How do you know if you tear your ACL graft

[scrambledawg]

I hyperextended my knee yesterday stepping backward from a porch to grass (about 1/2" difference in height)...1 month post-op ACL reconstruction (hammy auto). It just 'gave' and went backwards (i.e. hyperextended)....It's sore today, but nothing terrible....Just a constant throb and really-low ache (1)....Just more swollen than it had been in some time.

Anyone have a similar experience during rehab. Thoughts?

[drmark]

You probably should see your doctor.

Tearing out a graft from common activities is pretty rare. You usually need a sports accident, but get it checked.

[altagirl]

Yeah, you tend to get that hyperextending feeling once in a while until your muscles are strong again - it's not that out of the ordinary, but freaks you out. I think most people do something during rehab - a weird step, slip, something - that makes you panic about having hurt the graft.

But you're not going to know for sure everything is alright until a professional looks at it so they can move your knee around and feel that everything is still good.

[Woodlandclown]

I would definitely get into see the dr! that would completely freak me out.

I had my surgery 6 weeks ago today and just starting weight bearing on friday. I definitely feel that my knee is a bit unstable and feels like it can hyperextend. I hope its because the quad muscle is so weak right now. sounds like it makes sense.

[MHSP #1497]

I had my surgery in February, and I still get that hyperextend thing. Just did it again on Sunday mowing the in-laws yard (they're in Chile for 2 months). Saw the Doctor this morning and he said everything is still "rock solid." He suggested a lot of cycling to build up muscle stamina.

Getting my brace next week to start some more hard-core training for next ski season. It's tough to be a Ski Patroller and have to sit the sidelines like a chump...


Josh
Mt. Hood Ski Patrol