PETALING JAYA: Men’s doubles shuttler Man Wei Chong’s decision not to undergo surgery for his knee injury may come as a surprise to some, but advances in sports medicine have made such treatment options increasingly common.
Sports medicine doctor Dr Hazwan Khair explained that injuries involving the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can now, in certain cases, recover without surgery, with medical studies showing positive results through proper rehabilitation.
In fact, athletes who avoid surgery could potentially return in four to six months compared to the usual nine to 12 months needed after undergoing an operation.
However, strict rehabilitation remains crucial throughout the recovery process.
“Previously, we understood that the ACL could not heal naturally and surgery was necessary,” said Dr Hazwan.
“But this was quite a major study and it showed that there is actually a percentage where the ACL can heal by itself.
“Based on this, they introduced what is known as the cross-bracing protocol and so far the outcomes have been favourable.
“That is why ACL injuries are different from person to person. It also depends on what type of graft is used or whether additional procedures are needed, but the most important thing is to look at the athlete’s movement requirements.
“Even if the athlete chooses not to undergo surgery, the rehabilitation process must be followed properly and according to the correct protocol.
Hazwan previously served with Selangor football club and was also involved in the rehabilitation process of footballer Faisal Halim after the winger was injured in an acid attack.
Wei Chong has now been advised to take a lengthy break after his knee injury worsened following Malaysia’s Thomas Cup campaign in Horsens, Denmark.
The 25-year-old had been playing through pain for the past three months after first suffering the injury in February.
As a result, Wei Chong and partner Tee Kai Wun will not only miss next week’s Malaysian Masters, but have also withdrawn from the Singapore Open (May 26-31) and Indonesian Open (June 2-7).
Added national doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky: “So far the doctors have said surgery is not necessary yet. We will see whether the injections can help.”
