ACL Reconstruction Recovery.?

I had my ACL reconstructed by Patellar Tendon in July of 2006. I retore it in January of 2007, and will have to have it reconstructed in May after graduation. I was supposed to run Cross Country for Baylor, but now it looks like I won't be able to. When do you think I'll be able to start training as hard as a college athlete does? Will it be in time for Track season of 2008?

I was told when I had mine done that it is easier to tear the other one if it is properly rehabbed. Something go wrong with your rehab?

They used your patellar tendon the first time, can't use it again. The hamstring tendon is not supposed to be as strong. If your doc doesn't already offer it you should ask about allograft (cadaver tissue). Recovery is a little quicker (still takes months) and is a strong choice.

But on your training question, I have to agree with Jeffrey. It is great to be dedicated and want to jump back into the athletics. But you have a lot of years left where you are going to want to be able to walk on that thing.

Below is a quote from a medical source that it takes 12-18 months to get back to pre-injury condition.

"...We found that over the course of three to four months after surgery the tendon regenerates or "grows back". Initially it seems to overgrow into a thick, large tendon that then remodels back to a more normal contour by 12-18 months postoperatively."

Have you considered the possibility that your hard training days are over? Think about it, you have already injured it twice and one of theses times surgery might not solve/repair the injury. I know you are young and you think your invincible/surgeries are a cure all but you are not invincible and surgeries cost you later in life.

Your body is talking to you, are you listening? Just food for thought.

GOOD LUCK!
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