How to prepare for ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery
Before you have ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery, your doctor will talk to you about the things you can do to prepare.
This might include advice on:
- exercises to strengthen your muscles and improve your movement – you'll need to do these before and after to help with your recovery
- stopping smoking
- having a healthy diet
- managing your weight
It's important to stay healthy while you're waiting to have ACL surgery. This will help with your recovery.
Pre-admission clinic
You might be asked to go to a pre-admission clinic a few weeks before the operation. This is to make sure you're well enough for the operation to go ahead.
It might involve having some tests, such as a blood test and checking your blood pressure.
You may also meet the healthcare team involved in your care so you can learn more about the operation and recovery afterwards, and ask any questions you might have.
Prepare for recovering at home
It's a good idea to prepare for when you get home after the operation.
You might want to think about:
- asking for any help you might need at home with day-to-day activities
- making sure things you use often are easy to reach
- keeping the floors in your home clear to make it easier to get around on crutches
- removing things you could trip on in your home, such as loose rugs and electrical cables
- stocking your freezer with cooked meals
- arranging transport, as you'll be unable to drive for several weeks after the operation
- speaking to your employer and making a plan for returning to work if you need to
Read more advice about what to do before having an operation (surgery)