Will I need rehabilitation after ACL surgery?

Patients will need a minimum of 2 weeks off work. You can return to driving if we have operated on your left knee and you drive an automatic. You need to be off strong pain killers and able to carry out an emergency stop at speed. You also need to be able to get out of the vehicle unassisted (in the event of an accident). So, you need to be confident about walking and maneuvering unaided. For some this will be at 2 weeks, for others it may be as much as 6 weeks. Again, discuss this at your follow up appointment and wound check at 2 weeks.

Patients who are more active such as labourers may need 2 to 3 months off work. We recommend return to competitive sport only after 8–12 months following your surgery. This is to reduce the risk of a recurrent injury, and it is recommended an experienced physiotherapist helps guide you through your rehabilitation.