Tests and procedures used to diagnose ACL injuries accurately. Initial Evaluation The diagnosis of an ACL injury begins with a detailed patient history. Your healthcare provider will ask about the mechanism of injury, whether you heard or felt a “pop,” the timing of swelling, and any sensation of knee instability. This history often provides valuable clues about the nature and […]
There are different surgical approaches and graft choices for ACL reconstruction. But the first question might be “Why have surgery at all?” Or, “Do I really need surgery.” Core Issues Regarding ACL Surgery The primary concern regarding considerations of ACL reconstruction is knee stability. There’s multiple structures in the knee that provide stability, including four different ligaments. During a knee […]
ACL Surgery PREhab: Why Preparing Before Surgery Matters When it comes to ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) reconstruction, recovery doesn’t begin in the operating room. It starts well before. “Prehab,” or pre-surgical rehabilitation, plays a critical role in setting the stage for a successful surgery and smoother recovery. Why Prehab Matters In the days or weeks following an ACL tear, the […]
Pre-Surgery Preparation Exercises Pre-ACL surgery preparation exercises, (often called prehab), are crucial for athletes and individuals who want to strengthen their knees and reduce the risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. These exercises focus on improving muscle strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination, which are essential for stabilizing the knee joint during physical activities. You’ll want to talk to your […]
The Power of Cold: How Cold Therapy Accelerates ACL Surgery Recovery When it comes to ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery recovery, cold and compression therapy can offer tangible results. Proven in clinical studies and supported by decades of orthopedic practice, cold therapy is a cornerstone in managing pain, swelling, and healing after reconstruction surgery. Why Cold Therapy Works Cold therapy […]
Strategies for managing pain throughout the recovery process. Post Injury – Pre-Surgery Pain management between the time of injury and surgery often focuses on reducing inflammation, protecting the joint, and maintaining as much comfort and function as possible. Initial strategies typically include the RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and the use of over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs, […]
Using the Bathroom After ACL Surgery Recovering from ACL surgery brings plenty of challenges. And one of the most under-discussed but important ones is simply using the bathroom. Pain, mobility issues, medications, and swelling all make this basic task a bit more complicated. Here’s a practical guide to help make your post-op bathroom experience safer, easier, and less painful. Support […]
Recovering from an ACL injury or surgery can significantly impact your ability to walk, stand, or navigate your environment. Proper use of mobility aids not only reduces pain and swelling but also prevents further injury and promotes a safer, faster recovery. There are actually a wide variety of mobility aids. Here’s a quick survey along with some basics about how […]
Using a TENS/EMS Unit for Quad Activation After ACL Surgery Regaining quadriceps strength after ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery is one of the most important parts of rehabilitation. One helpful tool that may assist in this process is a neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) unit ,often sold as TENS/EMS devices. But while they can aid quad activation, they must be used […]
After an ACL injury, (and perhaps other associated knee damage), there are some activities that may present more risk for further damage. This is the case pre-surgery and after surgery to varying degrees. There are just some things that should be either avoided altogether or handled with a great deal more care. Post surgery, over time through rehab, people often […]