ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injuries normally occur during sports that require quick and sudden movements in different directions like football, gymnastics and basketball. When there has been significant damage to the ligament that connects your femur to your tibia, ACL surgery is needed. After ACL reconstruction surgery stabilizes your knee joint, to help speed the healing process, try physical therapy. If you are looking for a physical therapist in Essex after any kind of surgery or injury, discover the professionals at Comprehensive Spine and Sports Center.
Why Use Physical Therapy After ACL Surgery?
Going for physical therapy after ACL surgery is the best way speed your recovery. Painkillers provide a quick fix, but physical therapy provides lasting benefits in the long run. Some of the benefits for physical therapy after ACL surgery include:
- Reduction in the swelling of the reconstructed joint
- Restoring your range of motion (ROM)
- Helping you regain your strength faster
- Improving your mobility
Phases of Physical Therapy After ACL Surgery
Phase 1: This phase is meant to protect the knee for proper healing. You will likely need to use crutches as you begin to work on regaining your range of motion of the joint.
Phase 2: Now is the time to stop using crutches and begin to try to walk normally. The swelling should be under control and you will be able to contract your quadriceps.
Phase 3: The goal here is to build strength in your leg. You may even be able to move from walking to light jogging.
Phase 4: In the last phase you will be able to move from slow jogging to running and are well on your way to getting back normal.
Physical Therapist in Essex: Comprehensive Spine and Sports Center
Getting the right treatment after surgery is important. At Comprehensive Spine and Sports Center Dr. Cohen and his staff develop unique treatment plans for each of our patients. We also offer many therapies in addition to physical therapy. Contact us today to learn more about:
- Aquatic therapy
- Non- surgical spinal decompression
- Chiropractic care
- Dry needling
