The anterior cruciate ligament (A.C.L.) is one of the most important ligaments in the knee that connects the lower thigh muscles to the shin. Due to it being one of the most vital ligaments, it is also one of the most susceptible ligaments to an injury because of how much we use this ligament. Most A.C.L. injuries occur during sports or physical activity that involve changing direction, jumping and landing, and sudden stopping. If you feel as though you have injured or torn your A.C.L. and/or looking for physical therapy in Amityville NY, you should contact Park Physical Therapy to schedule an appointment or consultation.
Physical Therapy after an A.C.L. tear
Before starting any type of physical therapy exercise and training, your doctor should do an initial evaluation to determine the severity of the ACL tear. This initial testing allows for the therapist to set and create goals for their patient, and also create a tailored workout plan for them. The workout plan will include specific exercises to get back close to 100% as possible. Some therapy treatments for the A.C.L. include:
- Pain Control – there are a variety of different types of techniques. For example, icing, stretching, massages, or TENS (Transcutaneous electrical neuromuscular stimulation).
- Gait Training – Your therapist might help learn how to walk with assistive devices. Learning to walk with crutches is an essential part of the therapy because if not trained, it can lead to further injury or cause shoulder pain. This will then gradually lead to walking without crutches.
- Swelling Management – One of the best ways to help prevent swelling is by incorporating the R.I.C.E. method. This means to rest, ice, compress and elevate (above the heart).
- Strengthening Exercises – After surgery, your therapist must try to build the strength back in your quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles. After using those groups for long periods, they can lose their strength.
- Range of motion exercises – Swelling and pain from the A.C.L. tear and surgery can limit the range of motion of the knee. There are many exercises that can help increase the range of motion.
- Balance exercises – After using your non-injured leg more on crutches, you may experience balance issues and favor that leg. It is important to regain your balance through a wide array of exercises. For example, the wobble board is a board that you stand on while a round object is under it, and you use your core to balance and build up strength.
Contact Us – Physical Therapy in Amityville, NY
Park Physical therapy is always striving to provide our patients with the very best care and make sure that they are satisfied. Our experienced, well-trained staff is here to answer any questions or concerns that you may have during your physical therapy. Park Physical Therapy also offers more than just physical therapy. They offer services for the back, shoulder, and even T.M.J. If you are looking for physical therapy or feel as though you injured or tore your A.C.L., you should contact Park Physical Therapy or visit our website.