While recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament or ACL injury will surely take time, there are ways to speed up the process. Often ACL injuries are treated via arthroscopic surgery in an outpatient setup. What’s great about the outpatient scenario is that scheduling is done in advance, allowing patients and their physicians to formulate both a sound pre-surgery and post-surgery treatment and recovery plan, explains sports rehab and training student Ryan Shephard.
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Of course, certain injuries take longer to completely heal, depending on the severity. And some procedures will be more invasive than others. But the patient’s mindset plays a big part in speeding up the healing process. Remember that it takes time for the knee to get back to normal, and patience is key. Abide by what the doctor has instructed and never miss planned appointments to see if the knee is healing properly.
Keeping to post-operative visit schedules should be coupled with equally regular visits to the referred physical therapist. Both your physician and physical therapist would coordinate in making a sound rehab program. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if certain instructions are unclear. Also, never miss any follow-up appointments.
Aside from getting enough rest and sleep and making sure that you eat properly and maintain proper nutrition, make sure to never miss taking your pain medication, as prescribed. These medications are important and are usually coupled with supplements are other vitamins. Lastly and most importantly, the road to recovery is hastened with rehab exercises, adds Ryan Shephard. But make sure that these routines strictly follow the exercise program designed by your physical therapist, as what you are allowed to do depends on various factors like your current health, fitness level, and age.
Ryan Shephard is a University of Michigan student hoping to become an expert sports rehab and training professional someday. He is majoring in Athletic Training. More info on Ryan and his interests here.
Ryan Shephard 