Michelle's ACL Injury

by Michelle
(Ohio)

Hi, I am a 22 year old female. I tore my ACL playing softball on August 3, 2008. I am getting my surgery around Thanksgiving and I am scared to death. I don't know which graft I should use and that is causing even more anxiety.

I have always been very active, and have been dancing (jazz, tap) since I was 4 years old. It's just a hobby, not a career, but it's a passion of mine. Not being able to dance again would really take a big piece of who I am. I worried about this affecting my ability to leap, jump, turn, etc. the way I used to before the injury.

I am also a first year middle school science teacher and am worried about having to take time off school. I really do not want to miss time with my students, but I guess I don't have a choice.

I guess if anyone has suggestions on which graft they would recommend, I would love to read them. I have researched online extensively. The patellar tendon seems to be a better choice as far as the healing process goes, but then I am worried about the knee pain. As a teacher, I am always kneeling down so I can be eye-level with my students, and I don't want the pain!

I am extremely scared and nervous about the whole thing. I still can't believe I tore my ACL. I thought there would be a lot more pain if I tore a ligament.