Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction rehabilitation usually takes 3 to 6 months.
Early in the postoperative period, patients can perform isometric contraction of the quadriceps muscle, as well as straight leg raising with active plantarflexion and dorsiflexion of the knee. Knee flexion and extension activities can be performed several times a day under the protection of a knee brace, and knee flexion should reach 120 degrees in about 6 weeks and return to the same level as the healthy side in 3 months.
Within six months after the operation, only moderate muscle resistance training can be carried out, and it is not allowed to participate in sports activities to prevent the ligament from rupturing again.
In the process of rehabilitation training, attention should be paid to the use of restrictive protective braces for 2 months, walking with crutches for 6 weeks. Ice can be applied for 15-30 minutes after each rehabilitation training to reduce edema and pain symptoms. Resistance training can be added to straight leg raising and joint flexion. Monthly review in the first 3 months after surgery and every 3 months thereafter.
It is recommended that patients carry out rehabilitation training gradually under the guidance of professional physicians or rehabilitation therapists to prevent secondary injuries caused by improper exercise.