Chronic Knee Pain Resulting from a ACL Reconstruction two years I am currently eighteen years old.

[Ryan75]

I had ACL Reconstruction two years ago in my left knee, using an autograft from my Patella tendon. The subsequent years have been extremely painful, and the osteoarthritis that they found in my knee seems to be getting worse, however I am only eighteen years old. I am curious about what treatments there are since I did the therapy to strenghten the band near my hamstring and to strengthen the quarriceps. So my question is what therapy or what medication can help relieve my pain? NSAIDS do not seem to have any level of efficacy.

[Tuckamore]

Hello Ryan,

Welcome to the Pain Management Forum. I am sorry to hear that you are having pain in your knee. Reconstruction of an ACL avulsion can be difficult and very painful with a long and sometimes complicated recovery. Not all ACL reconstructive surgeries are as successful as planned.  

I too had a ACL avulsion and because I was over 25 and not a professional athlete the surgeon decided against reconstruction. Initially I was discouraged and certainly not delighted with his decision. I had years of pain and physical therapy rehab. It took a lot of time and work (years) but my knee eventually became fairly stable with bouts of pain coming only with over use or a misstep.  

You should not have to suffer with constant pain although my physican and surgeon only prescribed NSAID's. I suggest that you obtain a second opinion. Another set of eyes and ideas can't hurt and may indeed be helpful.

Please let us know how you are doing. We will look forward to your updates.

Take Care,
Tuck

[sandee1818]

You need to talk to your doctor about this and tell him/her that your still having alot of pain and see what options they can offer you. If they do not offer you any then see another doctor.
You should not be having this kind of pain at your age and there is something that can/will help you if you have the right doctor. I would not recommend taking ibuprofen on a regular basis though. There are more effective drugs that will not eat your stomach up.
Have you talked to your parents about this? Let them know whats going on so they can help.
Keep us updated and if you have any more questions please let us know.
I do hope I helped you some:)