The Benefits of Seeing a Physical Therapist After ACL Reconstruction

An anterior cruciate ligament or ACL reconstruction is a major surgery. Studies show that many people have this operation each year. After the surgery, you will experience weakness and joint stiffness. A physical therapist can help you recover your function and strength. Here are the benefits you can get from seeing a physical therapist after your ACL reconstruction.

It improves coordination, range of motion, and balance

After the ACL reconstruction, the joints will be stiff. This will limit the patient’s coordination, range of motion, and balance. Physical therapy can exercise and stretch the affected area. This can improve the patient’s movement and balance. Regular sessions can help the patient go back to regular activities.

It reduces swelling and pain

Any surgery will result in swelling and pain. A physical therapist can help reduce the intensity of these symptoms. The patient can then recover from ACL reconstruction with more comfort. Stretches can improve the range of motion by reducing these symptoms. Massage and electrical stimulation can also help.

It prevents re-injury

Anyone who has ACL reconstruction is at risk of re-injury. Through physical therapy, patients can improve their coordination and balance. The therapist may ask what caused the injury. Recognizing and avoiding it may prevent the area from being damaged again.

It helps restrengthen the knee area

Weakness is a common result of ACL reconstruction. A physical therapist can help strengthen the muscles that support the joint. Regaining one’s knee strength is important in going back to normal daily activities. Regular sessions can improve the patient’s flexibility and strength.

Strengthening the muscles around the knee can make it stable again. The physical therapist can make the exercises more difficult. This can help maximize the patient’s ability to move. By the end of the sessions, the strength of both knees must be equal.

It strengthens the hips

Research shows that weak hips can make one vulnerable to ACL injury. After the ACL reconstruction, the therapy will provide exercises that will strengthen the core and hip muscles. This will help maintain the patient’s balance and stability. It can also help the patient move around without injury.

It helps bring back the ability to play sports

Research shows that people who play contact sports often have ACL reconstruction. The constant swiveling movements and impacts can tear the ACL. A physical therapist can help prevent damage to the area again. A rehabilitation program can bring back the patient’s normal intensity and activity level while protecting the knee area. Devices and exercises can improve performance during the game.

It helps the body return to normal activities

It will take time before the body returns to performing normal activities. The sessions will involve exercises that will provide a slow transition to normalcy. The exercises will also protect the knee from future injury. Teaching the patient how to use assistive devices, such as a knee brace, is part of the physical therapy.

An ACL reconstruction can help you regain normalcy in your daily activities

Going through ACL reconstruction can be a long and difficult process. It will need your patience and dedication. With the help of your physical therapist, you can get back to your normal activities with a stronger knee. This can even make you better at your chosen type of contact sport.

Get more information about Orange County Physical Therapy OCPT in Newport Beach at https://ocptclinic.com.

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