Dr. Bharani Kumar Dayanandam, senior orthopaedic surgeon and trauma consultant at Chennai Orthopaedics talks about ACL reconstruction surgery and provides a few important tips for successful rehabilitation and quick recovery after the surgery.

The knee is a complex joint with multiple ligaments that are important for flexion and extension movements. Any damage to these ligaments can cause pain and inhibit pain-free movement. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one such ligament that is important for the stability of the knee. The ACL along with the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is crucial in facilitating the front and back motion of the knees. 

ACL tear can affect the stability of the knee and inhibit the range of motion provided by it. People who are very active and are involved in sports are at a higher risk of developing an ACL tear. “A lot of patients who visit me have torn their ACL as a result of a sports-related injury. However, an ACL injury can also occur as a result of trauma like falling, landing incorrectly after a jump, or repetitive stress to the knees,” says Dr. Bharani Kumar. The symptoms of an ACL injury include a popping sound in the knee, swelling within 12 hours, and instability of the knee.

Some patients can overcome the symptoms of an ACL tear with physiotherapy and medications. However, an injury to the ACL always increases the risk of further injury and instability. Therefore, ACL reconstruction surgery is a better option for younger people who wish to continue having an active lifestyle. “The main goal of ACL reconstruction surgery is to provide stability and regain a complete range of movement in the knees,” says Dr. Bharani Kumar.

There are many different techniques and methods that can be used during ACL reconstruction surgery. the method used is chosen depending on the type and severity of the ACL injury and the accompanying injuries if any. Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction is the preferred technique used by Dr. Bharani Kumar. “Being a minimally invasive technique, arthroscopic ACL reconstruction offers many advantages. It is less painful, with smaller wounds and faster recovery,” says Dr. Bharani Kumar.

Dr. Bharani Kumar is of the opinion that rehabilitation after the surgery is as important as ACL reconstruction surgery itself. The road back to recovery is not easy. Regular exercises, physiotherapy, medications to relieve the pain and swelling, etc are all vital parts of the recovery. Dr. Bharani Kumar offers some tips that help in recovery after ACL reconstruction surgery.

Follow all the instructions given by your doctor.

Listen to your body. Pain or swelling after exercise indicates over-exertion of the knee.

Take adequate rest. It will help the healing process.

Be patient. Complete recovery after ACL reconstruction might take anywhere between 6-9 months depending on the type of injury.

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