ACL Reconstruction

by Brittany

Im just getting back from ACL reconstruction. I am wondering if cross-country would put me in risk for re-tearing it or if it would help build my muscles back up around my knee?


Answer by Dominique:


Hi Brittany,
Thank you for your question regarding your recent ACL reconstruction. The ACL (=anterior cruciate ligament) is a major ligament around the knee joint. It is important in stabilizing your knee.


The important benefit of an ACL reconstruction is that if it is successful it gives you back a normal knee and you should be able to eventually do everything you did before.

My understanding of an ACL reconstruction is that in the period after the surgery you should do plenty of stretching and strengthening exercises to make your ankles, lower and upper legs stronger.

Without knowing your physical fitness, how far you are in the healing process and without being your physician I can't exactly tell whether you should already do cross-country. If you and your physician decide you are able to run again, just make sure you build up very gradually and allow your legs to become stronger over time. Then cross-country is a great way to build up your muscles again. Just be careful. It's no use recovering from one injury and then being hit by others or not allowing your knee to fully recover from what is pretty significant surgery.


So take it easy, do lots of stretching and strengthening exercises and listen to your body!

Hope this helps.
Kind regards,
Dominique

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Running Injury Helpline.



Like this page:


Share this page:


Like this site:


[?] Subscribe To This Site

XML RSS
follow us in feedly
Add to My Yahoo!

Helpful
Resources

  • Beginner Running Tips

    Are you a beginning runner? Then this is your best starting point. Many tips and running programs on offer, dedicated to you.

  • Running for Weight Loss

    Aiming to lose a few pounds? Get into the Running for Weight Loss section for tips and advice.

  • Running Training

    The Running Training section of the site has got the most articles. It is constantly getting updated with new tips and information. A must-visit if you are serious about improving your running performance.

  • 5k Running Tips

    The 5k is a great distance to run and train for. The great thing is that you can do it quite often and see big improvements.

  • 10k Running Tips

    The 10k is a real challenge. You need to run fast for an uncomfortably long time! Check out this section if you are strong of mind and legs!

  • Marathon Running Tips

    The marathon is a massive challenge. Proper training is so important! Make sure to check out this section if you have got your mind set on the marathon!




What's New?

  1. Five Tips for Running the Mile

    Want to improve your mile time? Here are some tips for running the mile that should help make you faster.

    Read more

  2. What is The Best Way to Train for a Beginning Runner?

    I have been running for a little over a month. I seem to be in decent shape for a former smoker. I started with 2 miles per run, twice a week for the

    Read more

  3. Is Distance Running Bad For You?

    Hi, I'm Anne, a 45-year-old who has newly discovered my love for running. I started three months ago when I participated in a fun run during which

    Read more

  4. Beginner Running with Ankle Pain

    I am 48 years old and I started running a couple weeks ago. You know run, walk when needed type stuff. I have gone out about five times doing pretty

    Read more

  5. Can Only Run Three Consecutive Days

    I am a truck driver who works every Monday morning to Thursday evening on the road. I am either driving or sleeping on the road and my truck only

    Read more