Outcome
The most likely outcome of the rehabilitation process is that you will end up with a strong, stable knee that enables you to do much, if not all, of what you could do prior to your ACL injury. It is, however, possible for the surgeon to do a masterful job reconstructing a patient’s ACL, for the rehabilitation professional to brilliantly direct the physical therapy, and for the patient to fulfill his or her role perfectly, and still not get optimal results. It’s highly unlikely, but possible nevertheless. We don’t mention this so that you will expect complications. But it’s important to acknowledge that whenever we deal with the human body, some forces remain beyond our control. If you don’t achieve the desired outcome, it doesn’t mean that you or anyone else did something wrong or that there is reason to feel guilty.
Although there are no guarantees, you have every reason to expect that good things will happen. Research studies indicate that the chances are strong that you will be better off as a result of ACL surgery and rehabilitation. These studies also suggest that your attitude and commitment to the physical and mental aspects of rehabilitation will have a direct impact on the results. By taking an active role in your ACL rehabilitation, you can help bring about the outcome you desire.