ACL Post-Op Readiness Checklist

Cold & Compression Therapy

Cold Therapy Machine / Cryo Cuff (Game Ready, Breg Polar Care, etc.) The most consistently recommended item. Circulates cold water and often provides compression. Many can be rented.

Backup Ice Supply Keep backup gel ice packs and 10–15 mini water bottles in the freezer as a rotating supply for your cold therapy machine.

Compression Stockings Essential for reducing DVT (blood clot) risk while your mobility is limited.

Rest & Elevation Setup

Leg Elevation Pillow Prop your knee at least 12 inches above heart level for the first 3–5 days to combat swelling.

Proper Sleep Positioning Sleep with knee raised but NOT bent. Always put the pillow under your foot/calf, never directly under the knee.

Recliner or Wedge Pillow A massive quality-of-life upgrade for sleeping and resting comfortably during week 1.

Mobility Aids

Crutches (Pre-fitted) Get these fitted before surgery day and practice walking with them ahead of time.

Prescribed Knee Brace Typically needed for 2–6 weeks. Wear it everywhere except during exercises and showering.

Knee Scooter & Grip Socks Scooters are a widely loved alternative to crutches for navigating the house. Don't forget non-slip socks to prevent falls.

Bathroom & Hygiene

Shower Stool & Removable Shower Head Essential for safe bathing without standing or slipping.

Toilet Seat Riser & Grab Bars Reduces the deep squat required for sitting and standing, protecting your graft.

Waterproofing & Quick Hygiene Large trash bags (or a waterproof leg cover) to keep incisions dry. Stock dry shampoo and body wipes for days when a shower isn't possible.

Clothing

Tear-Away or Snap Pants Pulling on regular pants without bending your knee is incredibly difficult. These are extremely useful, especially over a brace.

Slip-On Shoes No laces, no bending required.

Nutrition & GI Prep

High-Fiber Snacks Opioid pain meds commonly cause constipation. Stock pears, avocado, and oat bran. Aim for 25–30g of fiber per day.

Easy-Prep Protein & Supplements Chicken, eggs, Greek yogurt, and protein shakes for tissue repair. Prioritize Omega-3s, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Calcium.

Pre-Portioned Snacks Keep these next to your bed. Never take pain medication on an empty stomach.

Medications & Medical Supplies

Pain Management Prescribed pain meds, anti-inflammatories, and OTC backups (Tylenol/Ibuprofen) as directed by your surgeon.

GI Support Stool softener or mild laxative on standby. Bowel irregularity is extremely common post-op.

Wound Care Gauze and medical tape. (Always confirm specific wound care instructions with your surgeon).

Home Setup

Dedicated Recovery Zone Set up a command center. Water, phone charger, snacks, remote, and meds must be within arm's reach.

Clear the Path Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs, cords, and clutter. Set up single-floor living if possible to avoid stairs in week 1.

Hands-Free Transport A small backpack or fanny pack is essential to carry items around the house while your hands are occupied by crutches.

Entertainment & Mental Health

Digital Distractions Load your tablet/laptop with audiobooks, podcasts, and shows for the first 1–2 weeks of couch time.

Sleep & Mood Strategy Consider CBT approaches for sleep (natural sleep aids recovery better than medicated sleep). Keep a symptom journal—fear of re-injury and mood dips are real and documented.

Support System

Schedule Your Team Map out your support team's schedule before surgery. You will need help cooking, bathing, and changing in weeks 1–2.

Day 1 Logistics Confirm who is driving you home from the hospital and who is staying with you for the first 24–48 hours.

PT Evaluation Ensure your initial physical therapy evaluation is scheduled within the first 1–2 weeks post-op.

Red Flags to Watch For

If you experience any of the following symptoms post-surgery, contact your surgeon or seek medical attention immediately.

Acute pain in the back of the calf Potential early sign of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis/blood clot).

Fever or Excessive Swelling Especially if accompanied by worsening pain beyond the first few days of expected surgical pain.

Incision Complications Redness, unusual warmth, or any foul-smelling discharge from the incision sites.

Readiness Score