If you tear your ACL, you very likely will undergo surgery for that injury at some point. Orthopedic surgeons usually perform that procedure as an outpatient surgery. Unfortunately for you, the recovery and process for returning to sports after ACL injury takes much longer.

Generally ACL reconstructions have good outcomes, with about two-thirds of athletes returning to the same level of play as before the injury by 12 months. Why does it take so long?

In this video, I explain what you can expect in the early days and weeks after surgery. Why is working with a physical therapist so important? What does the return-to-sports process involve, and how can you do it as quickly and safely as possible?

Also read:
ACL injuries: Surgery for kids
ACL injuries: The injury and its significance

PT working on athlete with an ACL injury

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