ACL Reconstruction

Post-Operative Orders

  • Depending on the extensiveness of your surgery, the physician may require post- operatively an:
    • ACL brace
    • Immobilizer with an ace dressing.
  • Weight bearing with two crutches as tolerated, with the brace or immobilizer on.
  • During the first 48 hours, you should elevate your leg above your heart.
  • Keep brace locked at original setting. Do not change.
  • You may exercise by doing the following:
    • Ankle Pumps - Pumping your ankle up and down with brace on.
    • Straight Leg Raises - Lifting your entire leg straight up and down with the brace on.
    • Quad Sets - Tighten muscles on top of thigh by pushing knees down onto bed.
  • You may ice your knee/leg, 20 minutes on/20 minutes off. Do not apply ice directly to your skin.
  • Do not remove dressing, brace or immobilizer until your post-op visit. KEEP CLEAN AND DRY.
  • Take your pain medication as directed by the physician.
  • Call the office to schedule your post-op visit within 2 days of your surgery. The time frame of this appointment is very important!