Improve Strength after ACL Tear Surgery with Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation

Pre-surgical rehab in Edmonton

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is a common and often debilitating injury that affects the knee joint, particularly in athletes. ACL injuries can result from sudden twists, jumps, or impacts, leading to instability and pain. Surgery is often required to restore normal knee function. Pre-surgical rehabilitation has been shown to significantly enhance post-operative strength and improve overall recovery. At Glenridding Physiotherapy, we focus on helping patients prepare their bodies for surgery, ensuring they are stronger and better equipped for a quicker, more effective recovery.

What Is an ACL Tear?

The ACL is one of the major ligaments in the knee, providing stability to the joint. It connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia). When the ACL is torn, typically due to sudden changes in direction or high-impact trauma, the knee becomes unstable. This instability often leads to difficulty in performing everyday activities or sports movements. ACL tears vary in severity, from partial tears to complete ruptures, and often require surgery to restore full function.

The Role of Pre-surgical rehab in Edmonton

Pre-surgical rehab, or pre-hab, focuses on preparing the body for surgery by improving muscle strength, joint mobility, and overall fitness. For those with an ACL tear, pre-hab offers numerous benefits that can make a significant difference in the recovery process.

Strengthening the Knee Muscles

One of the primary goals of pre-hab is to strengthen the muscles around the knee, particularly the quadriceps and hamstrings. These muscles play a crucial role in stabilizing the knee joint. Strengthening them before surgery helps reduce the effects of muscle atrophy caused by the injury and prepares the body for the stresses of surgery and rehabilitation.

Improved muscle strength also aids in restoring knee function post-surgery. By targeting the key muscle groups, pre-surgical rehab helps ensure that the muscles are strong enough to support the knee during the healing process, accelerating recovery and improving long-term outcomes.

Improving Range of Motion

A common issue following an ACL injury is a loss of knee range of motion due to swelling and muscle imbalances. Pre-hab focuses on restoring flexibility in the knee joint, which is essential for post-surgical rehabilitation. By addressing the range of motion before surgery, patients are less likely to experience stiffness after the procedure, resulting in smoother rehabilitation and faster progress in regaining function.

Reducing Pain and Swelling

Pre-surgical rehab also helps manage pain and inflammation associated with an ACL tear. Various techniques, such as ice application, manual therapy, and exercises, can help alleviate swelling and discomfort before surgery. Reducing swelling not only improves comfort but also prepares the knee joint for the invasive surgery, creating a better environment for healing and quicker recovery.

Minimizing Post-Surgical Complications

Pre-hab helps to minimize the risks of post-surgical complications, including knee instability and muscle weakness. Having a strong and stable knee prior to surgery can reduce the chances of encountering complications after surgery. Pre-surgical rehabilitation ensures that the body is in the best possible condition to handle the recovery demands, leading to a more efficient rehabilitation process.

Boosting Mental Readiness

A critical aspect of pre-surgical rehab is preparing the patient mentally for surgery and recovery. The pre-hab process helps set realistic expectations, easing anxiety and increasing motivation for post-operative rehabilitation. When patients feel confident in their physical readiness, they are more likely to have a positive mindset and actively participate in their recovery journey.

The Pain of ACL Tears

ACL tears typically cause severe pain at the moment of injury, often described as a sharp or stabbing pain. After the injury, swelling and bruising are common, and the knee may feel unstable, especially when trying to walk or bear weight on it. The pain usually subsides with rest, but the knee may continue to feel weak and unstable due to the loss of ligament function. In some cases, people may experience a “popping” sensation during the injury, which is characteristic of an ACL tear.

In the long term, pain and discomfort persist in many cases, especially if the injury is not treated effectively. The pain may worsen with certain movements, including pivoting or twisting motions, which can affect daily activities and athletic performance.

When to Consider Pre-surgical rehab in Edmonton

If you have been diagnosed with an ACL tear and are scheduled for surgery, starting pre-surgical rehab as soon as possible is crucial. By improving strength, flexibility, and overall knee function, you can help ensure a smoother recovery process and better post-surgical outcomes.

Direct Billing for Convenience

At Glenridding Physiotherapy, we aim to make your rehabilitation process as smooth as possible. We offer direct billing services for most major insurance providers, meaning you don’t have to worry about submitting claims yourself. This convenience allows you to focus on your recovery without the stress of paperwork.

Whether you’re undergoing pre-surgical rehab or post-surgical rehabilitation, our team is here to help you through every step of the recovery process. Speak with us today to learn more about how we can help you with direct billing.

Start Your Pre-surgical rehab in Edmonton Today

At Glenridding Physiotherapy, we offer personalized pre-surgical rehabilitation programs to help you prepare for ACL surgery. Our expert team will guide you through the process, addressing your specific needs and concerns to maximize your post-operative recovery.