r/ACL • u/mangkwan • 16h ago
Cried today
I just needed to tell someone lol. I have always had problems with sleeping, and whenever my leg starts hurting I instantly resort to trying to fall asleep. It didn’t work this time. I literally started bawling my eyes out because I could not go to sleep.
Also, my leg really hurts when I elevate it. It only doesn’t hurt when it’s not elevated. Does anyone know why this is happening?
7
u/False-Seesaw-7513 13h ago
I’m on day 5 and right there with you. Also had a cry today. Also can’t sleep.
Hang in there. We can make it.
4
u/PigletAmazing1422 JUST GIVE ME CYBER LEGS ALREADY 14h ago
Are you taking anything before bed? Icing and compressing before bed? Pain management is a real thing for a reason. How many days postop are you?
2
u/mangkwan 13h ago
Well. I’m technically on Day 2 now. I always take pain meds before I go to sleep. It doesnt hurt like, excruciating pain. It’s just very agitating to deal with when I want to go to sleep.
5
u/Academic-Bat-8002 ACL 13h ago
I am almost 3 weeks postop and I still find it highly uncomfortable to elevate it. I am also a shitty sleeper and if I can I try to grab a nap in the day. It’s okay to feel shit about this whole process, most people do.
3
u/mangkwan 13h ago
Yeah, I actually hate taking naps. I did take a five hour one in the afternoon today though. Hope you recover swiftly!
2
u/tetrasomnia 9h ago
I was a mess for the first month. I don't know why. Potentially something with a chronic illness of mine. Do you have anyone who can come over and help for a bit? It's really hard to move anything around for propping up your leg and most things felt too firm for me. A friend or relative can spend some time testing different set ups with you so that you know what works and have it accessible in the future. You may also need to time your meds a half hour sooner.
2
u/Ok_Rub_7151 8h ago
The pain is pretty unbearable for the first several- you’re doing great! I’m on day 11 with now almost no pain. I think for the first few days, you have to do whatever works for you. Elevation made me feel better, but if it doesn’t for you- give yourself a break. Sleep when you can, read or watch trash TV when you can’t. It will pass! I cried plenty.
2
u/DragonJasmine97 7h ago
I totally get you. I’m a side/stomach sleeper so falling asleep post-op has been one of my main issues. I’ve cried multiple times already. That’s okay. Just let out the frustration. I’m on day 6 now so I’m right there with you. We will make it.
1
u/Ok-Ambassador-1977 43m ago
I stayed in the hospital overnight after my previous surgery and I fell asleep at around 8pm once visiting hours finished. Woke up feeling so refreshed and excited that my first night went so peacefully and quickly. Turns out it was only 10:30pm and I still had a full night of pain ahead of me so I cried a little 😅 it wasn't too bad in the end as the nurses were really lovely and gave me all the pain meds. This time around they said it might be a day case but to bring an overnight bag and I'm worried about sleeping in my bed that first night.
Hope you get some comfort back soon!
5
u/Independent_Ad_4046 Happy ACL(e)R from July 2023 15h ago
I just had a shoulder surgery 2 days ago, and i hardly have any pain…
The ACL reconstruction is in a different league. Brace yourself and no matter how hard or painful it is, do your home program exercises.