If you’re an avid hiker, the thought of being sidelined by ACL surgery can be daunting. But don’t despair – with a little preparation, you can hit the trails again in no time. In this blog post, we’ll explore what you need to know about hiking after ACL surgery, from when you can start to what kind of gear you’ll need. We’ll also share some tips to make your hikes easier and more enjoyable. So, let’s get started!
Hiking After ACL Surgery: What You Need to Know
When can you start hiking again after surgery?
You can start hiking after ACL surgery as soon as your doctor gives you the okay. This is usually around 6 weeks post-op.
What kind of hiking can you do after surgery?
The intensity and type of hiking you can do will depend on how your knee is healing and how much pain you’re in. Start with short, easy hikes on flat terrain and gradually build up to longer, more difficult hikes.
How can you make hiking easier after surgery?
There are a few things you can do to make hiking after ACL surgery easier:
- Use trekking poles: Trekking poles take some of the weight off your legs and help you keep your balance.
- Take it slow—Don’t try to push yourself too hard too soon. Listen to your body and take breaks when you need to.
- Choose the right trails: avoid trails that are too steep or have a lot of loose rocks.
Getting started – what you need to do before you start hiking
Talk to your doctor
It’s important to talk to your doctor before you start hiking after ACL surgery. You need to make sure that your body is healed enough and that you’re not putting yourself at risk of further injury. Your doctor will be able to give you specific advice based on your individual situation.
Get the right gear
Hiking can be tough on your knees, even if you don’t have a previous injury. It’s important to get the right gear to protect your knees and help prevent further injury. Knee braces or straps can be helpful in stabilizing the knee joint and providing support. Trekking poles can also be a big help, taking some of the strain off of your knees with each step.
Choose the right trails
Not all trails are created equal when it comes to hiking after ACL surgery. It’s important to choose trails that are relatively flat and not too rocky or uneven. If possible, stick to trails that are well-maintained and have a smooth, packed surface.
Tips for making hiking after ACL surgery easier
Take it slow
One of the most important things to keep in mind when hiking after ACL surgery is to take it slow. Your body is still healing and needs time to adjust to the new normal. Start with shorter hikes and gradually increase the distance as you feel more comfortable.
Use trekking poles
Trekking poles can be a big help when hiking after ACL surgery. They provide extra support and can help you keep your balance. If you’re not used to using trekking poles, start with shorter hikes and practice using them before tackling a longer trail.
Listen to your body
It’s important to listen to your body when hiking after ACL surgery. If you start to feel pain or discomfort, take a break or turn back around. It’s also a good idea to bring along a friend or family member in case you need any help along the way.
Conclusion
After reading this blog post, you should now have a good understanding of what to expect when hiking after ACL surgery. You know that it is possible to start hiking relatively soon after surgery, but that you need to take it slow and listen to your body. You also know that using trekking poles can be a big help. So get out there and enjoy the trails!
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Arthur Lewis is a hardcore hiker, traveler, and adventure seeker. He is a blogger and writer for “Hiking Mystery,” and he lives in New York City with his pet dog, Chipi.
He is very fond of the outdoors and has visited many countries, including Iceland, Portugal, Brazil, and Costa Rica. He also loves to explore nature by means of hiking, cycling, and kayaking. He is an expert on travel, and he helps other people find the best way to travel by providing information about their options.