Hi pjdavis - I tore my ACL while skiing back in February 2005. It wasn't a complete tear, and I actually didn't know it was torn until my knee stability kept getting progressively worse (I was still trying to ski, run, and everything with it injured) and actually got an MRI about 1 1/2 years later that confirmed the tear. I was a very active exerciser at the time.
I had ACL reconstruction (they used my hamstring tendon) in November 2006 with an outfit that works a lot with sports injuries, and a lot with skiers...my doc, his assistant, my PT were all skiers...it was very cool in I felt that my recovery/rehab goals were well understood.
They gave me rehab exercises to start doing on the day after surgery...3 or 4 times per day. Most of these were to re-establish range of motion. It was very important to be able to straighten the leg.
After two weeks I started working with a PT 3x per week. My ROM was good enough that I was able to ride an exercise bike, and he started me with some strength exercises and more stretches. My PT recommended getting on an exercise bike every day if possible (I had one at home). The movement is very good for working the fluid out of the knee, improving ROM and strength.
For the first 10-12 weeks, it's very important that you don't injure the graft. I think it takes that long for the blood flow to it to get established. My PT did give me some pretty aggresive strength work during that time, but he was adamant that I don't try to run, use an elliptical, or do anything that had a "cutting" motion. The bike was the only cardio I could do. Coach Sean was my bestest friend.
After, the 12 weeks, I could exercise at will, as long the strength and flexibility were there. I think I stopped going to PT after the 12 weeks, but kept up with the rehab at home. I was very, very aggressive with my rehab.
It took a year before strength in the injured leg got back to something considered normal, but it still wasn't 100% of what the uninjured leg is. My first ski season back was a little sketchy. I could ski fine, but the injured leg would tire easily. This season was much better, and I feel like I'm back to just about there.
Don't worry about not staying in shape. I think I worked harder during rehab than I did before...it's different work, but it's still pretty hard.
Rob Shaul posted an interesting comment on
www.mtnathlete.com about how injuries sometimes present us with opportunities. I really believe this is true. As much as being injured sucked, I feel like I've ended up in a stronger place physically and mentally. I also got exposed to other forms of fitness in the process that I'm really loving.
Sorry if this is long winded...I hope it helps. Best wishes to you on a very speedy recovery.
