How long after medial collateral ligament reconstruction can one walk normally?
Sep 26, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, it usually takes 3 to 6 months to walk normally after medial collateral ligament (MCL) reconstruction. The exact timeline varies among individuals and is influenced by the surgical technique, effectiveness of postoperative rehabilitation, and personal recovery capacity. During daily rehabilitation, patients should consistently wear a brace until the doctor permits its removal, and avoid strenuous activities as well as excessive flexion and extension of the knee joint.
Generally, it takes about 3 to 6 months to walk normally after medial collateral ligament (MCL) reconstruction. The exact timeline varies depending on the surgical method, effectiveness of postoperative rehabilitation, and individual healing capacity. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If minimally invasive surgery is performed and postoperative rehabilitation is strictly followed according to medical advice, normal walking may be achieved in 3–4 months. For example, if joint range-of-motion exercises are gradually initiated within 1–2 weeks post-surgery under brace protection, and partial weight-bearing walking is attempted between 2–4 weeks, patients who recover smoothly may achieve near-normal gait without significant pain or instability.
However, if the surgery involves greater tissue trauma, or if postoperative rehabilitation training is delayed or inadequate, the recovery period may extend to 5–6 months. Such patients should progress gradually, initially using crutches or a walker to assist with walking and avoiding full weight-bearing too early, to prevent excessive stress on the reconstructed ligament that could impair healing. Only after joint stability and muscle strength have sufficiently improved should they transition to normal walking.
In daily rehabilitation, patients should continue wearing protective braces until permitted otherwise by their doctor, avoid vigorous activities and excessive flexion or extension of the knee joint, and strengthen surrounding muscles such as the quadriceps to enhance knee stability. Additionally, a diet rich in protein and calcium supports tissue repair and promotes faster recovery.
