ACL reconstructive surgery and all that comes with it

Page 7: Making Progress

ACL Recovery: Day 25

Thursday July 3rd, 2008

Breakthough! I was able to do 10 step ups today and another 10 side step ups. The bike is very easy now. I ride it for 10 minutes to warm up at physical therapy, but I easily do 20 minutes at home. I am getting deeper on my squats and while sitting on a rolling office chair, I pulled myself, with my legs, down the hall about 40 feet and back again on a carpeted floor. That was quite a hamstring workout. I balanced on one leg and while balancing, played catch with the physical therapist. I really feel like I made progress today! My flexion measured at 140 degrees and I know a lot of it had to do with the adhesion breaking loose.

ACL Recovery: Day 29

Monday July 7th, 2008

My physical therapist is back again today. I tried to work really hard today. I did an extra set of everything. I pulled myself up and back down the hall again, twice. I actually worked up a pretty good sweat.

I stopped wearing my knee brace this morning because I feel strong enough to go without it. I still brought it with me to work, but didn't need to wear it at all. The doctor said that he wanted me to wear it a couple weeks after my follow up visit and I did, but I don't feel like I need it anymore. Of course, I am always cautious of my knee and my surroundings, so that I don't slip or twist it.

ACL Recovery: Day 31

Wednesday July 9th, 2008

One month, to the day, after ACL surgery. During my flexion excercises today, I was able to feel my heal touch my butt. I am almost able to do a complete 90° squat, holding on to something of course. My strength still isn't back, but my flexion is. I have another appointment with the doctor on July 16th, so hopefully I'll start working on some strength training.