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From:	J (68.115.113.210)
Subject:	Dr Graham: Sports Post Severe Knee Injuries/Surgeries
Date:	June 28, 2012 at 10:01 pm PST

I write to ask for help with my Brother.

Dr Graham, I would appreciate your response whenever you can respond.

My Brother is a good athlete. He played basketball and baseball since age 4. He is now age 28.

At age 20 and 26, my Brother severely tore his ACL, once in each knee. He also tore his meniscus in both knees. He had two complex knee surgeries. The Doctor said his ACL was "shredded". He continues to play basketball in an amateur league.

I think it is a foolish risk for him to play contact sports. By continuing to play basketball after traumatic knee injuries, he is at risk of losing his ability to walk.

My brother likes to compete. He adores basketball. He does not want to stop playing basketball. He said, "I will play until my wheels fall off".

I think it would be wise for him to find a sport/activity that both has the lowest risk of re-injury and has the most potential for damaged knees to improve.

I write to ask for ideas of the best sports to play with damaged knees, specifically lifelong sports.

What are the best, lowest-risk sports to play after severe, traumatic knee injuries?

What exercises most help knees to recover and improve?

What sports have the greatest potential to help knees recover and continue to improve after traumatic injury?

I would like to learn what sports and activities have the lowest probability of knee re-injury, both competitive "team sports" and solo sports.

Does anybody here know of books or messages that could steer a person to rethink or change athletic activities after traumatic injuries?

I understand it will continue to be solely my Brother's decision.

I want to talk to him again about my concerns. This time, I want to present alternative athletic options for him to consider, options that will help his body recover, heal, and improve... not risk his happy future.

Thank you to all who respond!

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