The recovery process begins soon after surgery. Physical therapy begins five to seven days post surgery. The first goal is to achieve full extension of the knee (Grossfeld). In fact, the sooner the better as it has shown that motion of the knee helps reduce arthritis (Lamb). Doctor Warren reflects on how post surgery has changed throughout the years:
“In the 1970’s, an athlete who had undergone ACL surgery was required to wear a cast and not move their leg for six weeks. As a result, the ligament often remained loose and did not stabilize the knee. In addition, when the cast was removed, the knee joint was very weak and stiff. Today, however, we know that a knee that lacks motion has a greater propensity to get arthritis, so achieving motion
“In the 1970’s, an athlete who had undergone ACL surgery was required to wear a cast and not move their leg for six weeks. As a result, the ligament often remained loose and did not stabilize the knee. In addition, when the cast was removed, the knee joint was very weak and stiff. Today, however, we know that a knee that lacks motion has a greater propensity to get arthritis, so achieving motion