Bad Signs After ACL Surgery: When to Be Concerned and What to Do

Recovering from ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) surgery is a life-changing experience, helping patients regain mobility and return to daily life. However, not all post-surgery experiences are smooth sailing. Identifying the bad signs after ACL surgery is crucial to ensuring a safe and effective recovery. However, before moving on to bad signs, let’s first understand ACL surgery and its importance.

What is ACL Surgery, and Why Is It Important?

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is essential for knee stability. It connects the thigh bone to the shin bone and supports movements like pivoting and sudden stops. ACL injuries, which are common among athletes and active individuals, often cause pain, swelling, and instability, limiting mobility.

ACL surgery repairs or reconstructs the damaged ligament using a graft from the patient’s hamstring, patellar tendon, or a donor. The procedure restores knee function, prevents further joint damage, and enables a return to normal activities, including sports.

While ACL surgery is highly effective, proper post-surgery care is crucial for recovery. This includes recognizing warning signs of complications and seeking timely medical advice to ensure a successful outcome.

Why Monitoring Your Recovery Matters

ACL surgery is a significant procedure that requires proper post-operative care. While discomfort and swelling are normal in the initial weeks, some symptoms may indicate complications. Ignoring these can delay your recovery or lead to severe health issues.

read more on How to Prevent ACL Injuries 

8 Bad Signs After ACL Surgery You Shouldn’t Ignore

1. Excessive Swelling or Bruising

• What’s Normal: Moderate swelling is expected and usually reduces with rest, icing, and elevation.
• What’s Concerning: Persistent or worsening swelling accompanied by severe bruising could signal a blood clot or internal bleeding.
• What to Do: Notify your surgeon if swelling doesn’t subside or worsens over time.

2. Unbearable Pain

• What’s Normal: Some discomfort is expected, especially in the first two weeks.
• What’s Concerning: Pain that worsens or becomes unmanageable even with prescribed medication may indicate infection or improper healing.
• What to Do: Don’t dismiss severe pain—contact your doctor immediately.

3. Redness or Warmth Around the Incision

• What’s Normal: Mild redness is part of the healing process.
• What’s Concerning: Intensely red, swollen, or warm skin around the incision, especially if accompanied by discharge, may indicate an infection.
• What to Do: Keep the area clean and consult your doctor if you notice these symptoms.

4. Limited or Worsening Range of Motion

• What’s Normal: Gradual improvement in movement as you follow your physical therapy plan.
• What’s Concerning: Inability to bend or straighten your knee despite consistent physical therapy may point to scar tissue formation or joint stiffness.
• What to Do: Discuss any mobility concerns with your physical therapist or surgeon.

5. Unusual Noises in the Knee

• What’s Normal: Clicking or popping sounds can occasionally occur during recovery.
• What’s Concerning: Persistent or painful clicking may indicate improper alignment or mechanical issues in the joint.
• What to Do: Bring up any unusual knee noises during your follow-up visits.

6. Fever or Chills

• What’s Normal: A low-grade fever after surgery is rare but not unheard of.
• What’s Concerning: High fever, chills, and general malaise could signal an infection in the knee or elsewhere in your body.
• What to Do: Contact your healthcare provider if you experience fever above 101°F (38.5°C).

7. Blood Clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis)

• What’s Normal: Minor leg pain or discomfort from reduced mobility.
• What’s Concerning: Sharp pain, redness, or swelling in the calf could indicate a blood clot, which requires immediate attention.
• What to Do: Seek emergency care if you suspect a clot, as it can lead to life-threatening complications.

8. Instability or Giving Way of the Knee

• What’s Normal: The knee may feel weak initially but should become stable with therapy.
• What’s Concerning: A feeling that the knee is giving way or buckling could indicate incomplete graft healing or ligament damage.
• What to Do: Report these symptoms promptly to your surgeon for evaluation.

Preventing Complications: Your Recovery Checklist

• Follow Post-Surgery Instructions: Stick to your surgeon’s and physiotherapist’s guidelines.
• Maintain a Clean Incision Site: Keep the area dry and clean to avoid infections.
• Stay Active (But Not Too Much): Engage in light movements and avoid excessive strain.
• Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye out for the warning signs mentioned above.

When to Call Your Doctor

If you notice any of the symptoms described, it’s better to connect to your doctor on the side of caution. Immediate intervention can prevent further complications and ensure your recovery stays on track.

Contact your doctor if you experience:

• Worsening swelling or pain
• Persistent fever
• Signs of infection
• Instability in the knee

Consult Dr. Muthana Sartawi for Expert ACL Care

Recovering from ACL surgery requires vigilance and timely action. Recognizing bad signs after ACL surgery can be the difference between a smooth recovery and prolonged complications. If you’re experiencing any unusual symptoms, consult Dr. Muthana Sartawi for expert care.