I had ACL surgery a month ago. My leg looks like it's melted away. I'm doing a rehab program, but I'm pretty worried about how slow it's coming and how long it seems to take to do the exercises. It's still very painful. Is this normal?

Keep exercising, even if at a low level. Stay at it and don't be put off by the pain. Without use the muscles weaken and atrophy quickly. They can't contract and relax normally.

The most remarkable thing is how quickly recovery can happen. The muscles will respond to your exercise program. Patients say that looking back they are amazed by how quickly the muscles shut down after the injury and then again after surgery. They also comment on how quickly the muscles responded to therapy.

It is a long road. Here's some simple, but good advice:

  • Stay at it. Even a little exercise is good.
  • It will hurt so don't let that stop the rehab.
  • Remember it is a long rehab road. Keep looking at the big picture while taking baby steps.
  • Keep track of recovery and be amazed at how fast it moves.

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