How to Properly Prepare for ACL Surgery
The ACL, or the anterior cruciate ligament, is one of the most commonly injured major knee ligaments or tendons that can cause excruciating pain. If you have suffered from injuries or pain in your ACL, you most likely have a relationship with an orthopedic surgeon in Altamonte Springs. Many people that experience tears in their ACL can be treated with a simple arthroscopic surgery. This surgery uses a small camera and small surgical tools that minimize the incision necessary to repair your ACL. Although this surgery is one of the least invasive options, there are still a few things you can do to prepare yourself.
Ask Questions
Before you go into any surgery, you should always meet with the doctor and surgeon to ask questions about what to expect. Ask them about the details of the process, and be sure that you have the information to put your mind at ease. Sometimes anxiety surrounding surgery can be caused by a lack of understanding the surgery itself. Anytime you are curious about what to expect, pick up the phone and talk to your doctor.
Prioritize Your Health
Before you go into surgery, you want to be sure that you are strong and prepared for the procedure. By taking care of your health, you will go into the surgery stronger. This will help prepare you for a speedy recovery, and it will also put your body in the best possible shape for the best outcome. Eat healthy and avoid bad habits in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Also, be sure to follow all of your surgeon's instructions to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
Practice Using Crutches
After you have ACL surgery, you will likely be off your affected leg for the duration of the recovery. To avoid having difficulties with mobility after the surgery, get your crutches in advance. Once you have the crutches, practice walking with them so that you can be comfortable before you'll need them. This way, you won't suffer from any falls or accidents once you do require them for mobility.
Arrange a Ride
After surgery, you will not be able to drive. Your surgeon will alert you to your mental status after the surgery, as this will depend on the anesthesia needed for the procedure and other pain-related medications for recovery. You should always be sure to have a ride home from the procedure already arranged.
Relax
One of the best things to do before any surgery, no matter how complex, is take some time to relax. Anxiety can make a surgery more difficult on both the patient and the families, so take some time to unwind and alleviate any stress before the surgery.
By taking these steps, you can prepare for your ACL surgery properly and be educated on everything to expect with the pre- and post-surgery process. Understanding what your orthopedic surgeon in Altamonte Springs will be doing will help prepare you for the recovery process. If you are looking for a quality orthopedic specialist to provide medical care for your knee surgery, contact us to hear about all of our specialties today.