How long is the recovery after an ACL reconstruction?
Recovery periods vary from person to person. In general, the patient is allowed to walk immediately after the surgery with crutches and a knee brace (that allows the knee to fully extend). Crutches and the brace are used until the patient walks comfortably and has regained good control of the quadriceps muscles. Physical therapy should begin immediately after surgery to restore the range of motion and muscle tone in the leg. Under the close supervision of a therapist, the patient can generally reduce swelling and restore range of motion in the knee within a couple of weeks. Stitches are removed from the leg within 10 to 14 days. Stationary cycling begins early in the rehab program and jogging is allowed at approximately eight to12 weeks after surgery. Pivoting activities in a controlled setting begin around 16 weeks after surgery. Full return to all activities and sports occurs approximately six months after surgery provided the patient has regained nearly full muscle strength in the i
