I am trying to decide whether to have an operation on my knee. I tore my anterior cruciate ligament in a snow-skiing accident. My concern is that my insurance will pay for the surgery, but for not more than two physical therapy visits after surgery. What would you advise?

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of post-operative physical therapy after anterior cruciate ligament knee surgery. Physical therapy helps control swelling, reduce pain and restore the range of motion and strength of the knee. A well-trained surgeon who is capable of performing this technical surgery is half of the equation for a successful result. The other half of the equation is a well-trained and motivating physical therapist. One, without the other, often leads to poor results. Two post-operative visits are inadequate for the majority of patients who undergo this surgery. The important guidance by the physical therapist cannot be delivered to the patient in two visits. I would advise that you contact your insurance carrier to have them reconsider the post-operative limit of two visits for a surgery of this magnitude. Do not proceed with surgery if adequate therapy is not available.