SummerBreeze, I'm right there with you. I have the full length velcro brace on my left leg as I type. Torn ACL. I had my surgery a week ago yesterday. It will be at least six months before I can play soccer again.
Both fortunately and unfortunately for me, I know what I'm going through and will be going through. I tore the ACL in my right knee a little less than 2 years ago, so I've been through this all before. Let me tell you the second time is no easier than the first.
You are welcome to ask me any questions you may have, and I'll try to answer them as well as possible.
The recovery period is typically at least 6 months. The doctor told me the first time that there was a small chance that my knee would never feel well enough to ever play soccer again, and the same is true this time around. I was out of soccer for 6 months..."lucky" me.
In the next couple weeks, you can be sure of one thing...a lot of pain and uncomfortability. There are few things in this world, if any, that I hate more than this brace. It sucks. The first couple weeks of therapy, which should start in 10-14 days, probably, will be spent getting your range of motion back. This, of course, involves a lot of pain and a great way to make it through is to take pride in the incremental increases in range of motion.
After that, you'll spend the rest of therapy increasing your strength in the muscles surrounding the knee. You will be amazed at how much atrophy has occured on your injured leg. I was anyway. So...more pain, basically.
Things you can do to help: do your homework. When the doctor or therapist tells you to do something at home, do it. This will help speed the recovery process.
Also, be careful. Don't try to do too much. While at the same time pushing yourself ever so slowly, don't try to push too much. You'll quickly learn what is "good" pain and what is "bad" pain with regards to your recovery.
The last thing that comes to mind is in line with
Chundles advice. Find something to do. For me, the first time was spent watching my soccer team, going to every game, and being a part of the team. It was what helped me through. This time, though, that would drive me crazy. So, I plan on spending more time doing things outside of soccer and investing in new interests. Just find something you enjoy.
Lastly, you'll find that the question you'll be asked most is "How's the knee?" but the more important question is "How are
you doing?" It can be very tough emotionally.
If you have more questions, feel free to ask here, PM me, or email me.
