Torn ACL

[Taildragger]

For all of the pilots and SNA's out there:
I'm a MIDN 3/C in NROTC on full scholarship. About a month ago, I tore my right ACL in an intramural football game (we lost -- pretty crappy way to tear your ACL). I was wondering if any of you have torn your ACL or any other ligaments in your knee, and how you went about getting a waiver. I know it is a waiverable injury, I just hope that it won't create any complications in passing a flight physical. Any insight yall could give me would be great.

 

[ghost]

Sorry to hear about the injury. I know of a couple of people who went through the flight program after tearing their ACLs. You will have to get a waiver after the surgery. I think you have to show that you did not lose any flexability or strength afterwards. Just make sure you get a good surgeon and keep up with the physical therapy.

ghost

 

[Taildragger]

Yeah, from what I understand, they make you do a bunch of strength and flexibility tests.

 

[EODDave]

You will have to go to a NAVY Orthopedic doc and have them check you out after your rehab. They will make notes and give you a form to send to NAMI. Its not a big deal.

 

[erinbynight]

me too!

I tore my ACL...I'm not going pilot, but I am wondering how it will affect my physical performance. For those of you that have torn similar ligaments, what protocol do you use to maximize your physical fitness while minimizing deterioration of the knee joint? I tore mine about two years ago, went through the surgery and rehabilitation process, and i job a lot on the treadmill. I guess i want to know about supplements and various braces for the knee that you can run with.

 

[feddoc]

FNP,

A surgically repaired ACL is certainly waiverable and, as EODDave said, it is a relatively simple process. Although it is the FS who will send the waiver, not you.

Erinbynight,

"I tore my ACL...I am wondering how it will affect my physical performance." It depends on how badly it was torn (partial...complete.....or a strain) and how good your flexibility and strength are.

"For those of you that have torn similar ligaments, what protocol do you use to maximize your physical fitness while minimizing deterioration of the knee joint?"


I have had my lateral meniscus removed due to damage. Regarding the exercise protocol, you should go see your ortho doc. Any other advice, without an examination, could turn out to cause more harm than good. IF your doc releases you to train with weights, do so with caution and seek the advice of someone who is certified to provide that instruction. Two of the best agencies from which one can get certification are NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association) and ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine). Ask your potential trainer/gym if they are so certified.

"I tore mine about two years ago, went through the surgery and rehabilitation process, and i job a lot on the treadmill. I guess i want to know about supplements and various braces for the knee that you can run with."

Supplements will not do you much good. Was your knee surgically repaired? Braces to wear should only be done so after a thorough examination.

good luck on your recovery

 

[bunk22]

Tore my knee up in API back in 93. Had surgery (ACL partial tear) and was med-up in 6 months.

 

[snow85]

you can't always get a waiver for an acl. it depends on several factors. i had a great recruiter, and was lucky enough to get one; pm me and i'll help you out with it.