Tearing or injuring your ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) can be a frustrating and painful experience, often sidelining athletes and anyone who enjoys staying active.
An ACL injury can happen to anyone, however, regardless of activity level, and it often develops from sudden stops, sharp turns, or excessive force on your knee.
Recovery from an ACL injury can take time, but with the right steps, you can support healing and return to your favorite activities stronger than ever.
At OasisMD Lifestyle Healthcare in San Diego, Temecula, and Encinitas, California, our board-certified orthopedic surgeon David Chao, MD, and our team specialize in treating ACL injuries using a combination of techniques, including:
Keep reading for three expert tips to help support your healing process after an ACL injury.
One of the most important steps in recovering from an ACL injury is participating in a well-structured physical therapy program.
Physical therapy is designed to restore strength and flexibility in your knee and surrounding muscles, which is key for regaining your full range of motion and preventing future injuries.
Immediately after an ACL injury or surgery, the muscles around your knee begin to weaken from inactivity. Without proper rehab, this weakness can continue, making you more likely to re-injure your joint.
A personalized physical therapy program from the team at OasisMD Lifestyle Healthcare helps you target these muscle groups, gradually increasing your strength while supporting the healing process.
Regenerative medicine has gained popularity as a way to speed up your healing after injuries, including ACL tears.
Treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and stem cell therapy can help boost your body’s natural ability to repair damaged tissues, potentially shortening recovery time and improving outcomes.
By adding regenerative medicine to your recovery plan, you may experience faster healing, reduced pain, and better long-term outcomes.
At OasisMD Lifestyle Healthcare, we offer both PRP and stem cell therapies to support patients recovering from ACL injuries, giving you an additional tool to help your knee heal.
Once you’re back on your feet, maintaining an active lifestyle is key to keeping your knees healthy.
However, after an ACL injury, it’s important to modify your exercise routine to prevent re-injury. Keep in mind it usually takes at least six months to fully recover!
Focus on strengthening exercises and make sure you’re using proper techniques during workouts. Building strength in your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes helps stabilize the knee joint, reducing the risk of further injuries.
Incorporating exercises like leg presses, hamstring curls, and balance drills improves muscle strength and joint stability.
It's important to focus on your form and technique during physical activity, however, as improper form while running, jumping, or performing high-impact movements can place unnecessary strain on your knees.
Working with a trainer or physical therapist to refine your technique can reduce your risk of injury. Talk to your OasisMD Lifestyle Healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
If you’re still experiencing chronic knee pain or mobility issues after an ACL injury, it’s important to consult a specialist, like Dr. David Chao.
At OasisMD Lifestyle Healthcare, we offer personalized treatment plans that include options like minimally invasive surgery, regenerative medicine, and long-term rehabilitation to help you get back to full strength.
Personalized ACL treatment options for chronic knee pain may include:
By seeking the right care and following a comprehensive treatment plan, you can support long-term recovery and reduce your risk of future knee problems.
Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified providers at OasisMD Lifestyle Healthcare in Southern California to explore your options for healing and recovery after an ACL injury.
