Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction - Knee Braces For Support, Protection & Pain Relief

Have you ever injured your Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)?

1.) Surgical Grafts

When you go into for an ACL reconstruction surgery your physician will use a "graft" to replace the ligament. An autograft is most commonly used in these cases. An autograft is a graft that uses your own bodies materials to help secure the ruptured ligament. For example, it is possible to use your patellar tendon (tendon of the kneecap), or one of the hamstring tendons as the autograft for ACL reconstruction.

2.) ACL Surgery, Incision Techniques

An anterior cruciate ligament surgery is typically done by making small incisions in the knee area. From here, surgical instruments are inserted through these incisions (this is known as arthroscopic surgery). - However, a larger incision can also be used in what is known as open surgery. Typically these kinds of surgeries are performed by orthopedic surgeons.

Why would a surgeon decide to use arthrosopic surgery? Three easy answers are that in arthroscopic surgery it is:

• easy to see and work on the knee's internal structures.


• The incisions are smaller and patient's prefer smaller scars, and it can be performed under general anesthesia.


• Lastly, it may have fewer complications as compared to open surgery.

3.) Recovery Time

Your ACL can be surgically mended by your physician, but the knee will need to heal after such a procedure. Obviously, one of the best ways to help your knee heal is by incorporating rest into your daily routine. You will need to give your knee time. However, their are things you can do to help your knees more after such a surgery.

4.) Knee Braces For Support, Pain Reduction & Protection

One of the best things you can do to help support your knee before and after such a surgery is to use a well designed knee brace. An ACL type knee brace can help reduce movements that can further your knee injury. Many patient's will indicate that their pain will go down with the use a well designed support. Moreover, when they have a low profile, light weight, yet strong knee support on people will often say that their knee instability is virtually gone. - There are different kinds of knee braces, so you will need to speak to a brace professional with any questions.

In later articles we will explore more about ACL reconstruction surgeries and provide you with more information.

* Please be advised that this is health information. It is best to speak with your physician regarding your particular health situation.