Making a Speedy Recovery: Returning to the Game After Knee Surgery 

Suffering a knee injury can be a setback for athletes, but with the right mindset and a well-executed recovery plan, getting back on the field can happen sooner than expected.

This story highlights a community athlete who underwent knee surgery, diligently followed the rehabilitation process, and made a successful return to the game within a relatively short time frame. From the initial stages of bed rest to gradually regaining strength and agility, this athlete's story demonstrates the importance of determination, proper medical care, and consistent effort.

The Hits Keep Coming

Meet Evan Ochoa, a talented collegiate soccer player who was captain of the Lake Tahoe Community College soccer team. In 2019, his team achieved success by securing the most conference wins, and Evan played a pivotal role in leading his team to victory. However, as fate would have it, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, disrupting their season and forcing them to put a halt to their pursuit. Though games were canceled, training continued, and the team adapted to outdoor workouts during their training program at the Barton Center for Orthopedics & Wellness.

Amidst the chaos, Evan and the team faced another setback when the Caldor Fire broke out. Among the entire South Lake Tahoe community, they were forced to evacuate their home — leaving him emotionally drained. Just when he thought things couldn't get any worse, Evan suffered a devastating blow when he tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a preseason game, shattering his hopes of playing in the upcoming season. Despite his injury, Evan displayed unwavering dedication to his teammates. He attended every game, passionately supporting and encouraging his squad from the sidelines, even though he couldn't contribute on the field. His resilience and unwavering commitment to his team showcased his exceptional character and unwavering team spirit, inspiring his teammates to give their all in the face of adversity.

Through a coordinated network bridged by Barton Health athletic trainers and his coaches at LTCC, Evan was connected with Barton orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Jeff Orr. Assessment and MRI revealed surgery was necessary, which took place on October 7. Dr. Orr performed successful reconstructive surgery to correct his torn ACL and a torn meniscus. Evan’s mother was integral to his support during the initial stages of recovery, and he was required to maintain non-weight bearing for six weeks. During this time, regular checkups with his care team were conducted to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the recovery plan.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation:

Once the non-weight bearing period ended, the athlete began attending physical therapy sessions. The primary focus was on gentle exercises such as leg bending, stretches, and strength training, gradually increasing in intensity over time. Michelle Snyder, DPT and the rehabilitation team played a crucial role in guiding Evan’s rehabilitation process, ensuring that the exercises were challenging yet safe.

Building Strength and Endurance:

Within a month of consistent effort, Evan progressed to walking. By the end of December, just a few months after the surgery, Evan was already engaging in short periods of jogging and even participating in ladder drills. During the winter months, indoor training became a priority to maintain progress. In collaboration with his LTCC Soccer assistant coach Jack Larter, Evan received a personalized training program with Barton Performance coaches, which provided valuable guidance and motivation.

Commitment and Consistency:

By January, approximately three months into the recovery journey, Evan was engaged in various activities such as ladder drills, jogging, dribbling, and passing the ball. These exercises significantly contributed to strengthening the injured leg and improving overall fitness. Regular gym sessions and incorporating cycling into daily routines further accelerated the recovery process.

Gradual Return to the Game:

In March, Evan received a knee brace, which provided added stability during physical activities. With the doctor's approval, he gradually reintegrated into team practices, initially focusing on non-contact drills. The athlete's cautious approach paid off, as he was able to play with the team inside a controlled environment without any concerns.

Springing Back into Action:

As spring arrived, Evan took a brief break for a week or two before participating in the first game of the season on April 6. Remarkably, this date marked just shy of six months since the initial surgery. Evan has gone on to be recruited at Cal Poly Humboldt University, where he plays as a midfielder at the esteemed Division II level.

Evan’s commitment, perseverance, and adherence to the rehabilitation plan allowed for a successful return to the game, demonstrating the effectiveness of a well-structured recovery process.

Recovering from a knee injury and returning to sports can be a challenging journey, both physically and mentally. However, with a positive mindset, proper medical care, and a well-designed rehabilitation plan, athletes can make remarkable progress in a relatively short period. Evan’s story serves as an inspiration for all those who are determined to get back out there and pursue their passion for sports. Remember, with patience, dedication, and expert guidance, a full recovery is within reach.