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ACL and Meniscus Surgery
I had ACL and meniscus surgery 6 months ago, followed by MUA 2 months later. My left knee still has limited extension at about 1°, while my right knee is at -6°. Even with consistent exercises, I’m not regaining full extension. After sitting for long periods, my knee bends more and I struggle to walk properly. When I try to run, it feels like a short-leg sensation. Is this normal, and how can I overcome it?
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Thank you for sharing your concern. At 6 months after ACL + meniscus surgery (and 2 months after MUA), having a persistent extension deficit of even 1–2° can cause the exact problems you are describing—difficulty walking after sitting, altered gait, and a “short-leg” sensation while running. This is not uncommon, but it is important to address early because even small extension losses can overload the knee and affect long-term outcomes. ⸻ Why this happens • Post-surgical arthrofibrosis (scar tissue) can limit extension. • Weakness of the quadriceps, especially the VMO, can worsen the extension lag. • Tight hamstrings or posterior capsule can also restrict full straightening. ⸻ What you should do now 1. Prioritize full extension above all Strength and running can wait, but extension must be restored. The goal is to match your other knee (around -6°). 2. Daily targeted stretching • Prone hangs (lying on your stomach with the leg hanging off the bed) – 10–15 min/day • Heel prop stretch – knee resting straight with a small weight above the thigh • Hamstring & calf stretching 3. Focused physiotherapy An experienced sports physiotherapist should work with you on: • Patellar mobilization • Soft tissue release • Passive extension techniques • Quadriceps activation (especially VMO) • Gait retraining 4. Check for any mechanical block If progress completely plateaus, we may need to rule out: • Residual scar tissue • Cyclops lesion • Meniscal or graft impingement A clinical exam and, if required, an MRI can help identify this. ⸻ Is another intervention needed? Most patients improve with focused physiotherapy once the right program is followed. But if extension is still not improving despite dedicated therapy: • Arthroscopic release (for cyclops or scar tissue) can help regain full motion. This is usually a short, minimally invasive procedure. ⸻ My advice You are not alone—this is a known issue after ACL reconstruction. But it’s important to correct it now, because even a few degrees of extension loss can affect long-term knee biomechanics. Let’s reassess your knee clinically and tailor a rehab plan. With the right approach, you should be able to regain near-normal extension and return to running safely. Feel free to share your reports or visit the clinic so we can guide you properly.
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You need more physiotherapy
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After ACL surgery You dnt need MUA you need proper rehabilitation Dnt know why MUA was done .. Meanwhile u should attend good rehabilitation program and still not improved then consult some good sports surgeon
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ACL surgery would cause stiffness if proper physiotherapy not done in time. Need consultation to evaluate the condition.
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Physiotherapy
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Do Some physiotherapy sesion, and consult with operating Surgeon
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Only exercise can improve it
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Kindly consult for a brief history details with your previous discharge summaries and xray. Further rehabilitation is important.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.