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I am 12 years old and in love with horses. Someday I'm going to own a horse farm. Right now I have two horses I take care of for someone else. They let me ride them anytime I want. The question I have is about my knee. I tore my ACL in gymnastics. I've been told to stay off it until they decide whether or not I should have surgery. Can I still ride during this time? And how will they know if I need surgery?
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You should really ask your doctor these two questions. And you don't necessarily have to go back for another appointment before discussing these important issues. You can call the physician's office and ask to speak to the doctor's nurse or assistant. Tell that person you would like to speak to the doctor and explain why. You will find most medical staff very willing to answer patient's questions and help guide you through the process.
The decision to have surgery or try conservative care first (usually medications and physical therapy) is based on many factors. Your age, weight, and presence of other health problems (like diabetes) are important.
The surgeon usually checks carefully for any sign of other injury to the knee. It's not uncommon for the force of an injury that is strong enough to tear the ACL to also be strong enough to damage the meniscus (knee cartilage) or the cartilage that lines the joint (referred to as chondral tissue). If that's the case, then surgery is considered sooner or later.
It is important to prevent additional injury to the knee. An unrepaired, damaged joint can eventually develop painful arthritis. And at an early age at the time of injury, that could happen long before you become the age of a grandmother.
So, whatever your physician advises you, we would strongly encourage you to follow carefully. A little time at this end protecting the joint (which may mean not riding for awhile) will pay off in the end. And being a horse lover myself, I know there's plenty to do for and with them everyday that doesn't involve riding. So you don't have to give up everything all at once or forever!
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*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic. |
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