"Water running helps me train like an athlete while I recover from ACL reconstruction."

Kathryne tore the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her knee while skiing in February. Two weeks later, she began aquatic therapy to decrease the inflammation, increase blood flow and increase her range of motion (ROM). Armed with many questions, she debated whether to even have the ACL repaired. “Do I really need the surgery? I hate to be inactive – will I be able to do a triathlons or ski this year?” Our response: “We’ll do everything we can to get you back to your pre-injury level of activity, and water therapy will be a vital component in your recovery. We’ll have you running in the water as soon as your incisions heal.”

Exercises in the water ultimately helped Kathryne accelerate her recovery before and after the surgery. We worked on cardiovascular training, strength, ROM and agility exercises. While severely limited with surgical precautions and symptoms on land, Kathryne moved with ease and at a high intensity in the water. Certain movement patterns and higher levels of intensity could be introduced 2-3 months earlier in the water than on land. Because of this, Kathryne was able to practice skills and maintain her fitness level while rehabbing her knee.

Kathryne is a determined woman who was able to have an aggressive rehab program and an excellent surgeon. Five months following the surgery, she is suiting up for her first triathlon of the year. Come winter, she will conquer the ski slopes: strong, agile and confident.