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HomeReview of the conditionConsidering surgeryPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureRecovering from surgeryRehabilitationPhysical therapy Can rehabilitation be done at home?Duration of rehabilitation Costs Conclusion

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Surgery for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Deficiency in Children and Young Adults.

Edited By: Gregory A. Schmale, M.D.
Last updated Wednesday, January 12, 2005

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Rehabilitation

Physical therapy

Physical therapy is an essential element to success of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Routine twice-weekly visits to the therapist during the first four to eight weeks can be expected to maximize the patient's rehabilitation potential. Once to twice monthly visits for therapy guidance through months three to four are also helpful. If motion lags what is expected, more frequent visits may be necessary.

Can rehabilitation be done at home?

If the rehabilitation program's goals and instructions are understood by the patient, a home program without routine visits to a therapist may be quite successful at rehabilitating the ACL reconstructed knee.

Duration of rehabilitation

Knees having undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction require 9 months to a year of guided rehabilitation to maximize the stability and function of the knee. This also minimizes the risk of early failure of the reconstructed knee.

Costs

The surgeon and therapist should provide the information on the usual cost of the rehabilitation program. The program is quite cost effective, because it is based heavily on exercises which may be performed without the supervision of a therapist once the patient obtains the appropriate instruction.

Surgery for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Deficiency at the University of Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-987-3700 to make an appointment.

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