Interior of my knee showing the space where my ACL should be (the PCL is held back)
Amazingly, after 8 weeks I think I may be ready to end the “ACL Reconstruction” series of posts! At 7 weeks post-op I performed a strength test on both knees. The operated knee tested at 100% of the non-operated knee! Thus, I was able to start running a tenth of mile at a time working up to a 6mph speed and a 1.5 mile distance. I am now commuting to the studio by bike on a regular basis wearing a 15 to 20 lb. backpack. Last weekend I went on a 16 mile NCR trail ride and felt awesome. The brace is now mainly reserved for athletic activity involving lateral movement or cutting. I am thrilled!
I see Dr. Cosgarea this week and can’t wait to share my progress. During my years working in sports medicine I helped dozens of athletes recover from similar surgeries. Few progressed as fast as I have. Granted, I will not have to return to intense on field activity or undergo the grueling “hop test” two months from now. 4 months was the earliest I ever saw an athlete return to full activity, but they often paid for it with complications such as tendonitis or a re-tear of the ligament. I will keep these hard-earned lessons in mind as I become more adventurous.
The same shot showing my brilliant new ACL made from folded pieces of my hamstring tendon!
Thanks to Dr. Cosgarea’s excellent surgical skill and great support from my physical therapist I was able to successfully apply the INLINE Art of Exercise to my unique situation. I created a highly positive outcome by:
1.) Maintaining good body alignment, flexibility, and functional strength throughout the entire 4 years the ACL was torn.
2.) Keeping a balanced leg muscle structure, including hamstring to quad strength ratio.
3.) Combining traditional strength training with Pilates, Yoga, and dance techniques, and avoiding high impact exercise.
4.) Engaging in a 4 week growth oriented training phase for my legs before surgery (I was actually intensely sore on the surgery day)
5.) Starting range of motion and muscle activation exercises immediately after the surgery
6.) Using ice and massage to remove swelling and reduce scar tissue adhesions daily
Of course I could not have done it without the wonderful support of my wife, family, friends, fellow trainers, and clients. Thank you for your caring and patience. I look forward to many years of enjoying life to the fullest with you!
The post Brand New World at 8 Weeks Post-Op ACL appeared first on INLINE Fitness.
