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The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) holds a significant force on your knee. But you can experience an ACL rupture or tear, especially if you are a recreational or professional athlete. However, the infirmity can be effectively managed through ACL reconstruction in West Chester to help you get back to your quality of life. The rehabilitation process after your surgery is vital to ensure you recover effectively. Your provider will teach you how to rehab your knee after the treatment. Additionally, here is what you can do immediately following an ACL reconstruction surgery. Follow through.
Use a Knee Brace
Your knee needs to be stabilized following surgery, and your doctor will probably recommend a knee brace. The knee brace keeps your knee in place, supports it, and stabilizes it as it begins to heal. You will wear the brace for about four to six weeks. Ensure that you only wear the brace when your knee is at rest and not performing rehabilitation exercises. Also, ensure you learn how to wear the brace around the kneecap and secure it in place tightly.
Elevate Your Leg
You can avoid swelling by elevating your leg, especially for the first week after your treatment. Although your provider may put your knee in a passive motion machine to keep your leg elevated and avoid swelling, you should learn how to elevate it on your own. The elevation is the first step of rehabilitation, and you should consult your doctor on how to do it. Note that you will have to bend your knee for about 0 to30 degrees angle. However, avoid using pillows to elevate your knee as they might prevent your knee from straightening.
Take Painkillers
You can take some pain medications to relieve any pain you might be experiencing. However, consult your provider before getting over-the-counter painkillers to ensure you get the right drugs. Pain can be unpleasant and detrimental to your recovery as it will weaken the muscles around your knee. But some medications will relieve the pain and bring down any swelling and inflammation. In most cases, your provider might recommend ketorolac drugs immediately following your treatment.
Ice Your Knee
You can place ice packs on your knee to eliminate any swelling as it might start swelling immediately after surgery. The cold therapy will constrict the blood vessels limiting fluids around your knee. However, do not apply the ice pack directly to your skin as it may affect your skin. Use a wrap and apply it for about 20 minutes at a time, taking breaks. Using the ice continuously could melt it around the wound, making the treatment area wet. Re-apply the ice when your knee feels warm again. You can also get an automatic ice machine, although the can be expensive.
Do Some Straightening Exercises
Straightening is a crucial part of rehabilitation following an ACL reconstruction surgery. Inability to fully straighten your knee may call for revision surgery. Therefore, learn some exercises to help you straighten your knee and bring down swelling and faster recovery. You can sit down and extend your legs in front while placing a towel underneath the treated ankle. You can also lie down, keeping your knee straight, and try to lift your leg vertically.
Hear it from Brian Rottinghaus, MD, an orthopedic surgeon, and sports medicine expert. Book your ACL reconstruction consultation appointment today to learn if you can gain from it and know all you can expect, including recovery.
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