Following the multiple ACL and other arthroscopic operations I have had since 1992, each time I underwent rehabilitation using standard (fitness-style) and isokinetic machines. In the hands of the masseurs and physios, my convalescence went well, and I was very satisfied with the end result.
30 years later, Dr. Echeverri agreed to operate on me for a total knee replacement despite my young age. It had been about 5 years since I’d been able to do anything without intense pain.
Before the operation, Dr. Echeverri asked me to do 2×9 sessions of “therapeutic strengthening” using controlled equipment. I complied. I can assure you that he was right about everything. In addition to doing intensive strength training, I was able to do it virtually pain-free.
On the evening of my operation, I was standing with walking sticks, and the next day I started to move around without them.
4 days after my operation and one day after my discharge from hospital, I began my rehabilitation sessions with Dr.E., 3 times a week, plus the exercises I did at home.
3 weeks after the operation, I bend my knee to 120 degrees, I have 95% active extension and 99% passive extension, I go up and down stairs without any problems. I’m starting to do squats and skipping. I was able to continue after two weeks.
Without this pre- and post-operative mechanical therapy, I wouldn’t be at this level today.
