ACL Injuries

[Zen]

Well MRI confirmed my DD re injured her knee again. 16 months post surgery, looked like she was getting back to her old self. One slide tackle from the rear took her down on her repaired knee. She heard the pop but the trainers thought maybe it was just scar tissue. Minor swelling and little to no pain. She was ready to play but out of caution we opted to have her surgeon take a look. He checked her out and thought it was a little loose and ordered the MRI. Telling her that she tore it again was the hardest thing ever.

That’s heartbreaking.... I’m so sorry to hear this. All the best to your daughter and family.

 

[Calisoccer11]

Hey Cali. I know it's really scary when you read into all that can happen with pars fractures, but my DD has recovered nicely after she fractured both L5 at 12 yrs and L4 at 14-15 ages. She's 17 now, playing DA and actively being looked at by all level of college coaches. So, yes, it can heal nicely if caught early and treated properly. DD had a great physical therapist and doctor that know a lot about this injury. Olympus Movement Performance, Vista, CA (AnnMarie Alf, DPT) has been amazing through all her injuries, but especially the pars fracture. If you are in Orange County or further north, the best PT that knows about this injury was Coury and Buehler. Dr Kruse has been our Dr. of choice and we also used Regenexx (Dr. Patel) for prp injections that really helped the L4 pars fracture and a later MCL tear (4 week recovery on grade two tear, stronger than before injury).

After two months, your DD should be doing PT at least 3 times a week. If she's still in pain, she needs to be braced up and given a little more time, but there are still exercises that can be done. I hope I helped. It's an emotionally draining injury, but she will be stronger following the injury if she does all her proper PT. The biggest scare is if the spine shifts, but keeping that core strong is paramount. And yes, on occasion, my DD will experience a little soreness around her lower back, but overall, the xrays and last MRI showed that the first pars healed completely and calcified nicely. We hope the same for the second as we caught it pretty quick. I wish your daughter the best and speediest recovery. You can DM me if you have more questions.

Thank you Copa. I was afraid that this may be a game ending injury -glad to hear your DD came out of it and is doing well. Really appreciate you taking the time to share --very helpful, thanks again.

 

[Dubs]

Well MRI confirmed my DD re injured her knee again. 16 months post surgery, looked like she was getting back to her old self. One slide tackle from the rear took her down on her repaired knee. She heard the pop but the trainers thought maybe it was just scar tissue. Minor swelling and little to no pain. She was ready to play but out of caution we opted to have her surgeon take a look. He checked her out and thought it was a little loose and ordered the MRI. Telling her that she tore it again was the hardest thing ever.

I'm so sorry. Wishing your DD all the best!

 

[CopaMundial]

Thank you Copa. I was afraid that this may be a game ending injury -glad to hear your DD came out of it and is doing well. Really appreciate you taking the time to share --very helpful, thanks again.

I just wanted to add, my DD isn't the only one I've known to come back fully. The first player family who helped us also had their DD recover go on to play at Oregon. And another team mate of my DD's had a pars fracture last year and is back playing and recruited to a D1. It is possible. Have hope, make sure she stays positive and has the right care. Good luck to her full recovery.

 

[CopaMundial]

Well MRI confirmed my DD re injured her knee again. 16 months post surgery, looked like she was getting back to her old self. One slide tackle from the rear took her down on her repaired knee. She heard the pop but the trainers thought maybe it was just scar tissue. Minor swelling and little to no pain. She was ready to play but out of caution we opted to have her surgeon take a look. He checked her out and thought it was a little loose and ordered the MRI. Telling her that she tore it again was the hardest thing ever.

I am so sorry to hear this. We've had to deliver terrible news from back to back injury and it's heartbreaking. I wish her a full and speedy recovery, but in the meantime, keep her spirits high. Injuries hurt kids mentally as well as physically. I'm sure you know that already. Positive thoughts your way.

 

[Calisoccer11]

I just wanted to add, my DD isn't the only one I've known to come back fully. The first player family who helped us also had their DD recover go on to play at Oregon. And another team mate of my DD's had a pars fracture last year and is back playing and recruited to a D1. It is possible. Have hope, make sure she stays positive and has the right care. Good luck to her full recovery.

So awesome to hear this!!

 

[oh canada]

Well MRI confirmed my DD re injured her knee again. 16 months post surgery, looked like she was getting back to her old self. One slide tackle from the rear took her down on her repaired knee. She heard the pop but the trainers thought maybe it was just scar tissue. Minor swelling and little to no pain. She was ready to play but out of caution we opted to have her surgeon take a look. He checked her out and thought it was a little loose and ordered the MRI. Telling her that she tore it again was the hardest thing ever.

thanks for sharing Mile High, though its never something we all want to hear. Please use this forum as a place to educate future info seekers or if you just need to vent. The posts in this thread are about the most "evergreen" content on the forum, so it's very valuable long term. How old is she? Turf or grass?

 

[Mile High Dad]

My DD is now U16, played 2 half seasons due to injury in DA and recently moved to play ECNL/HS ball. This latest injury occurred on grass, which may have caused her knee to grab the grass vs. slide on the turf. Will never know. We are now battling with recovering from another surgery and then who knows what her soccer future holds. Both injuries were due to very hard fouls and were not due to overtraining or over use. She is 5' 8" and about 130 lbs. and is very athletic. She is the type of forward that garners too much attention from the defense. From what we have seen through her career is she gets double and triple teamed and
endures a lot of excessive physical abuse. Before her first injury, she had a great half season in
DA and was invited to National Team tryouts (4 sessions before being injured). She came back from her injury with a vengeance. Trained super hard to get back to her former self. She was just starting to look like her old self and getting comfortable with her new team. Her surgeon had her in a brace and it almost seemed like the brace made her a target, even more. So now all of the normal soccer issues-Why isn't she starting, is she getting enough playing time etc. seem so petty. As much as We loved watching her play the game she loved and was so talented at, We are now faced with yet another year of rehab and returning to play or do we call it a career and move on. I'm sure others have faced this and unfortunately others out there will also have to face this grim reality. This forum is so unique and actually very vital to help all of us support our kids. Collectively our experiences, good and bad, can be so helpful and supportive to this community. Thank you to all.

 

[Fact]

My DD is now U16, played 2 half seasons due to injury in DA and recently moved to play ECNL/HS ball. This latest injury occurred on grass, which may have caused her knee to grab the grass vs. slide on the turf. Will never know. We are now battling with recovering from another surgery and then who knows what her soccer future holds. Both injuries were due to very hard fouls and were not due to overtraining or over use. She is 5' 8" and about 130 lbs. and is very athletic. She is the type of forward that garners too much attention from the defense. From what we have seen through her career is she gets double and triple teamed and
endures a lot of excessive physical abuse. Before her first injury, she had a great half season in
DA and was invited to National Team tryouts (4 sessions before being injured). She came back from her injury with a vengeance. Trained super hard to get back to her former self. She was just starting to look like her old self and getting comfortable with her new team. Her surgeon had her in a brace and it almost seemed like the brace made her a target, even more. So now all of the normal soccer issues-Why isn't she starting, is she getting enough playing time etc. seem so petty. As much as We loved watching her play the game she loved and was so talented at, We are now faced with yet another year of rehab and returning to play or do we call it a career and move on. I'm sure others have faced this and unfortunately others out there will also have to face this grim reality. This forum is so unique and actually very vital to help all of us support our kids. Collectively our experiences, good and bad, can be so helpful and supportive to this community. Thank you to all.

I am blanking on the name, but a few years back there was a girl that played at Surf. Her dream was to play at USC but suffered 2 ACL injuries during her high school years. I believe she still went to USC to play and her dad was on the forum. Maybe another poster can help put you in touch with them. Good luck and please let us know how it goes.

 

[Dubs]

My DD is now U16, played 2 half seasons due to injury in DA and recently moved to play ECNL/HS ball. This latest injury occurred on grass, which may have caused her knee to grab the grass vs. slide on the turf. Will never know. We are now battling with recovering from another surgery and then who knows what her soccer future holds. Both injuries were due to very hard fouls and were not due to overtraining or over use. She is 5' 8" and about 130 lbs. and is very athletic. She is the type of forward that garners too much attention from the defense. From what we have seen through her career is she gets double and triple teamed and
endures a lot of excessive physical abuse. Before her first injury, she had a great half season in
DA and was invited to National Team tryouts (4 sessions before being injured). She came back from her injury with a vengeance. Trained super hard to get back to her former self. She was just starting to look like her old self and getting comfortable with her new team. Her surgeon had her in a brace and it almost seemed like the brace made her a target, even more. So now all of the normal soccer issues-Why isn't she starting, is she getting enough playing time etc. seem so petty. As much as We loved watching her play the game she loved and was so talented at, We are now faced with yet another year of rehab and returning to play or do we call it a career and move on. I'm sure others have faced this and unfortunately others out there will also have to face this grim reality. This forum is so unique and actually very vital to help all of us support our kids. Collectively our experiences, good and bad, can be so helpful and supportive to this community. Thank you to all.

Thank you for the additional info. Question for you... Even though there was contact in both instances, do you attribute the second injury to just bad luck or do you think she came back too early...? I guess what I'm asking is, is there anything in your mind that might have help prevent it? I ask this only because my DD is on the comeback trail and has all the qualities you mention your DD has. I worry for her on her journey back and would love any advice you can give as you make your way through this horrible time. My heart aches for your DD. I am certain she will be back and amazing on the field if she so desires.

 

[Mile High Dad]

Dubs, I can honestly say it has to be bad luck. Since her return I've seen her get launched airborne by a defender taking her legs out from under her and seen her come out from a pile of 5 girls trying to head a ball off a corner and she headed it out before they dogpiled her. Her coach said it was the most uncalled/hard for foul she has seen and of course it's my DD on the end of it. I would say, cherish every moment she gets and don't sweat the little things. Playing time, missed opportunities, bad passes or missed goals all pale in comparison and are meaningless. The joy of seeing them return to the game they love is the ultimate joy. Enjoy all of her hard work and embrace and praise her every chance you get. Whether my DD returns is up to her surgeon, her Mom and her. Nothing can erase the memories of seeing them in pain but everytime she sets foot on the pitch and is able to walk off to play another day is to be cherished, it is a gift and only those that have gone through it can really understand it.

 

[Dubs]

Dubs, I can honestly say it has to be bad luck. Since her return I've seen her get launched airborne by a defender taking her legs out from under her and seen her come out from a pile of 5 girls trying to head a ball off a corner and she headed it out before they dogpiled her. Her coach said it was the most uncalled/hard for foul she has seen and of course it's my DD on the end of it. I would say, cherish every moment she gets and don't sweat the little things. Playing time, missed opportunities, bad passes or missed goals all pale in comparison and are meaningless. The joy of seeing them return to the game they love is the ultimate joy. Enjoy all of her hard work and embrace and praise her every chance you get. Whether my DD returns is up to her surgeon, her Mom and her. Nothing can erase the memories of seeing them in pain but everytime she sets foot on the pitch and is able to walk off to play another day is to be cherished, it is a gift and only those that have gone through it can really understand it.

Thank you for that! Perspective is what is needed here. With that bad luck, let there be an equal or greater amount of good luck to you, her and your family. Prayers up!

 

[oh canada]

Dubs, I can honestly say it has to be bad luck. Since her return I've seen her get launched airborne by a defender taking her legs out from under her and seen her come out from a pile of 5 girls trying to head a ball off a corner and she headed it out before they dogpiled her. Her coach said it was the most uncalled/hard for foul she has seen and of course it's my DD on the end of it. I would say, cherish every moment she gets and don't sweat the little things. Playing time, missed opportunities, bad passes or missed goals all pale in comparison and are meaningless. The joy of seeing them return to the game they love is the ultimate joy. Enjoy all of her hard work and embrace and praise her every chance you get. Whether my DD returns is up to her surgeon, her Mom and her. Nothing can erase the memories of seeing them in pain but everytime she sets foot on the pitch and is able to walk off to play another day is to be cherished, it is a gift and only those that have gone through it can really understand it.

Such thoughtful posts, Mile High, thank you. I wonder if the referees need to take a more proactive role in protecting players? Rarely do I see a ref who makes me say to myself, "ok, he/she is really calling this game tight on fouls." But, I often feel that they let A LOT go. Maybe US Soccer and ECNL need to make it part of their platform? We have quite a few refs on this board...thoughts from any of the whistle blowers?

 

[MMMM]

Such thoughtful posts, Mile High, thank you. I wonder if the referees need to take a more proactive role in protecting players? Rarely do I see a ref who makes me say to myself, "ok, he/she is really calling this game tight on fouls." But, I often feel that they let A LOT go. Maybe US Soccer and ECNL need to make it part of their platform? We have quite a few refs on this board...thoughts from any of the whistle blowers?

I agree with this. We took our DD to see a high-level D1 game out on the east coast last week — it was crazy how those teams were beating each other up. Looked more like rugby than soccer. The refs getting a little more aggressive on the calls might help the beautiful game stay beautiful.

 

[Simisoccerfan]

Dd was cleared today 6 weeks 8 days post acl and meniscus surgery! She passed the fitness test at the beginning of camp. Then all of the various hop tests. Has been participating in everything but no contact. Last week she passed all of the various strength/ lift tests. Her repaired leg muscles have returned and are now equal to her other leg. She just called me and surprised me with the clearance. She fully participated in practice including scrimmaging and she felt great. Brought tears to my eyes. It is unclear on whether she will still redshirt or start playing in a few weeks as she gets up to speed. I am ready to buy last minute plane tickets though.

 

[Mile High Dad]

Simi, that is great to hear. Enjoy seeing her out there! It takes on a whole new meaning.

 

[Justafan]

Dd was cleared today 6 weeks 8 days post acl and meniscus surgery! She passed the fitness test at the beginning of camp. Then all of the various hop tests. Has been participating in everything but no contact. Last week she passed all of the various strength/ lift tests. Her repaired leg muscles have returned and are now equal to her other leg. She just called me and surprised me with the clearance. She fully participated in practice including scrimmaging and she felt great. Brought tears to my eyes. It is unclear on whether she will still redshirt or start playing in a few weeks as she gets up to speed. I am ready to buy last minute plane tickets though.

So what do the doctors say about the ligament “vascularizing?” We’ve been told by two different surgeons that it’s all about re-vascularizing the ligament, and not necessarily how you actually feel (i.e. strength wise). Our doctor won’t clear her till 9 months post surgery.

 

[Simisoccerfan]

So what do the doctors say about the ligament “vascularizing?” We’ve been told by two different surgeons that it’s all about re-vascularizing the ligament, and not necessarily how you actually feel (i.e. strength wise). Our doctor won’t clear her till 9 months post surgery.

I believe everyone heals at a different rate. She used her patella tendon. I have been told by two doctors that if the hamstring or quad was used it takes several more months. Also one of the keys is regaining symmetry of the legs in size and strength. Believe I am nervous. But even if she waited to 12 months I still would be nervous. We are putting a lot of faith in her doctors, Athletic Trainer, strength and fitness coaches. She has worked hard to get to this point and has passed every test.

 

[Dubs]

I believe everyone heals at a different rate. She used her patella tendon. I have been told by two doctors that if the hamstring or quad was used it takes several more months. Also one of the keys is regaining symmetry of the legs in size and strength. Believe I am nervous. But even if she waited to 12 months I still would be nervous. We are putting a lot of faith in her doctors, Athletic Trainer, strength and fitness coaches. She has worked hard to get to this point and has passed every test.

I think my DD's injured leg is actually slightly bigger than the non-injured one now.. I don't know for certain, but it's tough to tell. One more month before she's cleared for plyometrics..fingers crossed. Also, how do you know if the ligament is "vascularized"?

 

[oh canada]

Dd was cleared today 6 weeks 8 days post acl and meniscus surgery! She passed the fitness test at the beginning of camp. Then all of the various hop tests. Has been participating in everything but no contact. Last week she passed all of the various strength/ lift tests. Her repaired leg muscles have returned and are now equal to her other leg. She just called me and surprised me with the clearance. She fully participated in practice including scrimmaging and she felt great. Brought tears to my eyes. It is unclear on whether she will still redshirt or start playing in a few weeks as she gets up to speed. I am ready to buy last minute plane tickets though.

Note, this is a typo by Simi. He means 6 months, 8 days. Not, 6 weeks. Obvious for all of us following his dd's progress and hoping for a quick recovery but want to ensure no newbies read only this post and think 6 weeks is anywhere near the realm of possibility. 6 months is a great result.

 

[Simisoccerfan]

I think my DD's injured leg is actually slightly bigger than the non-injured one now.. I don't know for certain, but it's tough to tell. One more month before she's cleared for plyometrics..fingers crossed. Also, how do you know if the ligament is "vascularized"?

I am not sure you can actually tell. Literature I have read seems to indicate that this process is completed by 16 to 20 weeks. I guess if the new ACL works properly is the only way to tell.