ACL Surgery Post Op Week 5

Tomorrow is 5 weeks since surgery. I've managed to mostly walk with a normal gait with the brace. At PT, I asked if I could start leaving it off at some points so she let me during the whole therapy, which included the balance board, steps, balancing on one leg, treadmill and bike. It feels odd--kind of light and a like a rubber band is holding it--but could to do some work without it. At home, I only take off upstairs, where it is carpeted and not wooden floors. Up until Week 12, the hamstring graft is at it's most vulnerable and still needs protection.

I'm diligent on the exercises and see improvement. 128 degrees flex and full extension. It doesn't feel natural or easy to bend, but it's better.

I think I'm going to give myself approval to drive next week, at 6 weeks. I like my physical therapist but she seems uneasy giving the yes or no and would prefer the doctor does. However, I do not see him until 7 weeks and have a lot of activities coming up!

I'm trying to do a couple walks a day outside, but it was COLD today so both were only 1/2 mile.

I still ice it 3 times, at least, a day due to swelling after being up and around.

I've come to accept being home more and actually enjoy aspects of it, but will be happy to get out and about!