Lots of people love sports and being active, but sometimes injuries happen. One common ouch is a torn ACL, a ligament that helps your knee stay stable. Do you or someone you know had ACL surgery? It is important to know how it might affect your knee joints in the future, especially if you are prone to having arthritis.
Knowing this information can help you take steps to protect your knee health. You can also prevent long-term problems. Here’s more on this topic.
What is ACL Replacement Surgery?
The ACL is a key ligament in your knee that helps keep it stable. When it tears, doctors often suggest surgery to replace it.
During ACL surgery, a surgeon takes a tendon piece from another body part. The surgeon can also take a piece from a donor. Then, they use it to replace the torn ACL.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition that causes pain and swelling in the joints. There are many types of arthritis. The most common one is osteoarthritis. This condition happens when the cartilage in your joints wears over time.
How are ACL Surgery and Arthritis Linked?
Here are some ways ACL replacement surgery and arthritis are linked:
Increased Risk of Osteoarthritis
After ACL replacement surgery, your knee might be more likely to get osteoarthritis. This happens because of the surgery and the original injury. They can change how your knee bends and moves.
These changes can make your knee work a bit harder. It is like wearing out a favorite pair of shoes faster. Over time, the smooth cushion in your knee (cartilage) can wear down. Bones can rub together, which can be quite painful.
Joint Changes
After ACL surgery, the knee might not work exactly as it did. Let us say the surgery is successful. Minor changes in the knee’s movement can cause stress on the joint.
For example, you might walk or run differently because of the surgery. This can put extra pressure on certain parts of the knee.
Over time, this stress can lead to arthritis, causing pain and stiffness in the joint.
Importance of Rehabilitation
After ACL surgery, getting the right rehab is super important. Physical therapy helps build strong muscles around your knee. It improves how the knee moves. Strong muscles around your knee help it work better.
These rehab exercises help you move your knee normally again. This takes stress off the joint and keeps it healthy for longer.
How to Lower Your Risk of Arthritis After Surgery
Here is how you can take care of yourself after ACL replacement surgery:
Follow Your Doctor’s Advice
Make sure to follow all the advice your doctor gives you after surgery. This includes going to all your physical therapy sessions and doing any exercises they recommend at home.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Keeping a healthy weight reduces the stress on your knee joints. Extra weight can increase the risk of developing arthritis.
Stay Active Safely
Regular exercise keeps your muscles strong and your joints flexible. However, be sure to choose activities that are safe for your knees.
Swimming and cycling are good options because they are low-impact.
How Your Orthopedic Surgeon Can Help After ACL Surgery
Your orthopedic surgeon plays a key role in your recovery after ACL surgery. Here are some ways they can help you:
1. Regular Check-Ups
Your surgeon will schedule regular check-ups to monitor your progress. They will check how well your knee is healing and ensure no complications.
These visits are a great time to ask questions and discuss your concerns.
2. Personalized Advice
Everyone’s recovery is different. Your surgeon can give you personalized advice based on your specific situation.
They may also suggest the best exercises and activities for you while advising which ones to avoid. This helps protect your knee and reduces the risk of arthritis.
3. Adjusting Your Treatment Plan
If you experience any issues during your recovery, your surgeon can adjust your treatment plan.
This plan might include changing your physical therapy routine or prescribing medications to manage pain and inflammation.
4. Long-Term Monitoring
Even after you have recovered, it is important to have long-term monitoring of your knee.
Your orthopedic surgeon can continue to check your knee’s health. This way, they can catch any early signs of arthritis or other problems.
ACL Replacement Surgery in North Dakota
At The Bone & Joint Center, our board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons are experienced in ACL tear treatments and have successfully treated active individuals who want a quicker return to their sport.
In addition to cutting-edge surgery, we provide comprehensive, on-site physical therapy services for our patients. Our physicians keep close communication with our physical therapists to ensure you are achieving your goals.
To schedule a personalized consultation with one of our providers, call us today at (701) 946-7400/(866) 900-8650 or use our appointment request form.
Let us help you give your knees the comprehensive care they deserve. We look forward to serving you!
