl June 28 landing from an overhead. I had the surgery july22 and am 5 days post surgery(hamstring procedure). I cannot do much still going to the restroom is alot of work. I am up to 80 degrees on the cpm and it feels great on the machine. The main pain I have is when I stand with the crutches it feels like my brace is 200 pounds. The pressure is unbearable! To the person that said they walked days after surgery I find that very hard to believe. It is getting better and I start pt Wednesday after my post op appointment the 29th.

Britt
July 28, 2008 9:21 PM

Hey, i also recently tore my acl and some cartilage. i am starting physical therapy tommorow, and kind of nervous! I injured it playing outdoor soccer at a camp, when a girl ran straight into the side of my knee, causing it to twist and pop, and then i fell to the ground and couldn't get back up-7/7/08! Surgery was on 7/14/08, with the hamstring graft and i guess just trimming of the cartilage. I slept over night at the hospital and took Vikodin for about three days. Now it is two weeks later and I am still on crutches wearing the straight leg brace, and taking no medicine-ick! I started doing some excercises at home, and slight bending of my knee. I don't know what to do though, because my leg is locked and won't go any higher than about 7 inches off the ground, without feeling like it is going to tear or be extremely painful-any tips, did this happen to you?

Ryan A
July 29, 2008 5:07 AM

Hi, This site has given lots of information. I had my meniscus removed in April, and now am having ACL reconstruction tomorrow july 30. I injured my knee playing basketball in january, and then after few weeks of resting it, i thoguht my knee was fine. So i went to play just a casual game of volleyball. I jumped up and landed on someones foot, and thats when I finally went to the doctors. I'm guessing I tore my meniscus, the second time around. I have decided to go with the allograft. Will update in a few days post surgery...

Betsy W
July 30, 2008 5:11 AM

Karl~ Those sharp pains under your knee cap may be muscle spasms. One may also notice them on the front of the leg but to the outside. They come very suddenly and feel like the lower leg is giving way. This is your body's response to using muscles that have been "on vacation". My spasms began a month ago (which was 4 months post op) and tend to be brought about with lateral movement and weight shifting activity. Massage, heat, ice, Biofreeze, and Tylenol do help. I'd suggest mentioning them to your surgeon for a definite diagnosis.

Holly Marie
July 30, 2008 11:04 AM

Ryan, I too opted for the allograft. I had my surgery the end of May. You can read about how I am doing on my blog: http://dcholly.blogspot.com/.

Jayesh Ametha
July 31, 2008 6:58 PM

Hi, I just found out from the doctor that MRI shows an ACL tear. I got the injury in early march while skiing. I am 30 and athletic. I have actually played tennis even now. Now that I know I have this injury, I have really got scared to be frank. I am thinking of surgery (the doctor suggest allograft) but for me there are three criteria: 1. degree of Pain after surgery and its duration 2. Time before I can start going to office, or concentrate and work from home 3. # of weeks before I can do usual movements (stand, walk, sit, climb stairs) Can anyone please provide their thoughts on these?

Kevin
August 1, 2008 8:57 AM

Here's my progress with an allograft ACL surgery from June 2nd, to give people an idea of the recovery so far. I tore my ACL playing basketball on May 14th, and had surgery using an allograft on June 2nd, so I am now a full two months post-surgery. The first 2-3 days it was very useful to have someone around to help, and then after that you're more mobile and can start moving off of the meds. I still missed 5 days of work (office job) in total. One note about the surgery - I was merely sedated so that I was sleeping, but did not go totally under. My mind was sharp and there was no grogginess/nausea afterwards, no sore throat. It's definitely the way to go. 2 weeks on crutches (moved to 1 crutch in last day or two), and then a brace for another week after that. PT twice a week starting a few days after surgery, then 1/week, now I'm every other week. I was able to very slowly use a stationary bike at about the 4th week. 6 weeks post-op I could do the elliptical for 20 minutes, finally breaking a sweat again! 6 weeks out I took a week's vacation to Costa Rica and went swimming, hiking, zip lining, etc. with no hangups with my knee. Just had to be a little more cautious. Limp was almost gone. At about the 10-week mark I'm told I can start running in a straight line. The toughest thing is feeling no pain yet knowing that it's not stable. I play(ed) in a competitive wiffle ball league and my mind tells me I can swing/pitch but the key is to not push it. Should be back to normal activities by December.

Jen
August 3, 2008 6:21 PM

I tore my ACL on 5-23-08 had my first surgery on 6-13-08 to clean all the damage (meniscus damage and acl removal) out. I went to PT for 4 weeks to get my range of motion and most of my movement back. I am scheduled for my cadaver ACL replacement on 8-5-08. I will let you all know how it goes as far as recovery time and pain issues are concerned.

Denis
August 4, 2008 12:02 PM

Hi everyone, I injured my knee February 23, 2008. I am now having surgery to repair my ACL, MCL and meniscus on August 22, 2008. I am going with an autograph for the ACL repair but the surgeon is taking a portion of my hemstring from my good leg to fix the bad. Has anyone ever had this before? I have never had surgery before and I am a little apprehensive about the whole thing. I have been unable to do most sports since the injury as I lack stability for anything requiring sharp changes in direction (cutting) or twisting. Would anyone have any idea of recovery time with two legs affected? This is a great site to exchange information and I am looking forward to your input/suggestions.

phil patterson
August 5, 2008 3:28 AM

I had my ACL surgery June 16th 2008. The doctor used a cadaver ACL as mine was beyond repair. I started PT 2 days after surgury. I made some progress but my whole leg remained swollen for a month. The doctor had me get a 40 compression sock to help the swelling. Now that the swelling is going down the pain has increased. My knee doesnt seem to be in the right place. This is very frustrating. Has anyone here had this surgury and how long before you recovered. Its been 6 weeks and I dont seem to be getting any closer to being back to normal.

Ryan A
August 5, 2008 10:08 AM

Hi, It's been 6 days since I have had my ACL surgery. I am currently in school and had just ended up my internship so I could rest until school starts. It has been good and bad so far. The pain is definitely tolerable. Take the pills as needed! Also take Colace or something to soften your stool as going to the bathroom can be difficult with the pain killers. Anyone who is going to have surgery down the road, definitely work out! I worked out my injured leg for 3 full months before having surgery and it definitely has paid off. I went to therapy two days after surgery, and the therapist said my quadriceps, hamstrings were in great shape. I was able to do many leg raises. I went to the gym 3 times a week, did 9 sets on my quadriceps, 3 sets on hamstrings, 3 sets on quads, each time i worked out. Two days after surgery i also had 90 degrees flexion. This apparently is really good, so I am happy about that. If you have any questions i'd be happy to try to answer them, ramin@wpi.edu

JWR
August 5, 2008 11:59 AM

Just got back from my 5 week post-op checkup. Had an allograft on 7/2. Physically, I am ahead of schedule, but the allograft/muscles now is at its weakest point, so still need to be careful. My doctor has cleared me to ride a bicycle (can't wait!!!!-although I will stay away from the big climbs and group rides for a while) and swim. Finally I get to see how bad my cardio has gotten in the last 5 weeks.

Tim
August 5, 2008 12:50 PM

In 1990 I had a patellar tendon graft on my right knee after a skiing accident. I was 24. Spent a couple of weeks in a cast, six weeks on crutches, long time in PT. My right knee was always a little weak and loose in comparison to my left knee, but I could do everything. My right knee is getting a little arthritic (I also had the meniscus trimmed out). I've got way back on running. In January, I tore the ACL in my left knee during a ski jump (twisting motion on landing). I had surgery July 10 using pettaler tendon. I'm now 42. I ditched the crutches on Day 8. They gave me flex in the brace at two weeks post-op when they took the staples out. A week later I ditched the brace all together. The PT didn't like it, but I can walk without a limp although somewhat slowly. I've been riding a stationary bike for over a week,up to 30 minutes a day now. ROM negative to about 130 unassisted, almost full flex if I assist it with my hands. I'm finding it difficult to stay within the strength training bounds laid out by the PT. I'm doing every exercise they give me four or five times a day and not experiencing any swelling or undue pain. I spent 18 years rehabing my knees after the first ACL reconstruction, and I'm convinced that has aided in my recovery this time around. I always rode a bike, weight trained with my legs using machines, bands, and my own weight, and remained strong and flexible with yoga. I've found some of the yoga moves to be benefitial in my current rehab.

Sadie
August 5, 2008 12:57 PM

Hi everyone, I injured my knee about 5 years ago playing high school basketball. I was only out for 10 days and when I came back playing bball and softball through my junior and senior years, my knee would give out every once in awhile. I only had an x-ray when I got hurt initially and I wasn't in a lot of pain when it gave out, so I played through it. I guess I was too young to know that the knee giving out could be signs of a weak ACL. Over the past few months, my knee started to bother me more some so I went and had it checked out and found that my ACL is completely torn with a small cartilage tear. I'm scheduled for surgery on September 5th, 2008. This blog has been extremely helpful and I'm hoping to gain some insight/advice from anyone who will offer it. I start my new job training 12 days after surgery and I'm wondering how well I'll be moving around for it. As far as the rehab, for how long and how often per week will I go to rehab until they release me to do everything on my own? I'm 22 years old and was very active in high school, and I still consider myself to be in decent shape, which makes me hopeful that being young will work in my favor after the surgery. Is there anything I can do before surgery to help the recovery process after? Thank you for taking the time to read this and for any insight you may offer.

JWR
August 5, 2008 1:49 PM

I was back at work 4 days later with little difficulty (other than the pain meds which made my head spin a little). I was completely crutch-free by 2 weeks, brace free at 3 weeks. I do PT twice a week (since my insurance pays for it), but most of the rehab is done daily at home or in the gym once or twice a day. You can do PT as short or long as you want as long as your smart and follow the physicians protocol. Pre-surgery, you need to build up your quads, hamstring and calf as much as you can. It will go a long way in the recovery as the (especially the quad) muscles shut down, you will have some residual strength. I spent the final 30 days before surgery riding my bike as much as I could. I logged over 500 miles, including a 50 mile group ride the evening before my AM surgery.

Debbie S
August 6, 2008 1:02 AM

Getting muscle strength before and after surgery is really important, but don't forget balance and stability training. A balance disc, wobble board or something like it is a worthwhile (and inexpensive) investment.

JWR
August 6, 2008 8:54 AM

Good point. I have a BOSU trainer at home and use it all the time for balance training.

Kelsey T.
August 6, 2008 9:25 PM

howdy all...im Kelsey. 27yr old male from Baltimore. I injured myself playing soccer and tore my ACL ripped it clean and knew it just like everyone here knows that pain and pop...it was the strangest thing i had ever seen up until that point in my life...watching my knee bend like my elbow. After it was confirmed...3 weeks later i went under the knife. Dr. Andrew Cosgarea of Johns Hopkins hospital did my surgery. He received full professorship at JHU this year and was highly reccomended amongst friends and fellow athletes in the area. It was one week ago today that it was done. He used my patella tendon to replace it. The staff at Hopkins was amazing. I write here to ask if anyone else had immense pain in their shin afterwards. I've been putting 1/3 weight on my leg along with stretching and bending and lifting as per the Dr.'s and therapist's over the last week. No real pain in my knee AT ALL. Throbbing pain, when my leg is below my heart. Worse than the breakthrough pain when the anestesia wore off. Anyone have similar pain? I am curious as to what its from? Words of advice, wisdom? Good news: I have a previously scheduled appointment to see him tomorrow in the AM. kelseytracey@gmail.com is my email... thanks all.

Janet Heidker
August 10, 2008 5:43 PM

Sadie ~ I am now 4 months post op with a hamstring reconstruction. 12 days after surgery you will not be very stable on your bad leg - but you should be crutch-free or almost, by that time. My PT recommends 17 sessions for ACL rehab - at first it was 2 times per week, then once a week, now once every 2 weeks, because I do it all on my own now. Before surgery, work hard on your quads, hamstrings and calf muscles. After surgery your quad will lose all its strength and it takes a lot of hard work to build it up again. You will have to do exercises 2x per day minimum from the PT and get yourself a stationary bicycle - mandatory for ACL rehab. At first you won't be able to do a complete circle - don't give up - work hard and you will be back to normal in 6 months. Don't rush it. Janet

Scott Kouns
August 11, 2008 4:17 PM

Hello All, Thank you for all your comments. It's great to read everyones story and know your not alone on the road to recovery. So here is my story; I injured my knee 3 1/2 years ago sprinting to a sudden stop after hitting a hole. Tore my ACL but not all the way as well as some meniscus. Surgery on the meniscus followed and crappy rehab ( I had to do it on my own for the most part) Got back to playing soccer and work but then while carrying a pt down stairs and my fellow workers accidentally dropped the pt, I felt that knee pain again: subsequent meniscus surgery but no ACL recon until 6 months later this past Aug 5, 08. I was really apprehensive to have the ACL surgery thinking that I could rehab it again but was unable to run or really put any tork on it. The past surgeries were easy as in no complications following however I didn't have the "big surgery" as one doctor put it. Well, this surgery went well from what the doc told me (acl was shot and found scare tissue under the knee cap). That was good to hear because it answered a lot of questions of why I wasn't able to run or ride up steep hills. I'm now 6 days post surgery and going a little stir crazy. Knee is swollen, similar to the first two meniscus and i've been off the pain meds for the last two days. Just a headache now...maybe from using the crutches and squirming in the chair as I watch the Olympics. I would like to know what the next weeks are going to be like. How long for the knee swelling to go down to be recognizable? (I know, everyone is different) I love to ride bikes, how soon did you start? I read that someone did as early as 2 weeks.? That would be great but I don't think it will be that way for me. Thanks in advance. Scott

Mike
August 11, 2008 10:19 PM

So I had surgery 6/10.08 and thererefore am about 9 weeks post-op. This past week I had a physical therapist whom I had never had before because my normal therapist was on vacation. He either was not paying attention or was not properly qualified, because he had me do jumping jacks. After several jumping jacks, I collapsed in pain and recently had an mri to see the damage. It is very possible that I tore the ACL again. I am devastated. Warning to all: BE VERY CAREFUL about p.t post-op. The knee is very tender and cannot be pushed. Be careful to make sure your therapist is paying attention. Nobody wants what happened to me to occur to them. Thanks

JWR
August 12, 2008 8:59 AM

Scott, I am 6 weeks post-op. I too am a soccer /bike. My time line was about 3-4 weeks for most of the swelling to go away, although after about 2 weeks it goes down quite a bit. My limp was just about gone before 4 weeks. I am about 1 week ahead of schedule as far as muscle recovery goes. I was cleared at 5 weeks to start riding my road bike (flats only). I went 13.5 miles this past Sunday (5.5 weeks) at 14.1 MPH with a relatively high cadence although my knee got stiff about 10 miles in and I had to slow down a bit. It recovered fairly well for Monday PT although the rest of Sunday the knee was pretty fatigued.

Jason
August 13, 2008 11:28 AM

Hey Scott. I first wrote on like July 28th or something, so you can read my story there if you want to. I had my ACL surgery on March 12th. My knee never got huge with the swelling, but most of it subsided after 1 or 2 weeks. Compared to my other knee though it stayed somewhat swollen for like 3 months. I just regularly iced it, especially after exercising, long walks, etc. I found two things to be really helpful in exercising and cardio work. Eliptical machine and Wii Fit. The Eliptical is painful the first few times because of range of motion, but it is so sweet to actually get a cardio workout from it. The Wii Fit is so helpful that it is a game, but take it really slow on this. The balancing is huge to build up the muscles around the knee, but you can also tweak it if you don't go slow. You will be able to easily feel the difference as the days and weeks go by. I think it was Britt above who was talking about range of motion after the surgery and how painful it was. I had a machine (CPM machine) that I strapped my leg into while lying on the couch. You can set it at what angle degrees it will move between. Pretty cool machine, but yes it was painful. For me I discovered that most of the pain is just the muscles around the outside of the knee being stretched. I was a wuss about it the first 3-5 days, but then just tried forcing bit by bit through the pain and was amazed at how my knee would accept the movement and not hurt as much on the following bends to that degree. Sometimes I would make a game out of it. Two big points: The more your mind is distracted (playing a video game, watching a movie, reading a book, etc.) so much the better!!!! Second, work your knee into it every time. Just because you hit 120 degrees yesterday does not mean you should start at 120 degrees today. Sometimes you won't even be able to get back to 120 degrees for a day or two. At the end of the day, you have to, have to, have to get the motion (both bending and straightening) back sooner than later. It is painful, but it totally makes for a smoother rehab later. Thanks for reading.

Frances Strathern
August 14, 2008 10:16 AM

yo I torn my ACL playing basketball about a month and a half ago. Im going in for surgery in a week and Im pretty choked about it. I have been riding the bike everyday and have pretty much full range of motion in my knee. I can walk normally and run in straight lines. Does this seem normal for it to be completely torn and still being able to run / walk ? I am hoping that because of this I might have a fast recovery but I guess everyone is different. Anyone know? ps. im kinda scared :S

Frances Strathern
August 14, 2008 10:17 AM

yo I torn my ACL playing basketball about a month and a half ago. Im going in for surgery in a week and Im pretty choked about it. I have been riding the bike everyday and have pretty much full range of motion in my knee. I can walk normally and run in straight lines. Does this seem normal for it to be completely torn and still being able to run / walk ? I am hoping that because of this I might have a fast recovery but I guess everyone is different. Anyone know? ps. im kinda scared :S

Ryan A
August 14, 2008 1:14 PM

Frances, It is normal for you to be able to run. If I were you, i would not however. Because you tore your ACL, you have an unstable knee. You are in a greater risk of injuring another part of your knee. So just stick to the bike until surgery. As for recovery, you probably will recover faster than others, because your quadricep, hamstring, calves seem as they are in good shape (you mentioned that you bike everyday, and can run).

Clinton Long
August 16, 2008 9:55 AM

Hello Frances, You are right though everyone is different! But being able to run and is pretty good! Your age may be to your advantage too! I take it you are pretty young. I have seriously twisted my knee 3X over the past 9 years, it wasn't until my last one that i had an MRI and they said my ACL was torn. It had probably already been torn but now it was diagnosed. I was able to jog about a month afterwards but in pain and my knee was very unsteady. Having strong muscle will help with your recovery. I just started jogging yesterday 3 months after surgery! Good luck

Sandi
August 17, 2008 8:22 AM

I tore my ACL May 9, had surgery (patella graft) June 26th. My protocol was no weight on it and no bending my leg for 10 days. At 12 days I was at 90 degrees and by 6 weeks I had 135 degrees. I was on my recumbent bike at 2 weeks BARELY making full turns on the pedals. At 6 weeks I could ride my bike on the streets. Carefully! Week six it felt good, this week it's been sore. WHEN can I run again?!

Kerry Whitfield
August 18, 2008 3:38 PM

Hi all, It's really encouraging hearing everyone else's stories. I'm a professional dancer and tore mt ACL last Oct. I'm now 5days post op. (I had the hamstring graft) According to the surgoen everything went well and my PT is happy with things so far. So all is good but i'm slightly concerned that my shin and some calf is still very numb. Did anyone else experience this, or know anything about this???? Any advice would be great. Thanks. xx

marion
August 18, 2008 7:10 PM

Hey, dont worry Frances - it all go okay. I just had my second ACL replacement done a couple weeks ago (8/5) and can speak from some personal experience on this one that this will turn out fine for you. My injury was essentially same both times - sharp cutting motion playing tennis was the culprit. This time around I had surgery on the left knee - the other aCL replacement on right knee was done 10 years earlier and that knee, knock on wood, has been rock solid ever since. Needless to say after this injury (which happened in early July on vacation - thats a bummer!) i wanted to go to same doctor given he did great job first time around. Like another commenter in this blog, by time I got in to surgery I was running and exercising full tilt again and wasnt sure anything could truly be wrong . . .until I tried to pivot or turn - ouch! Anwyay, amazing how technology on this procedure has changed in last 10 years. My first time around I remember being in great deal of pain for several days; PT also was quite challenging for many weeks (man, first rotation on bicycle was a thrlling thing! I'm not a weak woman and can tell you that child birth compares favorably to the pain of that rehab experience). This time around, I kept waiting for horrific pain to start after block wore off . . .and it never came. Better still, within a few days I was walking without crutches and brace. So last 12 days I was off work, watching some wonderful olympics and not really feeling too bad! Today went to work again for first time (did bring brace and crutches - still need when I get tired) and am feeling great. My dr. has ok'd me for bike in another 2 weeks tho I wont be playing tennis until January I expect. He also told me I didnt have to do PT as I was getting back the range of motion so well on my own but Im still signed up for a little PT to be sure I work out all the kinks right - I'm already close to full extension tho a little less so on flexion. I'm not sure if the relatively painless experience this time around is b/c I'm in better shape than I was before last injury or b/c of dramatic improvements in technology of the surgery. I do know I have a great doctor (Tillett in Louisville KY for any in this area) - this time, I have 3 very small incisions, the largest being little more than an inch compared to surgery on other knee with two several inch incisions and couple of smaller ones. anyway, good luck with your surgery, be diligent with your rehab and you will be 100% in 6 months!

Kim
August 19, 2008 12:03 PM

It is normal to be able to walk and run. You don't have to have an ACL for straight line activities (running, biking), you need it for activities that require pivoting..like soccer and basketball. I am scheduled for surgery on Sept 3rd using the allograft and I am a bit nervous myself. However, it seems to be a common procedure w/ a very high success rate. It seems if you put the time in for rehab, you should be fine and that it will help your recovery time.

Kerry Whitfield
August 19, 2008 5:23 PM

I have just had acl reconstruction using a hamstring graft. It has now been 1 week and the majority of my lower leg (shin and calf) is still numb to touch. Has anyone alse experienced this and is it normal??? I'm very very worried!!! kerry_whitfield@hotmail.com

PLP
August 20, 2008 9:28 AM

hI...I tore my ACL and menicus about two weeks ago playing softball. I am set for surgery on August 26th. I am still not able to straighten out my right knee due to some swelling and what I am thinking is some menicus hanging up. Anyone dealing/have dealt with this? I am in a brace right now with about 90 degree motion and still walking with a limp. Is this normal? My hope is my years of being a high level distance runner will help in my recovery but at the same time I am worried I will forever lose strength and flexibility in my right knee.

PLP
August 20, 2008 9:31 AM

oh...I am having the bone-tendon-bone procedure done. i Hear recovery is quicker with this.

Kim
August 20, 2008 1:23 PM

PLP...I tore my meniscus as well as my ACL. I like you thought that my meniscus might be in the way because I couldn't fully straighten my leg for a long time!!! In the physical tests my doctor did in his office he felt it wasn't hanging. On the whole though, I don't think they really know how bad the damage is to the meniscus until they open you up. I was surprised at how long it took to "heal" on the whole and walk w/out a limp. I tore mine on May 17th and it took me almost 2 months before I was walking completely w/out a limp. (I did also damage my MCL so it may have been worse for me.) There isn't much out there for pre-op ACL injuries, it's mostly post-op. I had wondered myself it was normal and then spoke to a few other folks who took quite a bit of time to walk normally when there was damage to more than just the ACL. I know a few people who have had the procedure done and they are completely back to normal with full strength and flexibility. They say the key is to make sure you rehab properly.

PLP
August 21, 2008 8:49 AM

Kim..thanks for the reply. The doc did say he wouldn't know the full extent until he go tin there. He is worried I may have damaged my MCL some though he did say it is not torn. My meniscus is torn, per the MRI, and I hope its not in the area that can't rejuvenate itself. Reading here it seems a lot of people waited longer than I am to have the surgery. from my injury date to operation date is about 4weeks. Hoping this isn't too soon.

Kim
August 21, 2008 11:45 AM

My doctor wasn't prepared to do mine until about 2 mos after but then I just wanted to wait and finish out the summer. I would think your doctor would know if you were ready. It's more about your swelling and range of motion than the timing in between. If your range of motion isn't back to a certain degree before surgery, you risk some complications. That's what my doctor told me anyway and mentioned something about "stiff knee" if he did it before my ROM was back. I'm hoping the same about my meniscus. It's really not good for long term to have to remove that. I'm pretty sure things like that require full knee replacements later in life. My MCL wasn't completely torn so he said that would heal on its own. Good luck w/ your surgery. I will be going in shortly after you.

Art Vandelay
August 22, 2008 4:47 AM

Hi Kerry, I had my ACL reconstruction 5 weeks ago and I am still numb at the top of the shin and upper hamstring. The Doctor has assured me this is normal and it probably won't go back to normal for a few months.

PLP
August 22, 2008 6:46 AM

Kim....I had my pre-op consultation and the nurse mentioned to me that they will give me a spinal to put the nerves in my leg alseep. She said its good for pain since it will last 24 hours. I'm not sure I like this idea. Call me a wuss but a shot in the spine doesn't sound fun. Yeah my doctor said as long as my ROM and swelling was down he thought surgery would be fine. I have been working on it and can almost walk normal. Still have a slight limp. I still have some swelling esp. behind my knee and above my knee. Icing seems to help a bunch. Art? Which procedure did you have done? Bone-tendon-bone? Hamstring? Cadaver? I'd be curious to know since I am having the bone-tendon-bone done.

JWR
August 22, 2008 7:23 AM

Don't worry about the spinal. It isn't bad at all. I actually don't even remember the injection. If your legs are in really good shape, the short time should not make a difference in your recovery. If your leg muscles are not in real good shape, delay your surgery and get them built up. It will make the recovery MUCH easier. I was three months between injury and surgery. I am glad I put in the time working hard on the quads and hammies.

RobA
August 22, 2008 4:37 PM

I've been reading this site since I tore my ACL, MCL and medial meniscus in early Feb/08 playing touch football (28 year old) Reading all the differnet stories has helped me alot so I thought I'd return the favour! By the time I went under the knife, my knee was almost normal, minus the ability to cut/change direction quickly while running. Thanks to intense rehab/prehab, I was able to bike, run, sprint, do single legged squats (body weight) etc. I had surgery on Jun 17/08 (hamstring graft). By the sounds of it, I felt a little more post-surgery pain then the average poster here. I stayed on pain meds (percocet for 2 days, T3s after that), for about 2 and a half weeks, slowly reducing the amount. I was off crutches about 5 days after sugery, and riding a stationnary bike by week 2 (120 degree ROM). I jogged (lightly) on a treadmill for the first time exactly 5 weeks after surgery. I have been doing bike and eliptical as hard as I could presurgery for almost a month now. I am now 2 months post surgery and am continuing my rehab which now involves LIGHT lateral movement, pylon drills, jumping etc. Barring a setback (knock on wood) I should be cleared for sports again around the end of Dec/08, and I can't wait!

Debbie S
August 23, 2008 5:25 AM

Hi Kerry, I was also concerned about the numbness on the outside of the lower leg, but both the doctor and PT assured me that it was normal and could last for 6 months or more.

Adam Kalsey
August 23, 2008 8:10 AM

The numbness might never go entirely away. As with any surgery, the incision can damage nerve endings. I no longer have the hollow feeling behind my kneecap, but I have a spot on my shin that has no feeling. This is 4 years post op.

JWR
August 23, 2008 8:46 AM

One other thing about having the surgery soon after the injury, if you require the meniscus to be repaired, as opposed to removed, it will change your rehab considerably. I was lucky in that my meniscus tear was near the bloodline, and the time I took between injury and surgery, the meniscus healed itself.

Julie D
August 23, 2008 12:56 PM

I had my acl reconstructed (left knee with hamstring graft) surgery 12 days ago and I am finally off crutches. There is still some swelling there but not much pain, just discomfort. I only took pain killers for the first 9 days or so. I have had previous surgery to remove torn meniscus 2 years ago and I was left with a numb spot on my shin. It is still there and now with this surgery, there is a larger surface area of numbness. I have been told that its normal to have numbness and some of it will come back and some of it may not. It all depends on who and where the nerves were damaged. Good luck everybody with your recovery!!

LT
August 23, 2008 5:41 PM

I had ACL reconstruction ~ 2 weeks ago. I did have the patellar tendon graft. I also still have some numbness in the shin area. You mentioned a spinal. I had a femoral block and it worked well for the first 24 hours. If you are not comfortable with a spinal block, you might want to discuss a femoral block w/ the anesthesiologist.

RobA
August 24, 2008 10:25 AM

My surgeon told me that some feeling could return during my rehab, but whatever numbness remains at 6 months post-op will most likley always be there.

Denis
August 24, 2008 8:20 PM

I have to say, this website has been an asset to my preparation in having my ACL & Meniscus repaired. I completely tore my ACL, MCL and did some damage to the meniscus while on a fun family activity with my kids, snow tubing. I was trying to assist a girl and her dad in their run when I was struck from the side. I was standing erect with my feet firmly planted. I heard the pop and was unable to get up. That was Feb. 23/08. I just had my ACL reconstructed (this past Friday Aug. 22/08) using part of the hamstring that connects to the prosterior side of the left knee. I injured my right leg. The surgery went well, but I can say, the nerve block did not take effect right away and I awoke to some pretty intense pain, in both legs. A little morphine was given and the pain subsided. Both my legs have been affected by the surgery and this has left me, thus far, with some pain and poor pain meds. I am taking Toredol as I am allergic to codeine and cannot take Tylenol 3. I am going to physio Wednesday, 5 days after my surgery. I can tell you that I was fully rehabilitated before the surgery. I was going to physio 3 times a week and cycling 25+ km's at least 4 times a week. This, I believe, will assist with the recovery. My Ortho says that I was in the best shape possible pre-surgery and this should help reduce the recovery time. I would strongly suggest to those having the procedure done, to be in their best physical condition. The procedure is not pleasant, but I am hopeful the result will bare fruit. I will keep you posted. I should mention, like Kim above, I had a great surgeon. I have very little scarring on both legs. In fact, my surgeon did not use any sutures on the wounds. He prefers to use suture tape. The wounds are small, well closed and should leave minimal scarring. The bulk of the work on the ACL repair was carried out by scope. What a wonder modern technology is. Good luck to all.

PLP
August 25, 2008 10:57 AM

I go in tomorrow (8/26) for my surgery to replace my ACL and repair my meniscus. I'm a little nervous since I am still limping some 5weeks post injury. I was in good shape before the injury so hoping this helps in rehab. This blog has been of great help and I plan on posting after my surgery to those who follow.

Kim
August 25, 2008 11:19 AM

PLP...I did not have my surgery yet. It is September 3rd. I am doing the cadaver. I opted for that because there is less of a scar and the initial pain is less severe since you don't have to deal w/ healing from the removal of a tendon or hamstring. The main drawback of the cadaver is that it takes longer to "adjust" to your body. My doc said that if I used my own I'd be back to sports in 6-9 mos whereas cadaver is 9-12 mos. For the time being though, I'm fine w/ doing the bike and elyptical, I can hold off on sports. My doctor said either choice is fine but if he had to nudge me he would nudge me to use my own tendon. I still opted for the cadaver. I don't believe my doctor gives that pain blocker but I know others that got it and were fine. To tell you the truth, I would prefer to get it as I heard the pain the first few days is pretty intense.

Armstrong
August 26, 2008 9:34 AM

Hey people. Tore my ACL, MCl, and a little miniscus. I play football and was rushing the quarterback when my knee hyper extended and popped. I've been very sad latley and I would like some feed back on how I can be back to 100% as soon as possible

Kevin
August 26, 2008 3:06 PM

Looks like PLP is probably in recovery mode today, hopefully everything went alright. I don't remember getting the spinal injection and I had no pain associated with it. I haven't posted in a bit, but as an update I had ACL surgery on 6/2 using a cadaver, and I was able to run 11 weeks out at regular speed, although only for 1 minute before walking for a few minutes. It's not a sharp pain, it just aches because it's not used to it. I ran again yesterday and I'm actually limping on my GOOD leg today since it wasn't used to running either. But overall I'm walking normally and can do jumping and shuffling exercises. Lots of strength building. I would dispute that using a cadaver is a longer recovery, actually it is more often a shorter recovery. You don't need to train your body to be without the hamstring/tendon that was used as a replacement. I have had no problems at all with the cadaver tendon.

peiter
August 27, 2008 12:09 AM

UTAH SKIeR injury 2-27 surgery 8-8-08 ACL hamstring and remove meniscus. 25 yo athlete. Six months between injury and surgery. I could barely walk before the surgery. Even the most simple of tasks seemed dif and i walked with a serious limp. The first four days were hell but 2 percs every four hours helped. those first nights of sleep were tough. waking every couple of hours to pain. THE percs lasted three days, had a hell day of no painkillers and then a switch to vicodin. It is absolutly necessary to have someone take care of you for the first week. There is just too much movement for you to do it all yourself. Ankle pumps (every time you think about it) and quadceps are important because it moves the fluid in and out of the knee causing more blood flow and reduced swelling. Its been 19 days and i still have swelling and stiffness. I am not walking but i know i am really close. My doc has limited my pt soo that the new ligament has time to attach and adhere. so i am strengthening the quad and stretching the muscles in the leg and bending trying to get range of motion, but not pushing it at all. The pt said i should never stretch it at home like how he does in session. just a little less. I feel good and my pt says that i am doing great, but its a long recovery and possible risk of damaging something within the first 4 months if you over-exert. Good luck to us all on recovery

Kerry Whitfield
August 27, 2008 3:31 AM

Hi. Thanks to all who re-assured me about the numbness. I actually saw my surgeon yesterday and he said that my peronial nerve has been damaged. Said that damaged nerves take some time to repair/re-grow but not to worry it will come back, but couldn't give me a time frame as it differs with each individual. Other than that, I am 2weeks post op using hamstring graft and my knee is in pretty good shape. I haven't experienced ANY pain in my knee (obviously pain meds were used for the 1st week), bruising has gone and the swelling is minemal. My wounds are also healing very well and are much smaller than expected. If you're seriously into sports or dance I would definitely recommend having surgery, and so far the hamstring graft is working well. Just at 2weeks and i already have full extension (even to hyperextension) and about 75% flexion.

Debbie S
August 27, 2008 6:54 AM

Hi Kevin, I was just wondering if your surgery was on Feb 6 or June 2 (the order of the dates differ in Europe and USA. I assume you mean June 2). I had mine on June 4 (12 weeks today) also with the cadaver. I haven't felt the urge to run yet, but I "jog" on the trampoline-thing at PT for about 5 min. I am also walking normally, and today I was able to walk down the stairs normally (holding onto the rail of course). Claire- if you read this, I am wondering how things are going for you? Are you able to work yet?

Matt
August 27, 2008 12:46 PM

I had the patelar tendon graft on April 2nd 08 and sometimes when I walk my knee will just lock up has anyone else had this problem? Is this normal?

Denis
August 27, 2008 8:08 PM

Well, it has been 5 days since my surgery to repair my ACL (autograft) and meniscus. My right knee was the one repaired using a hamstring graft from my left. Oddly enough, the pain in my right leg is quite manageable but my left leg is not doing well. It has swelled to twice its normal size and is very painful. I am wondering if anyone else has experienced this kind of pain. I also have some heavy bruising behind the left knee and have noticed that blood is pooling around my ankle, giving the appearance of further bruising. I am usually quite good with managing pain but this one is proving challenging. I am not taking the meds that were prescribed (Toredol) but rather have switched to ibuprofen 600mg tablets. The Toredol was doing nothing for pain and the ibuprofen seems to take a little of the edge off...not much however. I realize this is probably worst case scenario, but the input in this blog is usually quite helpful. Has anyone else had this happen? My Orthopaedic Surgeon is on holidays and I will not see him till later next week. I think I will have to go to a walkin clinic before then. I look forward to your input.

Max
August 27, 2008 8:24 PM

Hi. I tore my acl and meniscus on July 2, 2008. I was walking around a table when I heard a pop. It felt like my knee popped out of place and I could just pop it back in, but when I bent it back I was unable to straighten it. When I had my MRI for the first few minutes I was okay, but the pain beame intese trying to keep the leg straight and not move. I am scheduled for surgery on Sept 11, 2008. I plan on using the cadaver method per recommendations of my doctor. I was wondering can anyone tell me how long after the surgery were you able to go back to work or school.

Kevin
August 28, 2008 8:15 AM

Debbie, my surgery was June 2nd. If you are able to jump and land on it you should be able to run. Can you skip? That's also a good test. The PT had me stand on my good leg and jump forward as far as possible, landing on the same leg (I got to about 50 inches). Then I did it on my bad leg and could only get to 35 inches - the landing is scary. However, if you can get to 80% of your normal leaping power, you should be ok to run. They say that keeping your original form is important - so I went right up to my normal 7-minute mile pace for 1 min. Try it at PT before you try it at home.

Kevin
August 28, 2008 9:48 AM

Debbie, my surgery was June 2nd. If you are able to jump and land on it you should be able to run. Can you skip? That's also a good test. The PT had me stand on my good leg and jump forward as far as possible, landing on the same leg (I got to about 50 inches). Then I did it on my bad leg and could only get to 35 inches - the landing is scary. However, if you can get to 80% of your normal leaping power, you should be ok to run. They say that keeping your original form is important - so I went right up to my normal 7-minute mile pace for 1 min. Try it at PT before you try it at home.

Debbie S
August 28, 2008 1:33 PM

Kevin, thanks for the info. I just do what my PT says and don't try to rush it. She hasn't mentioned running or hopping yet, so I will wait until she brings it up. In general, she says there is no need to rush things as the rehab will take the same amount of time regardless. So far, I've been doing a lot of weights (machines, free-weights and ankle weights), balance exercises with wobble board and cushion, jogging on the trampoline, stepping up and down, lunges, squats, calf raises and the like. She advances the exercises pretty often, either every session or every week. I haven't really felt the desire to run, actually. I keep in shape on the stationary bicycle (I have the kind with arms) and do boxing with a punching bag. My sport is karate. In some ways I am in better shape than I was before the injury, lost 7 pounds and am building up the muscles in a more balanced way (trying to see the positive side of all this at any rate). :-D By the way, 7-minute mile pace is good. I was a Cross Country runner way back when (-:

Jude $icko Ramirez
August 28, 2008 3:09 PM

Im having surgery on Sept.11th on my ACL and MCL. I'm a musician (drummer). Its my Hihat knee thats torn. Does anybody out there think I can play a show on Oct 30th. I would'nt have to move It much, basically just place it on my Hi Hat pedal. Im stressed out cause I want to play the show but I also want to heal right. Cheers ShootinLucy.com

PLP
August 28, 2008 8:07 PM

It has been 3 days since my ACL reconstruction. My right knee is swollen to twice its normal size and anytime I go to get out of bad and my leg drops toward the floor the pain is horrible. I had the bone-tendon-done graph done. Word of advice. Stay on top of the pain by taking your pain meds. Last night I skipped the late night one and about 3am this morning I wanted to crawl out of my skin it hurt so bad. Not to mention its tough getting comfortable with this big brace on. I started the leg bending machine yesterday and they tell me once I get to 125 degrees I can stop using it. This thing is a full-time job. 2 hours on 3 times a day. Thats 6 hours on this machine everyday. Ugh! As for my surgery it went well, though I was a little nauseated after the surgery. It didn't last long though. I have a follow up next Wednesday and hope I can start some PT shortly after. When does PT usually start after surgery? And how many days a week is it? Good luck to those having surgery soon and a speedy recovery to everyone who has gone through this. Time for a pain pill and some more sleep.

JWR
August 29, 2008 10:42 AM

I've never drummed before, but if the pedal is anything like driving a car, you should be able to. The question will better be answered by your PT a month after surgery.

Ryan
August 29, 2008 3:38 PM

Had ACL surgery 8/21/08, Hamstring graft. Day after surgery was able to go to work and give a presentation to the staff. Been able to be pretty mobile. I do have some swelling going on, mainly down in my feet, but is not painful. I am doing a lot of icing and elevating, but does not help that I am on my feet a little too much. Going to 2nd PT here is about 20 minutes. Hardest part, I am able to fully extend leg and keep without discomfort but when I have brace off and sitting leg bent I have a little pain when I try to straighten out my leg again. My main pain is behind my knee more than any where else. Ice constantly, have lofty goals of being doing some light jogging within the next month, realistically probably be more like October.

Sonya
August 30, 2008 9:37 PM

Last monday i had quadrouple reconstruction of my acl ligiment. i ruptured my ligiment 2 1/2 years ago playing basket ball for the first time. jumping for the ball and when landing my leg fell inwards and my knee poped out and ripped atleast 3 times. i ride horses and also will one day become a harness racer. I was planning to leave school and go to work in a stable in the next month but after this surgery i have been told by my sergen that i cant ride or train race horses for atleast 6 months. Its going to bee a week tomorrow since the surgery. My knee keeps on seizing and fluid is building up around the wound also alot of swelling and brusing is forming. not being able to walk ride or go to work in the stables for a period of time is starting to send me in a type of depression. its been severly sugggested that i dont return to school untill im walking and that will have a big effect on me for exams. did i mention that i possibly have an infection. this was my first surgery. i dont have any problems with the surgery just my recorvery at this stage. i thought it was straight forward and i would be walking by now and be ready for atleast stable chores in a month. turns out i set my goals to high. basicly im not handling the hole surgery recorvery ordeal well, shifting blame from one person to the other going through all the what if's snapping at my parents who are doing their best to look after me and crying pretty much everyday because i cant go out and ride. i hope every one elses recovery is going how they expected.

harshal
August 30, 2008 10:15 PM

hi guys. i just had acl surgery with allograft (achillies tendon) with a lateral meniscus repair on aug 19th. I was told not to walk for 3 wks because of the meniscus repair. after surgery i had pain for 2 days, other than that no pain. swelling went down alot i can see my knee cap. its been about 1 wk n 4 days i reached flex 70 degrees and extension is 0 my brace is locked at 0 ext and 20 flex. i was wondering if anybody has similar recovery progress like me and any advice you guys can give me towards my recovery.

Onur
August 31, 2008 3:51 PM

I had torn my right ACL, and they have used the left patellar tendon to replace my right ACL. I walked on my feet right after the surgery (several hours later) without crutches. One week after the surgery, I was able to ride the stationary bike, and right after riding the bike, I was able to walk normally. I pretty much walk everywhere. Now it is 11 days after the surgery, and I have pretty much no swelling, and some pain. I have that numbness in the outside of my left knee as well. I also had more pain on my left than my right (operated ACL). Good luck to everyone.

liz
September 2, 2008 9:29 AM

I had acl reconstruciton surgery a week ago (August 25th) on my left knee. I am experiencing extreme pain and numbness (about two inches below my kneecap) when I lift my leg above hip level. Did anyone experierenced this?

Kim
September 5, 2008 4:44 PM

Hello everyone. I am 2 days post-op and feel great (for just having had an operation anyway) The pain afterwards was not nearly as bad as I had expected. I am already off the pain meds and off the crutches. I am walking slowly and w/ a limp but am ok to put pressure on my leg. I did get the nerve blocker in my groin and would highly recommend it. My leg was mostly numb the first 24 hrs. I have started my excercises and will keep everyone posted. I just wanted to let anyone know that was getting surgery soon to not expect the worst!!

Lori Shyba
September 5, 2008 6:39 PM

I completely ruptured my ACL skiing back in, get this, 1975. Four months ago, in April 2008, I finally had reconstructive surgery. I had decided not to have surgery for many years because the techniques were so invasive and the healing time so long. Despite being in mid 50s now, the positive effects are starting to show. However, after having compromised on the injured leg for so many years, I have noticed a wide array of subtle affects throughout my body since surgery, including low back and hips. Now that the surgery is well-perfected, my suggestion is to bite the bullet and get it done asap. Soft tissue (fascia) physio is also very helpful.

Soccermom
September 6, 2008 6:10 AM

Hi everyone, I'm glad I found this website. I had acl reconstruction (Patellar Tendon) surgery and a repair on the meniscus almost 4 weeks ago 8/11. I think I have gone through a few emotional stages because I also set my goals too high. Right now, I'm just flat out mad at my knee because of the pain when I walk & bend and I can only bend to 83 degrees. My PT says I should be farther along by now which really makes it hard, I have been athletic my whole life. The injury happened playing soccer, I was kicked in the knee sending into hyperextension severing the acl which was painful but the recovery from that was a piece of cake compared to this. I have 3 boys to take care of and found myself quite weepy the 1st 3 weeks because I can't do the things I would like. Now I'm irritated. It seems just about every story out there is about people and their fast recovery, that makes me discouraged as well. Sorry to be Debbie Downer but is there anyone who has some advice or has been through a rough patch?

Debbie S
September 6, 2008 9:35 AM

Hi Soccermom. There may be some exceptions, but as for myself and others I have talked to, you are not alone in feeling the way you do after the operation. I was also surprised at how slow this recovery really is (even though I was informed beforehand), and disappointed at times when the PT told me I wouldn't be able to do things I wanted to for a long time. This whole ordeal is truly a trial of patience. Try to notice and feel positive about the small things you CAN do, and the progress being made. There will most likely be some setbacks as well, but try to think long-term. And don't compare yourself too much to others, though it is hard not to. Everyone is different. Most people I've talked to have gone back to their sports- sometimes it takes a year or more, even for some young athletes. But, they are all glad that they did the surgery. Hopefully this experience will make us stronger. Good luck Soccermom. Don't give up hope!

Soccermom
September 7, 2008 6:33 AM

Thanks Debbie, I think that's just it, I really wsn't informed about this long recovery. In fact, I was told I would recover quickly since I did the preop pt and was in good shape. I guess what concerns me the most is the pt telling me if I don't get more of a flexation real soon I might not ever get it. Is this true? I have tried for 2 days now pulling my leg with a strap with minimal progress. I can only go so far then the pain is excruciating, is this normal too? Thanks again.

Col
September 7, 2008 7:37 AM

I tore my ACL about a month ago and am having the surgery in a couple of days. I'm a teacher and coach so I'm very anxious at how I will handle life after the surgery as I'm obviously going to have to make some adjustments to the way I teach/coach. I do have some questions though. How long after the surgery before you could drive yourself? How do you handle showering/bathing? Does the leg need to be elevated when I go back to work teaching? It was swelling so bad this past week (before the surgery) from being up on it all day at school. When were you able to do stairs? I live in a second floor apartment so I'm concerned about how long it will be before I can go back home. I can relate to what some people are posting about being depressed about the injury. I'm usually so active and it's been frustrating to say the least this past month. I'm single too, and with my family living out of state, it's been hard going through it on my own. Any words of wisdom or advice are appreciated! Thanks =)

Debbie S
September 7, 2008 8:01 AM

Soccermom, I don't really know about what your PT said, whether it is true or not. However, the flexing was also excruciating for me, and for others I see struggling at PT sessions. Maybe you need to try a different flexing exercise? I started by sitting at the edge of the bed and using the other leg to push the operated leg into flexion. Then, I progressed to "wall-slides" where you lie on your back with your butt close to the wall and your legs up on the wall. You use the healthy leg to support the op leg while you gently flex it by sliding the heel down the wall (let the gravity work to slowly flex the knee farther and farther). I did 3x10 sets 3-5 times/day. It is extremely painful, but you just have to get through it and try to let the knee flex a little more and a little more. However, make sure to do it with your PT first so that you do it correctly and the right amount for you (again everyone is different). Another tip is to concentrate on your breathing when the pain is the worst, at max flexion. Breath deeply and slowly and try to relax as much as possible. My goal was to be able to ride the stationary bicycle and that motivated me through the pain. Again, good luck! Hope things work out.

Soccermom
September 7, 2008 8:29 AM

Thanks for the suggestions, I will give them a try.

Janet Heidker
September 7, 2008 6:26 PM

Soccermom - I feel the frustration in your words. I am 55 and tore my ACL skiing in February. I am athletic and had surgery in late April. I am now 18 weeks post op, and have shed many tears through the painful rehab of PT, wall slides and trying to pedal a stationary bike one full rotation. It took 3 weeks to accomplish that feat. Achieving flexion was very painful and it took a lot of effort - every day, but it will come. I saw my surgeon last Tuesday and he said that I can start jogging on the treadmill and doing normal activities at the gym, but he wants to see me in December to give me clearance to resume skiing (with a knee brace). I haven't jogged in over 6 months, and I was very scared to start - I could only do 5 minutes first time and the knee ached, but little by little my strength is returning. This injury can be very depressing - I have been there, but if you keep in mind the end result is that you want to walk, jog, run, etc. normally, you will achieve that goal. In the beginning when I could only get 72 degrees flexion, I thought the PT measured it wrong. I now have 137 degrees flexion and full extension, but don't kid yourself, it takes a lot of hard work. When it is over, treat yourself to something nice - I bought myself a diamond ring and call it my ACL ring! Keep your chin up!

Lee
September 8, 2008 8:09 AM

hi all, i had my acl and lateral meniscus operation on the 21st august (18 days ago) after doing the damage playing football (soccer) on the 2nd May. I was just wondering how my recovery sounds to other people who have experienced the same, its interesting to hear others stories, because to be honest sometimes it feels like i'm worrying that i'm not making progress! (impatient i know!!) I had a hamstring tendon graft and spent one night in hospital I only took painkillers for 1 day (tramadol) but these made me feel nauseas so after day 2 i was purely on paracetamol, i was put in a brace which i'm being told is on for a total of 6 weeks. TO be honest the pain only really lasted for 4-5 days - most of which was in my shin, which hurt like mad! now its just the odd twinge if i move to quickly etc, currently i am bending to 90 degrees pretty comfortably and i am as good as 0 degrees when i straighten. I am still on crutches though, i have tried to wean myself off in the last few days but the knee still feels weak and to much weight going thru it gives a weird twinging sensation! is this normal, some reports suggest people to be off the crutches at 1 week!!?? let me know your thoughts, it'd be great to relate to others!! thanks

JWR
September 8, 2008 9:04 AM

Col: Driving - 6 days (got MD clearance following Post-Op appt) Showering - Went 48 hrs without one. Used saran wrap around the wound for 3 days after that. Elevation/Icing- helps greatly if you get the opportunity. Will be a must when at home. Stairs - same day as surgery, though, try to avoid them as much as possible. Cumbersome. Once you lose the crutches, is much easier.

Soccermom
September 8, 2008 8:25 PM

Thanks for the encouraging words Janet. I can't wait to start running again! I will try to just focus on the small goals for now, and the long term rewards will come like you said. Maybe I will get one of those hand bikes so I feel I'm getting some sort of cardio exercise, that would probably help with my patience ;) That's great that you'll be getting back to the slopes, I bet your excited. I hope there's lots of snow this year! I told my husband about your ACL ring. At first he laughed (thinking I was full of it) then said If I stay positive the rest of the way he would get me a ring. I love the idea of looking forward to a little something special. Have a great week!

Hawk_Todd
September 9, 2008 10:52 AM

This is a great support group!! I had ACL reconstruction surgery on September 2nd with 50% removal of my lateral meniscous. I used cadaver tissue, not my own. The recovery so far is very painful with numbness touching the skin to the right side of my knee just to the right of the incision below the knee cap. I heard this is normal, but it scares me to death....just had my initial bandages removed today when I noticed the numbness. The operated leg is hard to even move...can bear a little weight on the leg, but the pain down the shin isunbearable. Sitting on my bed, I can straighten my leg almost all the way..but it starts to tingle and go numb if left there too long. I go see my doc tomorrow and question the numb sensation to the right of the incision because to the left feels normal?? Been on crutches since and was able to drive 5 days after :-) PT seems to help give me better range of motion whiling doing it, but not the same at home...just weird, everything about this surgery is just different and weird to me! I appreiciate soooo much everyones comments and experiences going through this...it feels we're doing it together...

Soccermom
September 9, 2008 11:47 AM

Hawk_Todd - I have the numbness too. My doc said apparently they have to cut a major nerve to that area when doing the surgery. I don't like it either, just be glad you don't have to shave your legs cause that really feels creepy!

PLP
September 9, 2008 12:14 PM

I am two weeks post op for ACL replacement. I did the bone-tendon-bone graph. Currently I still have swelling and using the leg machine can get over 90degrees flex. The biggest problem I have had is the pain in my shin and the inability to bend my leg. Especially while sleeping. No to mention the brace. I start PT today and from talking with people I am in for more pain as they work the knee. Not looking forward to this! I am curious how many of you have/had lost all quad strength. I can not even lift my foot no matter how hard I try. I asked my doctor and he said the quad muscle shuts down when you have swelling. This has me concerned having never seen my leg look like this before and being this weak.

PLP
September 9, 2008 12:32 PM

Soccermom....I feel your frustration on the slow recovery even though I am only two weeks post op. Like you I have three kids. Though mine are all 2 yrs old (triplets). And not being able to help my wife more than I can is double frustrating. Hang in there!

Kevin
September 9, 2008 1:09 PM

PLP, you can strengthen your quad by putting your leg straight out (while sitting) and raising it straight up and down, not ever completely setting it on the ground. At first you'll feel your leg is like two pieces (top and bottom) and the lift isn't smooth, but after working on it you'll eventually get to where it feels like one continuous motion (as if it's a wooden board going up and down). This happened for me around week 3-4. I still do this exercise while sitting at my desk at work (3 months post-op). It takes awhile for the muscles to return.

Janet Heidker
September 9, 2008 5:56 PM

Soccermom - you go girl....... just be patient with yourself in rehab. I borrowed a stationary bike as per PT instructions and pedaled every day...... I also had hamstring graft and at first my shin was numb. As you said, they have to cut a major nerve to get to the hamstring, but do not despair.... I am getting the feeling back in the shin slowly but surely. I drive standard and injured my left knee, so I had to wait 3 weeks before the doc would clear me to drive - a major setback. As for skiing, I am scared beyond belief - I am hoping I have the nerve to ski again as I have done so all my life. I live in Toronto, Canada, and I did the injury in your beautiful resort at Vail, Colorado. I long to return to the "Cappucino" run where I fell. Just think that when all this is over and you are able to resume normal activities, your hubby will reward you with a beautiful diamond ring. Keep this in mind when you feel down. Keep us posted.

Ryan
September 9, 2008 10:22 PM

Hi All...after years of wear and tear in the Army, an indoor soccer game did me in and I just had my ACL reconstruction surgery (patella-tendon autograph) last Thursday (9/4)...I am experiencing severe pain when trying to stand after sitting/laying down..feels like all the blood is rushing into my leg and causing a massive burning sensation..then, after I am up for a minute or two, the pain subsides..anybody else experience this? also, anybody else experiencing any pain in the knee/leg when using the bathroom (going #1)? I was taking percocet (for the first 3 days) and these symptoms were not there...now its Vicodin and I am in a world of hurt...oh well..I see my PT this Friday...any advice/suggestions..and good luck to you all.....

Kerry Whitfield
September 10, 2008 7:09 AM

Hi all, I know it's horrible to say, but I'm so pleased that others are having numbness in the shin. It's the only thing thats really stressed me out. I had my op on 13th Aug using hamstring graft. It was my left knee and the numbness has been from mid shin round the inside of the leg and a little into my calf. Lee- like you my shin and calf were tingling like mad.... kind of felt like when u hit your 'funny bone'. After almost a month the uncomfortable tingling sensation has gone, but no sensation has returned. I've questioned and questioned the doc and PT and they don't seem to be too concerned. Say that the nerves take a long time to heal and it could take up to a year to get the sensation back. However people have said that whatever feeling you have at 6months is probably all you'll get! I got rid of my crutches and brace at 2weeks, (even though my knee didn't feel really secure) but my physio seemed to think I should be off them so I just grew some balls (excuse the expression) and started putting more weight through it. It only took me a day to realise that my knee COULD actually take the weight and now I'm walking at a reasonable pace with no hobble. I find focusing on little accomplishments really help. Like today I stood on my bad leg with no support and managed to bend my knee without it shaking dramatically. I'm still very slow on the stairs but I know its getting better. As a professional dancer it's very frustrating since I'm used to being so active. (and I'm very impatient!) But it seems as long as there are no MAJOR complications then everyone who has undergone the op has come out the better for it in the long run. My advice to everyone would be to excersize it as much as possible to build up strength but little and often, and when not excersizing keep it elevated and ice regularly. I find there's still some swelling. Sometimes it looks like there isn't any when there is.... a good way to check it to have your leg lying flat on a bed or something, run your hand up the inside of the knee and down the outside, and if it's swollen the fluid in the kneee will pop out to the inside. Because of this I'm still taking strong ibruprofen as I was told it's important to get the swelling down asap. Hope this has helped anyone with any concerns. x

Debbie S
September 10, 2008 10:37 AM

Yeah, the numbness is irritating, and can last a long time. Getting the quads back is also a lot of work. It is amazing how long it takes to work back the strength! My PT says that rehab after an operation is different from the usual training at the gym as far as how the muscles respond. The NMES (neuromuscular electric stimulation) they use at rehab is a great help for waking up the muscles again. By the way, has anyone had any issues with the absorbable sutures pushing up towards the surface? I am now 3 months postop (allograft) and this has happened to me 3 times. But right now my incision scar looks like a giant water balloon. It is puffed up about 1.5 cm, 1/2 inch. This is quite irritating and a little scary. I had the surgery done in the USA, but am back in Sweden where I live (I don't really know who to ask about this). Would appreciate it if anyone else has heard about or experienced this.

Kim
September 11, 2008 10:05 PM

Today I am one week post-op and I'm am quite surprised at my recovery. I was off crutches the next day after surgery w/ only a mild limp. I also was on the stationary bike (full rotation) w/ some discomfort after 4 days and having been biking every day since. I am on day 6 now and I am walking fine with no limp! While I am happy that my recovery seems to be very quick, I'm wondering if this is normal? Has anyone "recovered" this quickly? I do have soreness in my knee but other than that, I had/have no serious pain. My quad muscle is definitely not 100% but other than that, I almost feel totally normal. I know other people have had worse recoveries so I don't want to "complain" about my recovery, I just think it might be weird. Everything I've read is different than what I've experienced post-op. Has anyone out there had a similar recovery?

james
September 12, 2008 8:05 AM

kim, I can't believe your recovery! I am now one week after my ACL (hamstring graft) and meniscus cleanup surgery. here in Argentina doctors tend to really push their patients during recovery but yours sounds uncanny. I am off the crutches but with a serious limp. I feel ok during the day but have had incredible pain in my shin at night when I get up. my wife has to bring me a bucket to pee in it is so bad! so, starting physio today and looking forward to pain free days.

JWR
September 12, 2008 9:36 AM

Kim, Yeah, you seem to be at the good end of the bell curve. I was on the stationary bike on day 10, but it hurt like hell to get a full revolution. I hope when you say 'biking' you mean stationary. I was off crutches around day 7, though I kept them nearby and used them as warranted as the leg would fatigue as the day went on. Walking without a limp was about 3 weeks. I wouldn't rush it however, as these cosmetic improvements don't change the fact that you have a new ligament that will still take 6-8 weeks before it becomes healthy tissue again.

Aaron
September 12, 2008 1:57 PM

Wow, can't believe I found this post as current as it is! I normally catch them years after they've been posted. I'm on my third day since I had my ACL replaced and damaged meniscus removed. My doctor did the cadaver transplant. I'm having the problem of not being able to easily lift my leg due to weakness and a pain right below my kneecap (down towards the foot, not towards the center of the knee). I was told I would be able to walk out of the hospital, but that was wishful thinking. I've been doing pretty good on crutches though. I start rehab on Monday, and I'm dreading that from all the painful stories everyone has. Hopefully I'm making it out to be worse than it is. I've had a pain too when I go to use the bathroom, but it's generated more by straining than anything else. The anesthesia used was a spinal numbing that numbed my entire lower-half. The hospital said I would have to go (#1) before I could leave. I could feel my legs at the time, but not anything higher at the time (if you know what I mean). I could go only by forcing it out, and everytime I forced it, my knee would hurt. Nothing was ever mentioned to me about elevation and icing, but seeing as how my knee looks to be the size of a two-year-old's head, I'll start tonight after reading this post. I would like to have it down as far as I can for rehab. After reading about everyone's quad issues, I'll start lifting it now and then to try and keep its strength up.

Kim
September 12, 2008 8:56 PM

Yes, I'm only doing the stationary bike. I won't do anything outside of my doctor's orders. I also meant to say I was not limping after day 8, not 6 (that was a typo). I was one week out when I wrote that. I'm thinking using the cadaver probably has a lot to do w/ it too since I did not have to recover from surgery and loss of another ligament or tendon. I was also pretty hardcore before my surgery w/ doing the bike and my excercises more than once a day. I've also still been elevating my leg and doing lots of icing. The icing is probably part of the reason my pain has been minimized. PT is definitely tough, my knee hurts more after PT than it did after surgery. In fact it's the only time my knee really hurts, is after PT. I guess it will be worth it in the long run!!

ERG
September 14, 2008 12:59 PM

I'm almost two weeks after my ACL repair was done using the cadaver, so far so good but the pain, although not much, it is very uncomfortable in the sense that I can't sit, stand or lay down in a comfortable way without feeling that little but annoying pain that won't let me sleep at night. Are any of you using any regular pain killers for the pain? I'm going back to work tomorrow but I am afraid I will not be able to concentrate with the pain? How do you guys so it?

T
September 14, 2008 7:28 PM

I had surgery on Aug 13th both meniscus and ACL with a hamstring graph. I'm off crutches still have a limp with a leg brace. When does the pain go away. I have met my measures for a full extension but have yet to hit 90 degrees on my bend. UGGHH!! I thought this recovery was going to be easy since I did do pre-op PT. The worst pain comes at night when I try to sleep. Yes, try. I'm very restless as I can't find a comfortable position to sleep. I guess this going to take some time.

Cory
September 14, 2008 11:25 PM

I had surgery on the 9th. This was my second surgery since I didn't get everything done the 1st time. 1st was meniscus and this one now 4 yrs later is ACL. I had gotten kind of used to not having an ACL, but at 26 I figured i'm still young enough to take care of it. I start PT tomm and I definately know what to expect. Doctor wants me to wear a brace for 6 weeks and crutches for 4. I walked into my 1st po-op visit holding them both in one hand on Friday the 12 and the nurse didn't like that. She said it's fine to put all my weight on the leg, but i need to use crutches. I've been doing leg raises like crazy andsqueezing my muscles at the peak and have to far got my knee to about 90 degrees. I take ibuprofen for the swelling still and try to only take a hydrocodin at night to assist with sleeping. It's so hard to find a comfortable position with the brace. I still experience the rush of pain going from laying to standing, but that seems normal. Well good luck to everyone.

Soccermom
September 15, 2008 10:16 AM

Hey T, I had my surgery 8/11 and just hit 96 degrees Friday. I have more luck laying on my stomach and pulling my leg with a strap, it hurts but I just try to go a little farther anyways - it can't kill me:) I also have a ton of pain at night. I take a bed pillow and either rest my leg on it or try sleeping on your side and put the pillow between your legs lengthwise for support.

PLP
September 15, 2008 2:53 PM

I had my surgery on 8/26. I had the bone-tendon-bone graph. Today was the first day I was able to lift my foot up for leg lifts while lying flat on my back. Let me tell you the pain in my patellar tendon was emense!!! I even took some ibuprofen before hand to help with the inflammation during and after PT. I also started doing mine squats today and while doing those I was still amazed at how weak my quad muscle is. It takes time I know, but man it is really frustrating. I was able to hit 90 degrees today. So two firssts for me today (obv brag..sorry). As for sleeping. Yes pain is still there, though getting better each day/night. PT seems to help and icing before bed. I found that if I sleep without my brace on it is much more comfortable. I start on my side and in the middle of the night I switch and put my leg up on a pillow. This seems to help. Another thing to make sure you are doing. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Especially if you are taking pain meds or ibuprofen. Just a little dehydration can leave you more sensitive to pain. good luck everyone!

JWR
September 16, 2008 8:27 AM

12 weeks post-op, tomorrow. Met with the MD this morning. X Rays look great. Been cleared to begin treadmill running, simple agility drills. Can stop with PT, if I want. I am thinking about continuing once every 2 or 3 weeks as a checkup point. I workout 5 days a week, but since I never did this stuff before, I feel more comfortable consulting with someone. The other option may be to actually seek a physical trainer.

aileen
September 16, 2008 7:28 PM

hello everyone. honestly I am relieved to have found this sight/blog. I tore my acl almost the same exact motion the way soccermom tore hers except I was playing basketball. I had my surgery [patella-graph] on 9/11 so this would be my 5th day after the surgery. Like Ryan, I too feel the burning sensation and the blood rushing as I get up from laying down && it does not feel good at all. I also feel throbbing throughout my operated leg at times. My doctor has prescribed me to Vicoden and it made me nauseas for the first 3 days after my surgery. Sometimes it aches and is sore but I'm guessing that is normal since they did drill holes through my bones. The only question I have is am I suppose to keep the brace/mobilizer on all the time? or is it okay to take it off so my leg can breathe?

JWR
September 17, 2008 5:14 AM

You should be able to take your brace off periodically. My MD had me keep it on as much as possible to encourage the full straight extension of the leg.

PLP
September 17, 2008 2:17 PM

ailleen....you should keep it on a majority of the time. Especially if you are up an about. you want to have it locked straight. I was able to unlock it when I was laying down or sitting. Your graph is still fragile and the brace is there to mobilize you knee. I saw my doctor 10 days after my surgery, (surgery date 8/26/08), and he said I could take it off more but to have it on if I was up and about. I no longer sleep with it on and while at work I take it off so I can bend it. The burning is normal and I still get it. Esp. during PT. My doctor prescribed me Toradol, it like Ibuprofen on steroids. It helps with the aching. gl

Sports Mom
September 17, 2008 7:06 PM

This web site is great! I am having ACL surgery in October and doing the pre-hab PT now. The docs think I have been playing on a partially torn ACL for almost two decades and I finally finished it off playing tennis. I am a 40 year old active woman and am considering the allograft over the hamstring graft. Thoughts? Also, any competitve tennis players with post ACL experiences to share??

Kim
September 19, 2008 9:39 AM

Sports Mom...I just had the allograft and feel great!! I am 34 so I could have used my own but I didn't want to deal w/ the recovery of the acl and the removal of another ligament/tendon. I stated in my earlier post that I was off crutches the next day, was on the stationary bike in about 4 days and w/in a week, pretty much had no limp. I believe age plays a factor here, your doctor may recommend the allograft but then again all doctors are different. If I chose to use my own, my doctor would have done the patellar graft over the hamstring. They often don't like to use hamstring grafts on women because our thighs are already a bit weaker than mens'. That's partially why they think this injury tends to occur more in women. Ultimately the decision of what type of graft to do lies w/ the individual after discussing w/ their doctor but just having had the allograft I definitely feel that I made the right decision!

MikeN
September 19, 2008 10:36 AM

I wanted to give you a look into the furture. I had suregery on June 26 so as of today I am 12 weeks post-surgery. I am Male, 42, and am fairly active. I still have some swelling around my knee, which has some impact on strenght conditioning and gives me a slight limp. I work out about 4 times a week and would consider my bad leg at about 70% of the good one. I do see progress and my knee is stable, which makes me feel good about the long-term situation. My PT is with weights but i started light jogging and jumping jacks to get my leg used to my own body weight under stress. I hike all the time in the mountains, jog in the gym and all in all am pleased with where I am. I do not do any court sports though and would be very hesitant to try. Going side to side seems fragile. One the other hand I am going dirt biking for the first time this weekend since surgery which is how I tore my ACL in the first place. Good luck to all.

Janet Heidker
September 20, 2008 4:35 PM

Sports Mom.... I had the hamstring graft and feel great! Not to detract from Kim's comments about her excellent recovery. I am 55 and here in Canada, the cadaver graft is not popular - perhaps because there are not as many donors as in the U.S. Regardless, my surgeon said if he were to operate on his wife, he would perform the hamstring graft. He prefers it because there is not the risk of rejection or infection, as with the cadaver graft. Also, with the patellar graft, the incision is right down the middle of the knee, and the patient may not be able to kneel due to the invasive incision. I am 5 months post op and am now jogging on the treadmill and performing my usual routine at the gym 4 times a week. The hamstring that was compromised was not a big deal - it has healed very well and quad strength is now equal to my good leg. I couldn't let the hamstring graft go by without giving it a good sales pitch!

Jeeter
September 20, 2008 8:08 PM

This is really cool to see all the different versions and recoveries. I had a Patellar tendon graft on my Rt knee in 92 after a skiing crash. Just blew out the Lt end of July hopping over the couch so I wouldn't screw up the kids playing Rockstar!!! Couch buckled into my thigh and BLAMMO. I knew what it was the instance it happened. This time my doc is doing the hamsting graft. I'm 45 female in the fire service and just can't afford to not have it fixed. I have NEVER had an iota of problems with the patellar graft but would rather go back into labor that experience that pain again!! Looking forward to having one of each so I can be my Surgeons "case study". LOL All I've read states they are equal in stability just much easier recovery. Plan on doing my own PT this time too. I'll check in post-op. Gimme the clear juice.....not the pink!

Debbie S
September 20, 2008 11:59 PM

Hi all! For those following recent posts, the strange blister I had on the incision scar turned out to be the absorbable screw which had loosened and was trying to work its way out! The surgeon removed it and my knee feels soooo much better, and I can continue rehab as usual. I suppose this is rare, but it can happen ...so just thought I would share this strange ACL experience.

Soccermom
September 21, 2008 6:57 AM

Oh my gosh Debbie, did he say how that could happen? I'm glad you're feeling better!

Max
September 21, 2008 10:49 AM

I had surgery on 9/11 (allograft) for a torn acl and meniscus and sometimes the pain is so intense especially at night. I tried taking the percocet, but it made me feel horrible so now I just take motrin. However, after the surgery I still feel a pulling sensation is this type of pain normal?

T
September 21, 2008 12:44 PM

Hi Again, Ok doing much better now. Is anyone with a hamstring graph experience cramping in the hamstring? I have severe cramping which is creating more of a limp. I'm riding the bike fine now, hit 101 on my bend, -2 on my extensions...so measure are well. Getting comfortable at night is another story being creative with a pillow seems to help. Hoping the dr will allow me to walk with out the brace as it's cumbersome and has caused a MCL sprain due to the weight and the pulling. One more question- I know everyone heals different but shouldn't I be off a brace by week 6? thoughts?

Debbie S
September 22, 2008 5:46 AM

Thanks Soccermom! The doctor explained that sometimes the surgeon uses a permanent screw and sometimes an absorbable screw (in my case, absorbable) to initially hold the new ligament (graft) in place. The ligament usually heals and fastens to the bone in about 6-8 weeks and then, at some point, the screw is absorbed by the body. Apparently, my ligament had healed (thank goodness!!!) and my body did not want that screw anymore. I don't know why it loosened instead of absorbing, but the doctor said that it was no longer filling any purpose. What a strange experience!! I was rather freaked out for a few days, I must say. But my knee really does feel better now without the screw, which was causing inflammation and taking up space where it shouldn't (not to mention the gross giant blister). I am starting to exercise again and will go back to rehab this week. Can't wait! By the way, Supermom, I read that your bending is coming along. That's great! Keep up the good work (-: And, to everyone who just had surgery, things WILL get better!!!!!

Debbie S
September 22, 2008 5:59 AM

Oops, I meant to write Soccermom (not Supermom). Sorry.

Tommy
September 22, 2008 11:16 AM

6 days post op, on my way to my second PT appt. I had the donor graph. My first PT was 3 days after surgery. I bent my knee 95 degrees and was able to do all of the exercises including leg lifts. It hurt, Ice is my best friend. Good Luck to everyone.

Shari Coleman
September 22, 2008 1:00 PM

Hello everyone, I am the new kid on the block. I am having surgery on October 1, 2008. I am having the donor graph done. I am feeling a little nervous, but kind of looking forward to getting the surgery done so I can begin the healing process. I am tired of my knee being in constant pain. I miss doing my daily activities, not to mention putting on high heals. Is it really difficult to climb up and down stairs? I have 4 level of stairs in my house. I figure the first week I will just be on one level being catered to!! Also, when are you able to drive? The acl torn is unfortunately my right knee. New kid on the block

Doyce
September 22, 2008 1:35 PM

I am so glad to have found this site! I am a 47 yr. old cyclist and my ACL replacement was 9/11 (donor & hamstring) While in there they also did a micro-fracture of my femur to try to help repair a giant divot of cartilage I ripped off when I finished off my ACL in May. PT started 9/12 and I am religious about doing my home PT. By the way, this is the second time to have my right ACL replaced. (patella first time in 2000) I am not supposed to put my weight on my leg for 6 to 9 weeks - my question is when I can drive! Anyone out there with a similar set of repairs / recovery that can help me out with the driving part???

Doyce
September 22, 2008 1:35 PM

I am so glad to have found this site! I am a 47 yr. old cyclist and my ACL replacement was 9/11 (donor & hamstring) While in there they also did a micro-fracture of my femur to try to help repair a giant divot of cartilage I ripped off when I finished off my ACL in May. PT started 9/12 and I am religious about doing my home PT. By the way, this is the second time to have my right ACL replaced. (patella first time in 2000) I am not supposed to put my weight on my leg for 6 to 9 weeks - my question is when I can drive! Anyone out there with a similar set of repairs / recovery that can help me out with the driving part???

Doyce
September 22, 2008 1:36 PM

I am so glad to have found this site! I am a 47 yr. old cyclist and my ACL replacement was 9/11 (donor & hamstring) While in there they also did a micro-fracture of my femur to try to help repair a giant divot of cartilage I ripped off when I finished off my ACL in May. PT started 9/12 and I am religious about doing my home PT. By the way, this is the second time to have my right ACL replaced. (patella first time in 2000) I am not supposed to put my weight on my leg for 6 to 9 weeks - my question is when I can drive! Anyone out there with a similar set of repairs / recovery that can help me out with the driving part???

Doyce
September 22, 2008 1:55 PM

I guess I sutter too...

Cop'er
September 22, 2008 1:56 PM

Hello....Police Officer....cadavor lig...7 months post op...back at work now for the past 2 months...have yet to full on run..scared more than anything. Should I just go for a jog and see what my knee feels like? Did 8 weeks of pt and have continued normal weight lifting and some of the pt exercises learned? Advise Please...

Raha Ovaisi
September 22, 2008 11:42 PM

I just had a ACL surgery today SEP 22, 2008 used Cadaver Ligament. I feel great, no pain no problem AT ALL. I had surgery 8 hours ago and I am on line. Great work by my Dr.

Betsy W
September 23, 2008 6:32 AM

Hi Everyone~ Thought I'd check in 7 months post-op ACL allograft reconstruction. Swelling is still present and surgeon says to expect it for another couple of months, increasing with activity, weather, and full moon- YES, full moon as our body fluids contain so much salt, just like the ocean LOL. Limp is gone and I feel great when walking on a straight and level surface. Declines and high heels not so much fun as I really feel pressure on the tibial site. Kneeling is still a challenge. And there are nights when climbing stairs, that each step is an effort. The cooler, drier NH days/nights are helping too. Yet the best news is I am no longer on blood thinners! Refer back to my April 2008 postings for blood clot complications. Best recommendations is to stick with PT, most importantly the at-home program. Good luck to all!!

Suz
September 23, 2008 3:10 PM

Hi: My name is Suzan. I'm freaking out that I may need to get ACL operation. You all sounds so brave, and I don't know how to get up my courage to deal with this. Doctor said MRI showed only minor sprain, but there is a troubling laxity, making me feel I feel that I have to keep leg straight and drag toe on the ground behind me. Stepping causes tibia delay as if my leg is falling apart. This has gone on for six months now, and because of this I have curtailed all activity. The os doctor said my sprain is old (he says the MRI shows that), there is no way it could be causing my issues. Did any of you have this scenario? ~S:)

Suz
September 23, 2008 3:11 PM

Hi: My name is Suzan. I'm freaking out that I may need to get ACL operation. You all sounds so brave, and I don't know how to get up my courage to deal with this. Doctor said MRI showed only minor sprain, but there is a troubling laxity, making me feel I feel that I have to keep leg straight and drag toe on the ground behind me. Stepping causes tibia delay as if my leg is falling apart. This has gone on for six months now, and because of this I have curtailed all activity. The os doctor said my sprain is old (he says the MRI shows that), there is no way it could be causing my issues. Did any of you have this scenario? ~S:)

Angela
September 23, 2008 3:52 PM

HI Doyce! I had my acl reconstruction (donor achilles tendon) with a menicus tear and tibial fracture on August 22. I am in my fifth week of recovery. To answer your question, you can drive when you feel comfortable, not heavily medicated and when your brace is unlocked by your physician to allow the necessary bending required for driving.

Christa
September 24, 2008 10:11 AM

Hi, my name is Christa, and I had my ACL reconstructed on August 29. I wished I could say that like Tommy I bent my knee to 95 degrees as soon as he did; however, I did not. My recovery seems to be going OK. I am in my third week and reached 100 degrees on my flexion and five on my extension. I got off Vicodin after the first week. I too, do my daily exercises and icing. I am looking for suggestions about how to get better sleep at night. I have read all your comments and I just want to know what others are doing to get sleep. Please let me know what ideas, or sleep regiments you might have tried. For example, how many hours or mins before bedtime do you take your medicine or ice. Also, I need some more ideas where to place my pillows to better help with stability and comfort. Thanks, Christa looking for better sleep.

Mike N
September 24, 2008 10:15 AM

Doyce, I also had my ACL on my right knee done. I was driving on day 10, but it was difficult. I drove my dad's pick-up and would get in on the passenger side, pull myself over to the left and then use my left foot, leaving my right leg on the bench seat. Not that safe, but I had to go to work. Then about 1 week later I started taking the brace off my right leg just for driving and use my right foot.

Ali
September 24, 2008 10:45 AM

I'm a week post op - this is my second ACL reconstruction in 4 years- different knees - I think I've got dodgy knees but my surgeon thinks I play too hard (skkiing & paragliding injuries). This time though I've got a very sharp pain in my lower leg bone when I do the physio knee bends - I'm worried the pain is coming from the screw moving - any ideas anyone? I'm not in a brace as I'm on an accelerated rehab programme. It's probably different here in England but I was told both times not to drive for 6 weeks. Suz if I can go through it twice it's really not that bad & far better to have you life & activity levels back. Shari I found stairs ok and can manage them one legged without crutches after a week.

PLP
September 24, 2008 11:08 AM

Christa....I had my surgery on Aug. 26th and like you just reached 100 degrees on my knee. I still have swelling and my quad is still a mess and just doesn't want to do what a quad is supposed to do. As for sleep, I ice right before bed and sometimes take a pain pill to help me sleep. I ice for about 15 minutes then go to sleep. For me, I find that during the night I naturally want to stretch while asleep and the leg/knee doesn't want to bend and my weak quad can't handle the stretch so I wake-up. This happens at least three times a night. Not much you can do here. Though when I do wake-up from this I try to straighten my leg myself so it will relax some then I reposition and go back to sleep. As for pillows...I lie on my side, and "hike" my knee up on the pillow with the other leg either straight or under the pillow. This seems to help as it allows my knee to rest and is most comfortable for me. It is slow go..hang in there and gl.

Debbie S
September 24, 2008 1:00 PM

Ali- you may want to ask your doc or PT about that pain in the lower leg during bending. I had problems with the screw coming loose and I just had it removed 15 weeks postop ...it was causing pain, inflammation and strange reactions around the incision scar. One week postop sounds a little early for this to happen, but you might want to check anyway and keep an eye on the area that is painful - if it feels warm, gets red or anything, it is a sign that something isn't quite right.

Melissa
September 24, 2008 3:59 PM

I'm glad I found this site! I will have my surgery on Oct 16th. As a mom of 5 I am hoping for a speedy recovery. Any pointers would be great. Thankfully it is my left leg so I should be able to drive soon...I hope!

Melissa
September 24, 2008 4:01 PM

I'm glad I found this site! I will have my surgery on Oct 16th. As a mom of 5 I am hoping for a speedy recovery. Any pointers would be great. Thankfully it is my left leg so I should be able to drive soon...I hope!

Dave K.
September 24, 2008 5:16 PM

Hello my bretheren. I just had my ACL surgery on 9/16/08. I'm a State Trooper and had the misfortune of coming across a wanted felon under the influence of both cocaine and marihuana. Needless to say, the end result was; wanted felon arrested and my ACL completely torn. I incurred this injury back on 05/06/08. I am a fitness/gym nut. I work out constantly and was prescribed physical therapy from the get go. My therapist previously from Russia, worked on their olympic athletes. He is excellent. My Orthopedic Surgeon is also excellent. He is very progressive and well recognized for his overall apptitude/demeanor. My point of writing this (first time ever trying something like this); is do your pre-surgery p.t., research your Doctor and listen to those that have been there before. I started my cold therapy the second I got home from the hospital. The next day, I began using the Constant Passive Motion machine (CPM). I started out at 35 degrees. They said to increase by 5-15 degrees everyday. By Sunday, I was at 110 degrees. On 9/22/08, my first post-op p.t. visit was not fun (due to deep tissue massage). My therapist was amazed when I told him that I was not only able to tollerate gimping around (full weight-bearing) with out the brace, but was able to walk up and down the stairs. He was in disbelief. I showed him how much control/strength I had. Today (9/24/08), I almost passed out at p.t. when they started me back doing weight resistance and treadmill work. I know I'm not the norm, at least according to my Doctor and Therapist. My recovery is not typical. I have been very lucky. Just go on-line, get as many views as you can, exercises and advice. By the way, my surgery was an allograft (from cadaver). It still freaks me out thinking that some part of a dead guy is in my knee, but IT WORKS!!! This is definitely the best and least painful way to go. If any questions or concerns, ask; maybe I can point you in the right direction. Lastly, becareful what you take as prescribed pain medication. I have only taken 1 oxycodone (2 halves) in a week. I don't trust any of these prescribed narcotics and worry about the addictability. I ran in to people at work using and dealing this stuff. Many said it all started from surgery recovery. BECAREFUL!!!

Ali
September 25, 2008 1:46 AM

Thanks Debbie - the tibia just below the knee is quite warm & I suppose I'm concerned as the during the surgery they had to drill two holes into my femur as the first was too big for the graft - I've got no pain in that part of my leg though. Melissa - I think everyone recovers at differing rates. I get the impression that if you're in the States you all end up in leg braces which despite being on my 2nd ACL reconstruction I've no experience of.Hope your 5 kids are able to help out - my two kids have with some moans & a bit of bribery.Good luck.

Tara
September 25, 2008 2:18 AM

Hi - So grateful for this site - I had my surgery, left acl, meniscus and bonus arthritis treatment on 17 september in northern CA - I start official physical therapy tomorrow and am curious about it - I am only about 74 degrees at 1 week out and am wishing I had been in a bit better shape going into this! I am definitely still using the vicodin at night to sleep - sleeping is a challenge. I am curious about how long to elevate. And I find that I am so dependent on the ice - and feel perhaps I am doing too much - but it is such a relief and also in the bending it feels like I need it in order to reduce swelling and allow any further bend - and it just seems like my knee is emanating heat! About day 5 may have been the worst - and it seemed I overdid it? I had to go down in degrees and was having spasms and greater pain - has anyone else experienced this? I am quite nervous for the PT session tomorrow based on all that I am reading. I was pushing it but due to my "bad day" am working on pacing myself more - but it seems a fine balance. I appreciate all the perspectives and remarks - it is so helpful.

PLP
September 25, 2008 6:20 AM

Tara- I am finishing my 3rd week of PT so hopefully I can give you some insight on what to expect. They will start you off slowly and concentrate on getting your leg straight, reducing swelling and getting your quad muscles stronger. The worst part, for me, was the pushing down on my knee to straighten it and the leg lifts. PT has done wonders though and I actually feel better after doing a session. I will start on the bike next week and can bend my knee beyond 100 degrees without help and am no longer on crutches and seldom wear a brace. You're on the road to improvement though it will be tough. gl

Melissa
September 25, 2008 9:14 AM

Ali- Thanks! My kids are young (the oldest is 8 the baby is 2) so I do hope they are patient with me. I read a lot of people have pins or screws...is that common?

Doyce
September 25, 2008 1:35 PM

Thanks Angela - They unlocked me yesterday at my 2 week visit....driving is aswome! I also had the joy of having 30cc's drained off my knee to help my range.

Ali
September 26, 2008 3:43 AM

Hi Melissa - I'm not sure what's normal in the States but I've got screws in both legs now.Hope you've got help with your kids especially the little one's - mine are 16 & 11 so it's relatively easy.I'd intended to get really organised before my surgery but ended up being called in early and only having 24hrs to run round like a headless chicken.After a week I'm able to potter around the house and do limited stuff but most of the day is spent with my leg up,icing and doing the physio.I think making sure that my leg was a strong as possible before the op has helped as I'm more mobile after this op than my last one 3 years ago when my other leg wasn't as strong.

Sports Mom
September 26, 2008 8:42 AM

Melissa, I am having acl/meniscus surgery on Oct. 14th and I am a mom with three kids under 10. I am definitely worried about not being able to drive and get around as it is my right leg. I hope to be off the crutches and out of the brace asap. Ali, I will try the bribery tip you gave Melissa! It seems there are a lot of different PT protocols. My doctor does not have me starting PT until the stitches are out 1 week post op. Is this common? I will have the CPM and ice machine. I have read mixed reviews on the use of the CPM - anyone have usage tips?

JWR
September 26, 2008 9:38 AM

As long as your brace is unhinged, you will be able to drive. Strong muscles going into surgery will have you driving sooner rather than later. I was driving on day 6 after surgery. Also had the stitches out on day 6, started PT on day 5. I didn't have the ice machine, but I heard they are amazing.

Tara
September 26, 2008 10:46 AM

Thanks PLP/gl - Well I think for me too leg lifts are close to the worst me, with bends actually the worst - leg straight is ok, flexion - yuck! And this electrical pulse thing was super yuck - did anyone have this? it sends these painful vibrations into four points to force a contraction - and then i have to do leg lifts during it or my own contracting. and then we did another electrical pulse thing - with ice - where I just got to relax - if you call that relaxing! Anyway, I think I have had a breakthru day with a lessening of pain and swelling (review - left acl and meniscus with some bonus arthritis treament 9 days ago, 37 yo female, biking accident) - anyway i am also happy to report that the pain gush when standing from sitting is dissipating quite a bit. thank goodness. and the numb shin spot is more tingly than numb. My weaknesses are quad strength and flexion with my strength extension. I would definitely recommend coming into surgery with as much quad strength as possible. i am worried about moving back into my apartment by myself (after living with my brother and his family) and heading back to work - hmmmm! Thanks to all again for updates and remarks.

Debbie S
September 26, 2008 1:20 PM

Tara, Yes- I have been getting the electric stimulation too. But, I actually like it because it feels like it is doing a lot of good, getting the muscles really contracted. But I know what you mean, it does feel kind of weird.

Kash
September 27, 2008 4:35 PM

I thank all the people for sharing their experiences. After reading these I finally decided to undergo ACL surgery. Here is my story and experience. I had my ACL surgery on the left knee on Aug 27. This was four months after the injury. I tore the ACL playing Badminton ( Might sound silly .. A lot of my friends and colleagues laughed )... I was so nervous and anxious on the day of the surgery. I hardly slept the night before. My surgery was scheduled for 7.30 AM. We reached the hospital one hour before and completed the paper work. Then the nurse took me to preop. They completed all formalities. The nurse shaved my knee, put saline and taught me how to use the crutches. My doctor stopped by and went over the procedures and gave me a lot of confidence. They took me in the operation theatre sharp at 7.30 am. I was given anesthesia and the next time I was awake it was in the recovery at around 10.00 AM. The nurse gave me a few saltines and ginger ale. I was completely drugged with painkillers. I had this huge brace around my knee and I was feeling so weird. Then the doctor stopped by and told us the surgery went fine. After about one hour in recovery I was wheeled out to my car. My wife drove me home. I had a friend come over to help me from my parking lot to the apartment. This walk was like never ending. I stopped multiple times and sat down couple of times to get my breath. I vomited twice during this time. I finally made it to my bed and had something to eat and slept. I kept on taking my pain medication every four-hour to avoid any pain. I was not able to sleep that night. Things got a little better the next day. I was running a fever of 100 degrees for the next two days and we were very nervous about it. Called the doctor’s office and they mentioned that’s normal due to anesthesia. The day of the surgery was the toughest. After which each day was better. I started PT third day of surgery. They just did the initial evaluation on the first day and gave me home exercises. I started doing these exercise 2 times a day. Initially I could not even lift my leg. My wife helped me with them. I was able to lift my leg on my own after 5 days. Right now I am 4 weeks past surgery. I go to physical therapy 3 times a week and do my home exercises regularly. As per the therapist my progress is as per protocol. I have achieved a flexion of 124 degrees and extension is zero. I started to work from home after two weeks and went to office in the fourth week. I also have started driving.

Biniyam
September 27, 2008 5:22 PM

first off, thank you for this information. My brother tore his ACL playing soccer and i thought it was just a simple thing and that he will be fine the next day but this was a different case. He did the surgery on friday september 26, 2008 at about 8 am. I wasn't there with him but i bet it hurt. What hurts me the most is the fact that he is lying on a bed next to me right now and he is sleeping, and there is nothing i can do to help him. It sucks to have that kind of feeling. He has pain when he wakes up and i can see it when it hurts him. I hate that. I love my broher although i haven't showed it but this experience has changed the way i look at my family forever. I just hope that he recovers fast with less pain. This is day one after the surgey and can somebody please tell me the necessary things i should be on the look out for. Maybe about the eletrical simulation and the ice thing?. Thank You very much.

melissa
September 28, 2008 1:46 PM

One more question...they gave me the option to go home with a iv in my upper thigh for the weekend for pain meds or pain pills. We live one hour away from the dr's office and I don't like the idea of being that far away on the weekend with a tube in a main vain. I handled a c-section with no pain meds after at all, should I be ok just taking the pain pills every 4 hours. I would like to think I have a high pain tolerance but this is pretty major surgery though. What did y'all do for pain the first few days?

c2g
September 29, 2008 7:25 AM

Had surgery 18 days ago using hamstring. Plant and twist tear playing basketball. Doing PT 3x/wk and can now ride a stationary bike for 30 min @ level 6/20 resistance. Can walk short distances with limp w/out crutches and still wear brace at night. Knee pain was bad for the first week and went through a 50 pill script of Percocet. Ever since, I've had a constant nerve pain running from the knee to my foot that especially bothers me during the night. Ice and elevation relieves it somewhat, but it's really driving me crazy. Pain meds have no effect. What else? I use a home stim unit 2x day with knee-straightening exercises. As for anyone asking what to expect for pain? Even with constant use of an ice machine and pain meds every 4-6 hrs, the first week was as hellish as everyone told me it would be.

c2g
September 29, 2008 7:31 AM

One more thing. As far as driving, 4 days after surgery I drove 100+ miles to stay at my parents' house while my wife was out of town on business. I regret doing that and should have arranged for a ride. The hardest part, aside from staying awake on the pain pills, was getting my leg in and out of the car.

Ali
September 29, 2008 8:10 AM

Hi Melissa - I was fine on tramadol hyrochloride,ibuprofen & paracetamol (which funnily enough I'd have dismissed as not being any use at all but the nurses said it's the best for bone pain). I've never heard of anyone being offered IV pain relief at home after such surgery in England so it wasn't an option for me. I've really not been in any pain at all other than the sharp pain I was getting in my lower leg bone when doing one of the physio exercises, which has now stopped.Really it's just discomfort from the swelling which I'm managing with icing.I bought a cyro cuff for icing for my first ACL reconstruction 3 years ago and very nearly gave it away twice to friends that have had ACL surgery - thank goodness I didn't as its worth it's weight in gold. I've actually stopped all pain relief now after just over a week,I'd nearly run out of the tramadol and the ibruprofen was beginning to really irratate my stoamch and causing my to go to the loo about 4 times a night - not what you need whilst unsteady & on cutches. I think you're right to take your own personal history of pain thresholds into account as well - I think like yourself mine is fairly high. Good luck let us know how it goes.

Aaron
September 30, 2008 2:58 PM

Tomorrow will be 3 weeks post-op for me. I had a lot of concerns shared here and think I can answer some of them. I had the cadaver ACL transplant, which is the easiest of the options, so having a replacement ACL grafted from the lower knee-cap ligament or a muscle tendon will be a little worse. Plus the surgery was on my left knee, so I was driving for my first physical therapy appointment. My knee was, of course, sore for a few days after the surgery, but I stopped taking my pain pills after 3 days. From what physical therapy has told me, it is good to keep your knee elevated and iced, but not to do it constantly. Keep the knee moving a little. Another search on Google can bring up some helpful sites on proper icing techniques. Early on it is a good time to work on straightening out the knee. Personally, I would keep my leg propped out straight until that began hurting, then I would prop it up slightly bent to relieve the pain, then back to straight out. The pain in your knee is common when you go from laying or sitting, to standing. I'm guessing the fluid on the knee puts pressure on the incisions, and it will hurt a little until the incisions adjust. I started physical therapy 5 days post-op. They told me to start putting 25% weight on it, which is equal to just setting your foot on the floor. Around 7 days post-op, I felt like my knee just wasn't getting better and had a "down" day, which I've heard is common after surgeries. The next day (8 days post-op) I told the physical therapist it felt like a completely different knee from the day before. The pain when standing started to subside, I could put a little more pressure on the knee when standing, and my range started to increase (all because swelling started to go down). They told me to start putting 50% weight on my knee, which I had already started doing naturally. Physical therapy itself is not as scary as I thought it was going to be. For me, they started by concentrating on just moving my knee. Each visit, it was moving further and further by itself. They never pushed it beyond what it was doing itself. It did swell some from the exercises, but that is to be expected. All in all, they said it could take up to 6 weeks or more for the swelling to go down. They also said it is not a good idea to push your knee to do more than it can, just get your knee moving in a comfort zone to where you can feel a stretch. Two weeks post-op, and they said to put 75% weight on it, which is using just one crutch. My range was 112 degrees. I maxed out one of their machines that bends the knee for you for a set time, and they put me on a stationary bike. That was a little painful at first, but I'm getting used to it. As I close in on week 3, I'm starting to walk better, and can take a few steps without the crutch, but I don't think I'll lose them completely this week. My range of motion is almost equal to my right, healthy leg. I only lack 3 to 4 inches. I started back to work, and still have considerable swelling, but the physical therapy exercises are working and I can feel my knee getting better. Overall, I feel I was a lot more scared than I should have been going in to all of this.

Kash
October 1, 2008 7:33 PM

Melissa - Taking pains pills every 4 hours should be fine. get the strongest available pain pills and you should be fine. Make sure you take these pills on time. you do not want the pain to start and then take the pill. it takes a while for the pills to be effective.

JWR
October 6, 2008 6:59 AM

14 weeks post-op this week. Stepped onto a treadmill for a run for the first time since March. Went one mile in 10 minutes. Felt weird to run for a "long" period of time. No real pain or swelling.

Ann
October 6, 2008 3:58 PM

My daughter had ACL reconstruction with allograft on Sept. 22. Recovery seemed to be going well until Sept. 30 when her knee started to swell and pain level increased. Her physician removed some fluid which initially didn't show signs of infection and put her on antibiotics, Oct. 3. Swelling and pain were starting to subside today when final results of the culture indicated a low grade infection. She will have the "wash" of the area using existing incisions under general anesthesia tomorrow. We have lots of questions regarding recovery etc but haven't heard back from the doctor. Has anyone had this procedure? Suggestions?

MikeC
October 8, 2008 12:33 PM

Hi, I've now read about two years worth of posts to the blog and am feeling at times comforted hearing about those fantastic recoveries but mostly horrified by the not so easy ones. I have a torn right ACL with no collateral damage other than a little to the meniscus. Like many of you I am a weekend warrior playing in a men's lacrosse league and injured my knee on Sep 30th dodging an opposing player. I will be 36 years old in a few weeks and am in pretty good shape. I've had plenty of bumps and nruises over the years even a surgery or two (survived a impacted kidney stone) but nothing like this. I can walk with a small limp and have some weakness but no pain just slight discomfort. I have begun preoperative rehab and am working on ROM and strengthening. I feel like a bug chicken because I am so scared of the post-op pain and recovery process that I am at times considering postponing or not proceeding with the surgery. Just writing about this is making me well-up and I feel like a total wussy. I do have som legitimate oncerns though about the timing of an operation and would appreciate some additional advice (my brother who has had his achilles done and a relatively quick recovery seems to be minimizing my situation and I fear my wife does'nt realize how difficult this will be on the her and the kids). In addition to working I am enrolled in an executive MBA program and we have classes once each week. I am in my second to last semester and stopping midway is not an option. I will have midterms completed on October 31st and finals on Dec 12th. No matter what I do I will miss at a minimum one class day and I assume two. With taht in mind I have thought about scheduling surgery for Nov. 5. Another option would be to postpone surgery until I graduate in May 2009. This option does give me more time to strengthen my leg but also more opportunities to damage it farther and puts recovery that much farther out. I'd like to be able to continue with my lacrosse and coaching my sons who are 7 and 10 or simlpy roughhousing with them without fear of blowing out my knee. As I said I can get around fine and full weight bear already but I know that is just the avoidance talking. My doctor is supposed to be quite good and his practice handles the NY Jets footbal team. He has said that we should go with and Allograft or Autograft Hammstring. I am leaning to the Allograft (I did mention I am a chicken) because I understand that the postoperative discomfort is lessened and there would be no nerve damage or weakness due to the harvesting. I am however concerned by some research I've done that questions the longterm viabiliy of these (remember chicken, only want to do this once if at all) Somebody please help me feel better. I can't seem to focus and need to get my emotions under control.

Khee Wong
October 8, 2008 7:16 PM

I was really surprised to find out that this thread is still alive since November 2004. It is great read as it has all kind of information on ACL surgery. As a matter of fact, I Just had my ACL/Meniscus done this morning. After spoke with my Doctor, we opted to use allograft for reconstruction. I went in at 6:00 AM this morning, after all the preparations and paper works. I was in the operating room at about 7:30 AM and the surgery was completed at about 9:30 AM. I was at home at about 1:00 PM. I wasn’t in a lot of pains from the surgery; it is just a little sore. I have not taken any pain medicine yet. I got a big Velcro brace on it together with muscle stimulating equipment. I had been vomiting twice at home due the anesthesia; I have anticipated this as it had happened to my previous surgery. Now, I am ready to be on the long road for PT. Oh one thing I found out very important was to do pre-ops PT to strengthen which has helped me a lot. This is my current experiences so far and I would keep you guys/gals posted as it goes. In case anyone wants to know, I torn my during soccer match, like most of the people I heard a “POP”

Tom
October 9, 2008 12:59 PM

I am scheduled for ACL surgery in December 2008. My surgeon is a well known doctor at MGH. He has given me the option of a hamstring tendon or a cadaver patela tendon/bone graff. I have done a lot of research on both options and am leaning towards using my own tendon (hamstring)...as Tiger Woods has done. I am 46 years old and active in soccer and skiing. I am not concerned about a quick revovery, I want to chose the option that will be best for the long term. Has anyone with a hamstring ACL repair noticed a decrease in hamstring funtionality after a year? I don't want to lose speed on the soccer field. Anyone have a strong opinion one way or the other?

MikeC
October 9, 2008 1:56 PM

I'm seing my surgeon again tomorow after our intial office visit last week while I was still swollen. He has told me that the MRI shows a torn ACL (right knee) and some minor damage to the center of the meniscus. Like almost everyone else I hurt my knee playing lacrosse on artificial turf indoors. I am 36 and in reasonably good shape (meaning I can run 3 miles in 24 minutes without difficulty and biked 30 miles a few days in a row while on vacation in NC this summer) but not an avid exerciser mainly a weekend warrior. Like Tom above I am wondering which graft to go with or to even have surgery. The recovery and associated pain from the hammy autograft are not really making me too excited and I am actually leaning to the allograft. I'll ask my doc which one he prefers but, does anyone have anything solid regarding the longterm viability on the allograft. I am also wondering has anyone had this same experience - it doesn't hurt never really did except when reaching max extension and flexion and feels pretty stable more like a tweak right now. My ROM is about 98/120 now (can force it to more) and was 96/110 on Monday only 1 1/2 weeks after the "pop" on Sep 30. My goals are to return to playing men's league lax (I'm a goalie), coaching my kids in sports, and skiing. Thanks.

Ali
October 10, 2008 4:00 AM

Tom - I've just had my second hamstring tendon repair (other knee this time).If anything after the first op eventually my hamstings were stronger than before after all the physio I did. I was so pleased to be mended and active again I took up more sports so that helped as well - although that was a factor in me doing the other one in! As mentioned before on this site make sure your hamstrings are as strong as possible before the surgery as they do just melt away over the first few weeks post op even if you are doing the physio.

Tom
October 10, 2008 9:45 AM

Ali...thanks for the inspiration! Any suggestions on some simple hamstring exercises that I could do at home? My knee feels good, I can go up and donw stairs no problem. In fact it almost feels completely normal except that it wants to hyper-extend occassionally. Obviosly I am keeping it safe amd not doing anything stupid. Thanks again for your thoughts.

SportsMom
October 10, 2008 9:49 AM

Tom, I am also in the 40 group considering the hamstring over the allograft. While the recovery might be longer I am hoping my hamstring will look good enough to use. Do as much pre-hab PT as possible to strenghthen your hamstring and quad. Hoping to be back on the tennis court and soccer field in late April/early May.

Ali
October 10, 2008 10:08 AM

Hi Tom - I was lucky enough to get physio pre-op,they got me doing hamstring curls using differing strength resistance bands - you can buy these and use them at home.Also calf raises (hanging your heels off a step)on both legs and just on the leg that's being mended,lots of wobble board balances on one leg,squats and lunges. After the first op I was back doing the thing that broke my ACL (paragliding) after about 7 months.It took longer for the leg to feel completely normal but it ended up being stronger than my "good" leg. Good luck - let us know how it goes.

JWR
October 10, 2008 5:03 PM

try some bridges. Works well with a swiss ball, but if you dont, lie on your back on the floor, place your feet on the chair or couch and push up with your feet. do 3x10. Also do it "marching" alternating, lifting legs.

Phil
October 11, 2008 5:17 AM

I had my ACL reconnstructed using a hamstring graft 2 days ago. For some reason they kept me in hospital for 2 nights(got home about 2 hours ago). I'm trying to limit the amount of painkillers that I take. About 12 hours after the op the PT came to see me to show me some basic excises that I need to do, I found these to be quite painful. It was in April 2007 that I damaged the ligament but because of NHS waiting lists I've had quite a long wait, I not sure if this caused further damage or not.

Ali
October 11, 2008 10:55 AM

Phil - don't be too hard on yourself - take the painkillers - at least for the first week. I think you really need them - especially so you can do the physio which is essential.I'm three weeks post op and ditched all the painkillers after a week.Apparently paracetamol is the best thing for bone pain so at least stick with that. Unless your knee was collapsing a lot prior to the surgery it's unlikely to have caused any other damage. Do check with your surgeon,they'll have photo's of the inside of your knee which they usually show you and will be able to see if anything else had been damaged. Good luck with the rehab.

SportsMom
October 13, 2008 8:48 AM

ACl reconstruction scheduled for tomorrow. Thanks to everyone that posts on this site, I feel like I am prepared with all the experiences and insight provided here! I am looking to get off the pain killers as quickly as possible and get the PT started.

Kim
October 13, 2008 1:14 PM

Ali - I too sustained my injury paragliding (fast downwind landing) 1 week ago. Tore ACL,LCL,MCL & some meniscus damage. Will do the hamstring graft on the 31st. How did your 2nd surgery compare to first? I will fly off of anything but am a wus when it comes to needles and nausea. My biggest fear is trying to hard to get back and re-injuring. Did you feel secure getting airborne after so much time off? Were you able to at least do any kiting before 7 months? Would love to hear more about your recovery for this activity. Kim

FJ
October 13, 2008 2:42 PM

I has an Allograft ACL replacement 4 1/2 weeks ago and wished I had found this thread earlier. Although many have already described their experiences, I will do the same and hope it might help someone: - I tore my ACL playing soccer 06/29/08. The Dr who checked my knee thought it was stable enough and did not detect the tear at that point. He prescribed some therapy. After 4 weeks. things were going better, but it was clear that there was something wrong with my knee and my PT recommended an MRI. Sure enough, torn ACL, with small meniscus tear. Bottom line, if you have a doubt about the diagnosis, insist on getting an MRI ASAP. You should still wait before getting the surgery (all Dr will recommend you do so so your knee has some time to heal from the injury for an easier surgery). I had my first appointment with the orthopaedic surgeon in late August. Since 80% of the ACL reconstruction he did were allografts, he recommended I used this technique for faster recovery. I consulted a friend, an orthopaedic surgeon herself, who told me to go with the recommendation. - I had my surgery on 9/12/08, and started using the CPM machine the day after the surgery. I stopped using the pain killers after a couple of days and started walking with crutches putting as much weight as I could on my leg almost right away based on the Dr's recommendation (don't over do it). I also did the regimen of exercises recommenced twice a day (quad, hamstring contractions, leg raises...). - After about 2 weeks, I no longer needed crutches, maxed out the CPM range (120) and started walking with the brace unlocked. - After 3 weeks, I could walk about normally with a slight limp without a brace and started biking (stationary, 3 days/week, 10 to 20 minutes) - After 4 weeks, I stopped using the brace altogether. - After 4 1/2 weeks, I started leg press exercises during PT Overall, I am told that my range of motion is great and my recovery is going very fast (according to my PT). So if you wonder what type of replacement you should get, I would strongly recommend the Allograft based on my own experience. - Make sure to do the exercises religiously and start as soon as you can. - With the CPM angle, don't hesitate to increase the angle more than 10 degres/day as long as your knee feels OK and try to do it a few times a day. I did a lot better when I did it 3 times a days than in a straight shot. - Put weight on your leg as soon as you can (as long as you are comfortable, increase the weight until you get rid off the crutches altogether). I will post more updates whenever I have some. Cheers FJ

Matt Brunei
August 15, 2010 6:23 PM

Last week on the 9 Aug 2010 i did my ACL Surgery ... now recovery .... still feel very tight on my leg ....

cheryl odenbach
November 21, 2010 4:11 PM

help, i had my a acl repaired with my hamstring, and had some meniscus cartilage taken out and also had a partillaly torn mcl, it has been 7 months and i still have alot of swelling, and some days its really sore, i want to run so bad, but cant, can anybody let me know how long it took them to get back to normal, maybe its my age, im 49, thanks

Courtney
January 6, 2011 3:52 PM

My 9 year old son has a complete ACL tear. We have seen 2 different doctors to discuss options. Since he is so young the surgery is different than what they do for adults since they cannot go through the growth plates. We are pretty sure that we will move forward with the option to do the surgery because we do not want our son to do any more damage than what has already been done. Does anyone know of a young child that has been through this.

Vikki
January 8, 2011 8:50 PM

I had my Acl repair surgery 3 days ago, i can handle the pain and am attempting the exercises but am concerned that if i stand up for more than 15 minutes i get really dizzy and feel sick. Is that normal? Also how high am i suppost to be elevating my leg???

pamela vogel
April 26, 2011 6:18 PM

I am 26 years old I tore my acl feb 13 skiing and becuase i was stubborn didn't go to the doc til 6 week later. it was another 4 weeks before the surgery. I opted for the cadaver ligiment becuase i have 3 children and a full time job on the farm. i am one week after the surgery and remember to take the motrin only becuase of the swelling. i have taken two steps without crutches. I was instructed toput full weight on it and do full range of motion (to the best of my ability). this seems to contradict what others have said. So far it seems the more active you are the faster it heals. I also take a lot of herbs. pamelavogel319@hotmail.com

Sam
May 15, 2011 4:55 PM

I had my ACL reconstruction surgery roughly a week ago by a renown surgeon and have had a very rapid recovery which I think is surprising. The nurses had me walking to the bathroom the same day as the surgery (without any brace on the knee). I had drains in my knee which seems to have kept swelling right down to almost no swelling. Its now 6 days after surgery and i can hobble around quite comfortably without crutches without much pain. I am also not taking any pain killers. I have ~90 degrees of movement in the knee already, which I have achieved by doing the recommended physio exercises which are slightly painful to complete. Hope this helps those who are about to undergo surgery.

J Rider
May 21, 2011 1:34 PM

I am almost 3 weeks post acl replacement(left knee), partial meniscus repair, hammy lig. option. Waited 2 years for the surgery, roadbiking and x-country skiing only during that time. Avid gym nut, did pre-op leg stuff right up to day before surgery(day). Still on crutches, or a cane, when at home, doing physio, daily, and am quite slow getting rid of pain (6-7 out of 10) I use Advil, when going to bed. I have enough range of motion to ride a recumbent for 10-20 mins. pain free at physio., but the aftermath is swelling and pain to 7out of 10 for about 16 hours. Ice 6-10 times every 24 hours, and often ice at night when pain keeps me awake. The leg still loves to be elevated with knee 12 inches above heart. I am hoping the slight bulge through my skin on left upper entry cut, will settle down, it looks quite morbid, and chaffs on my DonJoy brace. Anyone have this bulge issue?

Tevin Thomann
August 2, 2011 10:40 AM

I just got ACL surgery last week. I went in to get a fix in my brace and they told me i need to work on straightening my leg so i can be up n down completely.. what stretches can i use to help this becuz i have become nervous about it lol to be honest...im a college bball player needing advise!

Kaylee Casteel
June 4, 2012 7:51 PM

I'm a 14 year old girl that tore my acl playing football like you did but I had stepped in a hole and foot got stuck. I knew something was wrong but kept playing (dumb) and didn't even find out what had actually happened for about 3 weeks. I had the surgery May 9th and when the nerve block thing wore off, the pain was HORRIBLE. Ive had many problems and am just now getting to where I can walk without crutches but still have a big limp. I'm starting to get the bump on the incision below my knee, and the scar tissue is starting to make a huge bump in the back of my knee which makes it hard to do some PT exercises. I'm worried about sports this year because it'll be my first year to play high school sports and they say it may take up to 6 months to fully recover, and practices start in August.

Steve
June 6, 2012 9:34 AM

All, It is great/sad to see this site up and running with so many comments. My last post was in 2005 when I had my surgery on Jan 14, 2005. I tore my L-ACL playing soccer almost 7 years ago. Well, if you are reading this post, than you will find that I just recently met with my ortho (same that did my 2005 op) this morning and was informed that I suffered a complete tear to my R-ACL this time. Kinda bummed, actually really bummed. I'm gonna wait until Sept to schedule the surgery so I can take the winter to rehab and hopefully be back onto the field by summer of 2013. What's different this time? The injury happened during a game and an opposing player fell on the outside of my calf just underneath my knee. The knee collapsed inside and I felt the shhhhh...ping...snap pop inside my knee and a series of crunching sounds. Not good I thought, actually I prayed (even though I'm not religious, by any stretch) that it was only a meniscus tear and would not require a full op. That was almost 4 weeks ago in early May. The funny thing is that I have way too much knowledge and know more friends and teammates that have had a major tear and everyone had a diagnosis. But, alas my trusty sports surgeon said, full tear, the knee test showed no stopping, just kept sliding. The bad... 1. I know what to expect 2. I am 7 years older, I was 32 when I did my L-ACL + meniscus 3. I don't know if my recovery will go quite as smooth as 2005 4. I have less patience now for dorment activities 5. My business is getting very busy 6. I know what to expect (maybe my niaveness was good?) The good... 1. I'm in much better shape now at 39 than 32 2. I know what to expect and can even improve on the things I skimped on the recovery process, although I was pretty "by the book" in 2005 3. I had some meniscus pain in the same knee, so maybe he can kill 2 birds with one stone and fix that too? Unfortunately, I tore that too. Alot of locking/clicking going on in the knee since the injury This site was very helpful during my recovery both writing and reading. I hope to share my second experience with everyone again :( Cheers!!!

Michael R Johnson
December 23, 2019 7:26 PM

I'm so jealous hearing your stories about ACL surgery and the young folks are very nervous about it. Well I was too back in 1984 and let me tell you things were much different back then as far as the surgery and rehab goes. I was an athlete way back when and tore my ACL and MCL in my right knee. Drs were able to staple my ACL back together or back on (anyone heard of this back then), but they told my dad my MCL was like spaghetti and they couldn't do much for it ?? Bet they could now tho. I was put into 2 temporary casts, yes casts. I know they don't cast the knee anymore I heard? Once the staples were taken out and that 2nd half cast removed they bent my knee a little bit rather than keep it straight and I had to wear that cast 7-8 months. Not 1-2 months but like 8 months if I remember right. Yes it sucked. Once removed I had to sit in the whirlpool and they wanted me to pull myself all the way forward and back. I never hurt so bad. This was worse than the surgery now. Tears rolling down my face, big school jock crying doing rehab now know as physical therapy. I said you have your leg stuck in a bent position for 8 months never getting another cast or even allowing it to breathe or get washed and cleaned and you try to bend it or have squat down, or pull yourself forward so your butt touches the back of your legs. Omg you guys have no idea how bad that hurts trying to stretch those ligaments and gain the mobility back. Today they reconstruct the knee to better than it originally was. Back then no way. It was a 1 yr off mandatory injury and you can bust your butt in rehab but it will never be the same. Fast forward 35 yrs later i couldn't take the bone on bone pain anymore and had my knees replaced around 50 yrs old. Dr told me my right knee with the ACL/MCL injury mind you, had nothing left in there. Everything was gone. No ACL no cartilage, no nothing again I say but bone on bone that rubbed so long it developed a rut in the bone that the other bone would fall in this allowing me to walk. Crazy huh. I for one am glad to see they came a long way since 1984 and I'm here to say no matter what it is no matter how bad you hurt do not put off surgery. Whether it's ACL like I had, whether is total knee replacement like I had, the worst thing I did was wait so long to have it. Sure it's going to hurt 4 month or two after but then as long as you do physical therapy she'll be so much better down the road for years to come but I put up with that aching pain everyday for 3 years when I should have had surgery. You young folks you'll be perfectly fine trust me. Good luck to you all.

Michael R Johnson
December 23, 2019 7:26 PM

I'm so jealous hearing your stories about ACL surgery and the young folks are very nervous about it. Well I was too back in 1984 and let me tell you things were much different back then as far as the surgery and rehab goes. I was an athlete way back when and tore my ACL and MCL in my right knee. Drs were able to staple my ACL back together or back on (anyone heard of this back then), but they told my dad my MCL was like spaghetti and they couldn't do much for it ?? Bet they could now tho. I was put into 2 temporary casts, yes casts. I know they don't cast the knee anymore I heard? Once the staples were taken out and that 2nd half cast removed they bent my knee a little bit rather than keep it straight and I had to wear that cast 7-8 months. Not 1-2 months but like 8 months if I remember right. Yes it sucked. Once removed I had to sit in the whirlpool and they wanted me to pull myself all the way forward and back. I never hurt so bad. This was worse than the surgery now. Tears rolling down my face, big school jock crying doing rehab now know as physical therapy. I said you have your leg stuck in a bent position for 8 months never getting another cast or even allowing it to breathe or get washed and cleaned and you try to bend it or have squat down, or pull yourself forward so your butt touches the back of your legs. Omg you guys have no idea how bad that hurts trying to stretch those ligaments and gain the mobility back. Today they reconstruct the knee to better than it originally was. Back then no way. It was a 1 yr off mandatory injury and you can bust your butt in rehab but it will never be the same. Fast forward 35 yrs later i couldn't take the bone on bone pain anymore and had my knees replaced around 50 yrs old. Dr told me my right knee with the ACL/MCL injury mind you, had nothing left in there. Everything was gone. No ACL no cartilage, no nothing again I say but bone on bone that rubbed so long it developed a rut in the bone that the other bone would fall in this allowing me to walk. Crazy huh. I for one am glad to see they came a long way since 1984 and I'm here to say no matter what it is no matter how bad you hurt do not put off surgery. Whether it's ACL like I had, whether is total knee replacement like I had, the worst thing I did was wait so long to have it. Sure it's going to hurt 4 month or two after but then as long as you do physical therapy she'll be so much better down the road for years to come but I put up with that aching pain everyday for 3 years when I should have had surgery. You young folks you'll be perfectly fine trust me. Good luck to you all.

This discussion has been closed.

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