Hello,
This is my 1st post but I have been lurking in the background for a while.
I initially tore my ACL in 2003 and opted at that time not to have surgery. I know it was probably not the wisest decision, but the human body is a magnificent thing that is capable of amazing things, and I have functioned at a very high level, doing many different athletic activities and training in Shorin Ryu Karatedo,(would have preferred a Chinese martial art, but nothing of this sort is available where I live) without any discomfort or serious problems until........
About 1 month ago doing a routine I have done 100's of times, I landed wrong and POP, my knee gave out. I went to see a specialist in my area and once again they confirmed my ACL was torn and recommended surgery. How I was able to function at the level I have for 5 years even perplexed the doctors. Now, I am leaning towards the surgery but can not get it for a while, possibly 2-3 months.
As I do enjoy my karate training, it is not exactly what I am looking for, but learning something from a good teacher is better that learning nothing at all. I am an avid reader, and having recently discovered this web site, thankfully, I have purchased a few books and dvd's(The Essence of Taiji Qigong, and Taijiquan, Classical Yang Style) which I have thoroughly enjoyed and learned much from. I know there is no substitute for a good teacher, but as I said previously, there are none in my area in this Chinese style, at least not that I know of.
Now my main questions are, is there anything that can be recommended to me to train in now, before my surgery, and after as well. I have not gone back to my karate since something as basic as sitting in seiza is really uncomfortable on my knee. I am still training in light activities that do not involve a lot of torque on my knee and do train a little every day.
I know this is very long but I wanted to get my thoughts out, any replies would be appreciated.