u/lyyssylou

Hi, I’m officially 10 days post ACL reconstruction (hamstring graft) and x2 meniscus repair (bucket handle tear on both sides). I was able to have family visit and take care of me for a week post operation, but now I am on my own and am getting exhausted so easily.

I have time right now to take it slow but I need to return to my normal life soon: 21 y/o university student with 2 part time jobs.

I currently am on crutches, taking ibuprofen and acetaminophen PRN, and have the Game Ready cold machine until Friday. I’m required to have the straight leg brace on for at least 6 weeks total, which limits my mobility a lot :( I’m concerned when the new semester starts I won’t have the energy to get through the day and I want to reduce risk of fall and the stress.

I’m aware I won’t be able to return to full swing of things right away, but I’m looking for any accommodations for home, travel, school, work, other health related issues.

What have you gotten/asked for that makes life easier post operation?

Want to prepare mentally for my first surgery

I am getting surgery to repair my ACL and meniscus via hamstring graft in August. I’m very scared because I don’t know what to expect. Has anyone had a similar knee procedure? Or anyone who has an arthroscopic procedure?

I’m worried I’ll have complications after surgery that’ll prevent me from having proper healing. I’m also very worried about managing pain as I’ve been told I have a high pain tolerance and I use weed almost daily to manage pain, anxiety, depression. I’m scared to be in more pain than I already am and am scared I’ll be thrown in a depression post-op.

Info I’m looking for:

General or local anesthesia?

Any benzos before to help with anxiety?

How long were you in surgery?

Recovery: how long in the hospital?

Pain management after the surgery

How to get your brain to connect to your leg again?

Any firsthand info about preparing for surgery and the aftermath would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you 🤍