ACL Rehabilitation For Active Adults - The Start of Physical Therapy
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Health Fitness -> subcategory Other.
ACL Rehabilitation for Active Adults: Beginning Physical Therapy
Summary:
Starting physical therapy is the first real step towards recovery after ACL reconstruction. It's the phase where you'll relearn how to walk on your repaired knee and work towards restoring your leg to its pre-surgery condition.
Keywords:
ACL Reconstruction, Rehab, Physical Therapy
Article:
The initial two weeks following ACL reconstruction are typically sedentary, marked by rest, sleep, discomfort, and possibly significant pain. However, beginning physical therapy marks the first major step towards recovery. This phase involves retraining yourself to walk on your repaired knee and working towards bringing your leg back to its pre-surgery condition. Even though your leg was immobile for two weeks or less, you may experience some muscle atrophy that needs addressing through physical therapy.
Starting therapy can be exciting, sometimes challenging, and maybe even intimidating. But with dedication and commitment, you will soon return to your active lifestyle, potentially stronger than before your surgery.
As you begin your therapy sessions, consider these important points:
1. Trust Yourself:
You'll soon be asking your repaired leg to perform tasks it hasn’t done in weeks, like lifting, bending, knee exercises, or cycling on a stationary bike. Have faith in your healing process, knowing you can handle what lies ahead.
2. Trust Your Physical Therapist:
Therapists may request activities that seem daunting, but remember they are professionally trained to aid your recovery. They understand what steps are necessary for a successful rehabilitation.
3. Focus on Form:
Pay attention to your form when performing exercises, and follow your therapist’s instructions closely. Minor adjustments or lack of concentration can significantly impact the effectiveness of your routines.
4. Ice and Elevate:
It's crucial to maintain a regimen of icing and elevating your knee, especially following sessions, much like in the first two weeks.
5. Pace Yourself:
While you might feel the urge to push your limits, it's vital to heed your therapist’s advice on what you should and shouldn’t do.
6. Follow Medication Guidelines:
Take prescribed and over-the-counter medications as directed to facilitate healing and reduce discomfort during therapy.
7. Do Home Exercises:
Performing home exercises between sessions is vital, as it significantly contributes to regaining flexibility and range of motion, especially in the first month.
8. Recognize Pain Types:
You'll experience sensations you hadn’t felt before. Inform your therapist about any intense or sharp pain sensations.
9. Consider a Stool Softener:
Consult your doctor about using a stool softener. Some pain medications can cause constipation, and this can help mitigate that side effect.
10. Stay Hydrated:
Maintain an adequate intake of fluids throughout your recovery.
As you progress with stretching and range-of-motion exercises, you'll soon move on to the next stage of your therapy: strengthening.
This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you have, or suspect you have, a medical issue, contact your doctor promptly.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: ACL Rehabilitation For Active Adults - The Start of Physical Therapy.
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