Richard Haynes PTA/CPT - 7/27/2009

Question
My 17 year old daughter had acl surgery in Feb, and now has been released to play sports(she is a soccer player) She was given a brace as part of her physical therapy but is it necessary for her to wear a brace when she is playing soccer? I know other players who have had the same surgery do not wear a brace-I am confused about what is best for my daughter

Answer
Margaret,

Everyone may respond a little differently after the surgery.
The brace is being worn for the protection of the ligament itself.

I'm sure once the brace can come off and without jeopardizing the surgery then the treating surgeon and PT will have the brace removed.

I have heard these braces being worn 6-8 months.
Your best bet will be to talk to the treating PT and surgeon for their  reasoning behind the brace to get a full detailed explanation.

Sincerely
Richard Haynes
Punta Gorda, Florida