Postoperative after-treatment of the cruciate ligament replacement
In case of the postoperative after-treatment of patients with replacement plastics of the cruciate ligament initially the knee is immobilised for the first few days by an immobilisation splint. Physiotherapeutic measures (cooling therapy, lymphdrainage, patellar mobilisation) and the mobilisation by underarm crutches under a partial pressure of approx. 20kg begin immediately after the surgery.The rehabilitation continues early functionally with an orthosis (brace) which is reduced for the first four weeks to a 90 degree bending as well as accompanying intensive ambulant physiotherapy (joint mobilisation, quadriceps activation, continuation of the lymph drainage) under avoidance of stretching ther ischiocrural muscles (tendon extaction point).
Subsequently the active muscular stabilisation of the knee joint is achieved so that approx. 4 weeks later the bending restriction of the orthoses is removed. Generally, underarm crutches cease to be necessary then and a full weight bearing is possible without any problems. From the sixth week onwards a systematic strengthening of the hamsting muscles begins. By means of Neuro-Tens-machines (electric stimulation therapy) the build-up of the muscles is supported electrophysiologically.
After a further 6 weeks it is possible to do without the orthosis. However, in the case of more intense sports activities or stress they will continue to be necessary.
Sports such as swimming and cycling can generally be done after 3 months, while contact and stop-and-go sports normally should not be resumed before 6 to 9 months. The above-mentioned measures and the corresponding time data are only guidelines. In individual cases it can be necessary to deviate from these time frames, depending on responses to each phase of the post-operative care. Please do not hesitate to contact the SPORTHOMEDIC team if you have any questions.
