Are you injured and preparing for ACL Surgery? Without a doubt, we know undergoing ACL surgery can be a daunting experience, but knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make all the difference.
In this blog, we will share the things that you can expect before your surgery together with the proper preparation that can lead to a quicker recovery and a successful return to sport. This guide will walk you through the key steps to take before your ACL surgery, ensuring you set yourself up for long-term success.
1. Set Realistic Expectations
It’s crucial to mentally prepare for the ACL surgery and recovery process. Surgery is just one step in the journey, and it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the recovery timeline and milestones.
What to keep in mind:
- Recovery is gradual: Don’t rush the process. It can take 6-12 months to return to your sport.
- Embrace the rehab journey: Physical therapy is key to ensuring proper healing and preventing re-injury.
- Celebrate small victories: Focus on short-term goals like regaining mobility and strength.
Check out our video 5 Must-Do’s Before Orthopedic Surgery provides more insight into preparing you for surgery.
2. Pre-Surgery Rehabilitation (Prehab)
Before your ACL surgery, it’s essential to strengthen the muscles surrounding your knee and leg to improve post-surgery outcomes. Prehab exercises can help maintain your range of motion, prevent muscle atrophy, and reduce swelling, which will make your recovery smoother and faster.
Key exercises to focus on:
- Quadriceps strengthening: Build muscle in the front of your thigh to support your knee.
- Hamstring exercises: Strengthen the muscles at the back of your leg to stabilize the knee joint.
- Hip and core exercises: Enhancing hip stability and core strength is crucial for overall balance and recovery.
3. Nutrition and Hydration
Your body needs proper fuel to heal effectively. Prioritize a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support tissue healing and immune function. Focus on:
- Protein: Helps repair and build muscle tissue.
- Antioxidants and Vitamins (C, D, E): These nutrients aid in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated ensures optimal blood flow and reduces the risk of complications.
- Maintaining a healthy, nutrient-rich diet will help prepare your body for surgery and speed up the recovery process.
Check out our video on how the Road to Recovery Starts by Being Healthy for more information on maintaining a healthy body and mind throughout the entire recovery process.
4. Mental Preparation and Mindset
Preparing your mental game is just as crucial as physical preparation. Surgery and recovery can be mentally challenging, especially for athletes eager to return to the field. A positive mindset can significantly impact your recovery. Stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and visualization can help ease anxiety and keep you focused on your long-term recovery goals.
At Myokinetix, we’ve seen successful recoveries like our past patient Katie’s. She overcame her ACL injury after playing lacrosse. One important takeaway from her recovery is the importance of patience and dedication to rehabilitation and being part of a group that helps your mental health. You can read more about her journey here.
5. Post-Surgery Plan
Before your surgery, it’s important to discuss your post-surgery rehab plan with your physical therapist. Understanding the roadmap for your recovery helps you stay proactive and motivated during the rehabilitation phase.
Things to plan for:
- Scheduling physical therapy: Start therapy as soon as your doctor recommends.
- Organizing home care: Make arrangements for support at home, as mobility will be limited in the early stages.
- Creating a daily routine: Consistency is key for recovery, so establish a schedule that prioritizes exercises, rest, and nutrition.
At Myokinetix, we specialize in customized recovery plans for athletes, ensuring a safe and effective return to sport. Take a look at our blog, Deciding on ACL Surgery: What You Need to Know for more detailed information on the decision-making process and post-surgery expectations.
If you also need help deciding what ACL Graft is the best for you, check out our video right here An Athlete’s COMPLETE Guide to ACL Grafts
Conclusion
Proper preparation before ACL surgery is vital to ensuring long-term success and a quicker return to sports. With a combination of prehab exercises, mental readiness, and a strong post-surgery plan, you can set yourself up for a smoother recovery.
At Myokinetix Physical Therapy + Performance, we specialize in helping athletes recover stronger and faster, particularly those recovering from ACL surgeries.
We’ve worked with numerous athletes, guiding them through customized recovery programs that significantly shorten their rehab time and help them get back to their sport with renewed strength and confidence. Whether you’re preparing for surgery or already in recovery, we’re committed to supporting your journey every step of the way, ensuring you’re ready to return to peak performance.
If you want to learn more about how to enhance your recovery, Book a call with us today to schedule a consultation with one of our expert therapists.