Post-ACL Surgery: Struggling with Leg Raises and Rehab Tips - Rehabilitation

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After undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery, it is common for patients to experience challenges during the rehabilitation process, particularly with exercises like leg raises. Your concerns about pain during leg raises and the ability to perform other movements are valid and shared by many patients post-surgery. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you might be experiencing and some tips for your rehabilitation.


Understanding Post-ACL Surgery Pain and Limitations
1. Pain During Leg Raises: It is not unusual to experience pain when attempting to lift your leg after ACL surgery. The pain can be attributed to several factors:
- Swelling and Inflammation: Post-operative swelling can lead to discomfort and pain during movement. Ice therapy can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.

- Muscle Weakness: After surgery, the muscles around the knee, particularly the quadriceps, may be weak due to disuse. This weakness can make it difficult to perform leg raises without discomfort.

- Scar Tissue Formation: As you heal, scar tissue can develop around the surgical site, which may restrict movement and cause pain.

2. Achieving Range of Motion: You mentioned achieving a 70-degree bend in your knee, which is a positive sign. However, it’s essential to continue working on your range of motion gradually. The goal is to reach full extension and flexion over time, which can take several weeks to months.


Rehabilitation Tips
1. Gradual Progression: Focus on gradual progression in your rehabilitation exercises. If leg raises are painful, consider modifying the exercise:
- Isometric Exercises: Start with isometric exercises where you contract your quadriceps without moving your knee. This can help build strength without causing pain.

- Assisted Leg Raises: Use your hands to assist in lifting your leg, or try raising your leg while lying down with a slight bend in your knee to reduce strain.

2. Alternative Exercises: Since you can perform side and backward leg raises without pain, incorporate these into your routine. They can help strengthen your hip muscles, which are crucial for knee stability. Other exercises to consider include:
- Heel Slides: While lying down, slide your heel towards your buttocks to promote knee flexion.

- Straight Leg Raises: Lying flat, keep one leg bent and the other straight. Raise the straight leg slowly while keeping the knee locked.

- Wall Slides: Stand with your back against a wall and slide down into a squat position, holding for a few seconds before returning to standing.

3. Physical Therapy: If you haven’t already, consider working with a physical therapist. They can provide personalized guidance and adjust your rehabilitation program based on your progress and pain levels.

4. Pain Management: Use ice packs after exercises to manage swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain medications, as recommended by your doctor, can also help.

5. Listen to Your Body: It’s crucial to listen to your body during rehabilitation. If an exercise causes significant pain, stop and consult your healthcare provider. Pushing through pain can lead to setbacks.


Conclusion
Rehabilitation after ACL surgery is a gradual process that requires patience and persistence. It’s normal to experience pain and limitations initially, but with consistent effort and the right approach, you can improve your strength and range of motion. Always consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist before making changes to your rehabilitation program. They can provide the best advice tailored to your specific situation and help ensure a safe recovery. Remember, every patient’s recovery journey is unique, and it’s essential to focus on your progress rather than comparing yourself to others.