Barrett S. Brown, MD

7401 Main St, Houston, TX 77030

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How Long Does ACL Reconstruction Recovery Take?

  • May 30, 2025
  • 407 Views

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a common surgery for people who have torn their ACL, especially athletes and active individuals. One of the most frequent questions patients have is: How long does recovery take? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of surgery, rehabilitation process, and individual healing.

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    What is Meant by ACL Reconstruction?

    The ACL is an important ligament in the knee that provides stability. When it tears, many people opt for ACL reconstruction to restore knee function. The surgery involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft, usually taken from the patient’s own hamstring, patellar tendon, or sometimes from a donor.

    ACL Recovery Timeline

    Recovery after ACL reconstruction is a gradual process. While everyone heals at their own pace, here’s a general timeline:

    • First Two Weeks
      Right after surgery, the focus is on reducing pain and swelling. You’ll likely use crutches and a knee brace to keep the joint stable. Physical therapy starts early—often within the first week—to help regain motion and prevent stiffness.
    • Weeks Three to Six
      During this phase, physical therapy becomes more active. You’ll work on bending and straightening your knee, improving strength, and walking without crutches. Light exercises help rebuild muscle without putting too much stress on the healing graft.
    • Weeks Seven to Twelve
      By now, most people can walk normally and start more challenging exercises. Therapists introduce balance drills, resistance training, and low-impact activities like cycling or swimming. The goal is to strengthen the muscles around the knee to support the new ligament.
    • Months Four to Six
      If recovery goes well, some people can begin light jogging or sport-specific drills around this time. However, cutting, pivoting, or high-impact movements are still restricted to avoid reinjury.
    • Months Seven to Twelve
      Most patients return to full sports or high-demand activities between eight and 12 months. By this stage, the graft has fully healed, and the knee should feel stable. However, some athletes may need additional time to regain confidence in their movements.

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    Factors That Affect ACL Recovery

    Here are some key factors that can influence your recovery from an ACL injury:

    • Type of Graft: Patellar tendon grafts may recover differently than hamstring grafts
    • Rehabilitation Commitment: Sticking to physical therapy speeds up recovery
    • Age and Health: Younger, healthier individuals often heal faster
    • Pre-Surgery Condition: Stronger muscles before surgery can help with recovery

    Tips for a Smooth Recovery

    1. Follow your physical therapist’s plan.
    2. Avoid overloading the knee.
    3. Eat well and stay hydrated.
    4. Rest when needed.

    What Our Patients Are Saying

    From appointment scheduling, receptionist, nurse, xray to Dr. Barrett Brown, all friendly and professional. Thank God that Dr. Brown wants to try physical therapy instead of jumping to surgery. I am well pleased!!
    Shelia Briggs

    Shelia Briggs

    Dr Brown was very professional and explained everything. He helped me with decisions of my care. Highly recommend him.
    Cathy Arroyo

    Cathy Arroyo

    I had the best experience with Doctor Brown and staff They are so Thorough and nice. He did amazing job on my shoulder I would recommend him And his staff any day thank you so much Doctor Brown.
    Karen Larocca

    Karen Larocca

    Dr. Barrett Brown is a very fine physician. He is also a friend. While he is a surgeon he said this about my horribly painful shoulder. First we will try an injection performed by our specialist using ultra sound. (It was painless.) If that does not relieve your pain we will do a cat scan to evaluate the rotator cuff.
    Lynn Russell

    Lynn Russell

    Highly recommend Dr Brown!!! He took time to answer all questions without rushing. I called his office in severe pain and received the in- office MRI and Dr appt the next day then Dr Brown explained my condition and I was booked for surgery with their on-site hospital days later. The surgery went great and I was treated great by all staff. They have valet service as well. Thanks Dr Brown and all staff!!!
    Kimberley Gomez

    Kimberley Gomez

    I had the best experience with Doctor Brown and staff They are so Thorough and nice. He did amazing job on my shoulder I would recommend him And his staff any day thank you so much Doctor Brown.
    Karen Larocca

    Karen Larocca

    I had a rotator cuff repair with Dr. Brown. Everyone at this hospital from the registration staff, pre-op nurse, surgery staff, recovery room nurse, the anesthesiologist, and of course, the surgeon, Dr. Brown were all professional and caring.
    Mary Isern

    Mary Isern

    I have, unfortunately, been a frequent visitor to the Fondren Orthopedic clinic as I cannot seem to stay on my feet 😅. My most recent experience with Dr. Brown has been nothing short of excellent. From the initial exam to surgery and then the follow up and discussion of how I am healing have been extremely thorough and communication has been a 10. I would definitely recommend.
    Jenna Hunter

    Jenna Hunter

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    The Bottom Line

    Healing from ACL reconstruction typically takes eight to 12 months before you’re back to sports. Your commitment to rehabilitation and patient mindset significantly influences how effectively and quickly you recover.

    If you’re considering ACL surgery or need expert care, Barrett S. Brown, M.D., a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, specializes in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and can guide you through the process. Visit our sports medicine specialist for personalized treatment and support.

    Call now at (346) 247-2531 to book your appointment!

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