In this video, orthopedic sports medicine surgeon Dr. Alexander Weber outlines what patients should expect one year after undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery.
The core takeaways include:
- Recovery Timeline: At the one-year mark, patients are typically fully recovered, have completed their formal physical therapy, and have returned to their regular sports and physical activities.
- The "New Normal": Dr. Weber highlights that while the knee should feel stable and strong, it may still feel slightly different compared to the uninjured knee. Patients often experience minor stiffness or weather-related aches, which is completely normal.
- Long-Term Success: He emphasizes that maintaining leg strength through ongoing exercise is crucial for protecting the graft and ensuring long-term joint health.
