ACL surgery is a major step in recovering from a knee injury. The period immediately following the procedure requires careful attention to protect the surgical site and prevent complications like infection. Successfully taking a shower involves preparation, protective measures, and safe movement to safeguard the healing tissues. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist.
Timing and Necessary Preparation
The initial shower after ACL reconstruction typically requires clearance from your surgical team, often permitted between 48 and 72 hours following the procedure. This timing depends on the surgeon’s dressing protocol and the need to keep the post-operative bandage completely dry. Until you have permission, rely on sponge baths or washcloths, carefully avoiding the knee and its dressing. Immersion in water, such as bathing or swimming, is not allowed for several weeks until the incisions are fully sealed.
Preparation before showering is important for preventing a slip or fall, which could severely compromise the repair. Set up a stable, water-resistant shower chair or bench inside the shower or tub to minimize standing on the operated leg. Non-slip mats must be placed both inside and immediately outside the shower area for secure footing. A handheld shower nozzle is recommended, as it allows you to direct water flow away from the knee while reaching the rest of your body.
Waterproofing the Incision Site
Protecting the incision from water is a primary concern, as moisture increases the risk of bacterial contamination and wound breakdown. Even with a water-resistant dressing, adding an extra layer of protection is often recommended for the first few weeks. One effective method uses household plastic wrap, such as cling film, to completely cover the knee and the dressing. Wrap the plastic multiple times around the entire lower leg, extending the barrier several inches above the highest incision point.
The most important step is creating a complete, watertight seal at the top and bottom edges of the plastic covering. Use medical adhesive tape, such as paper or surgical tape, to secure the plastic wrap tightly against the skin on the thigh and the calf. This seal must be firm enough to block water from running down and seeping underneath the plastic layer. Alternatively, use specialized waterproof limb covers or sleeves designed for post-surgical showering, which often have built-in elastic seals.
Safe Showering Techniques and Positioning
Safely entering and exiting the shower requires careful planning, especially when navigating a bathtub edge or a shower curb. Lead with your non-operated leg, using grab bars or a stable surface for support as you step into the enclosure. If using a tub, a transfer bench that extends over the side can simplify moving from a seated position outside to one inside. Once positioned on the shower chair, keep the operated leg outside the direct path of the water spray.
Positioning the protected leg slightly elevated or propped on a small, stable stool inside the shower helps keep it out of pooling water. Use the handheld shower nozzle to wash the rest of your body, directing the water flow away from the waterproofed knee. To avoid unnecessary movement or strain on the knee joint, use a long-handled brush or sponge to reach lower areas. Keep the shower brief, and use lukewarm water, as excessive heat promotes swelling in the surgical area.
Post-Shower Care and Incision Monitoring
Immediately upon finishing the shower, carefully dry the rest of your body before removing the incision’s protective covering. This minimizes the chance of water dripping onto the dressing when the plastic wrap is taken off. After removing the waterproof barrier, use a clean, soft towel to gently pat the skin around the dressing dry, taking care not to rub or disturb the incision sites. If the dressing feels damp, promptly replace it with a clean, dry one, following the specific wound care instructions given by your surgical team.
Regularly inspecting the surgical site should be done daily following the shower. Watch for specific signs that may indicate a developing infection or complication. These signs include increased redness or warmth extending beyond the incision edges, a noticeable increase in swelling, or thick, foul-smelling, or discolored drainage. If you observe any of these changes, or if you experience a fever or excessive bleeding, contact your surgeon’s office immediately for guidance.