How Long After ACL Surgery Can You Drive? The Ultimate Guide for Athletes

*Getting Back on The Road After ACL Surgery: What You Need to Know

If you’re an athlete who has undergone ACL surgery, you’re probably wondering when you can get back behind the wheel. After all, driving is a crucial part of daily life, and you don’t want to stay cooped up at home for too long. So how long after ACL surgery can you drive? Here’s everything you need to know.

The Recovery Process After ACL Surgery

Recovering from ACL surgery is a long and challenging process for any athlete. The first few weeks are the toughest, as you’ll need to rest your leg and limit your activities. During this time, someone else will need to drive you around. However, as you start to heal, you’ll be able to get back on your feet and gradually increase your level of activity.

When Can You Safely Resume Driving After ACL Surgery?

The length of time it takes to resume driving after ACL surgery will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of surgery you had, how quickly you heal, and whether you drive an automatic or manual vehicle. In general, most athletes can resume driving after six weeks of recovery.

Tips for Safe Driving After ACL Surgery

When you do start driving again after ACL surgery, it’s important to take things slow and be cautious. Here are some tips to help you stay safe on the road:

• Take it easy: Start with short trips and gradually increase your driving time as you feel more comfortable.

• Choose the right vehicle: If you drive a manual car, you may need to switch to an automatic transmission to make driving easier on your healing leg.

• Adjust your seat: Make sure your seat is adjusted to a comfortable position that won’t put any unnecessary strain on your leg.

• Wear the right shoes: Choose comfortable shoes with good grip to ensure you have good control over the pedals.

• Take breaks: If you’re going on a long drive, make sure to take breaks to stretch your legs and avoid fatigue.

Returning to Athletic Activities After ACL Surgery

One of the most important things to remember after ACL surgery is to take things slow and listen to your body. Rushing back into athletic activities too quickly can put you at risk of reinjury. Most athletes can return to light training after three months, but it can take up to six months to resume full activities such as running and jumping.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – everything you need to know about driving after ACL surgery. Remember, the recovery process is a long one, and it’s important to take things slow and be patient. With time and proper care, you’ll be back behind the wheel and back on the field before you know it.