ACL Tears
What Is an ACL Tear?
An ACL tear is one of the most common injuries seen in sports medicine. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the major ligaments connecting the thighbone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia) inside the knee joint. During an ACL injury, the ligament may be torn, ruptured, or separated from the bone.
ACL tears, sprains, or ruptures most often occur in sports that require quick changes of direction, jumping, or pivoting, such as soccer, basketball, tennis, and skiing. Contact sports like football can also cause ACL injuries when the knee is hit with direct force. It is possible to injure the ACL during everyday activities as well—falling off a ladder or skipping a step on stairs can cause the ligament to tear. Since ligaments weaken with age, people over age 40 are more likely to experience ACL tears during normal activities.
Symptoms of an ACL injury include intense pain (typically felt most in the back or outside of the knee), swelling, difficulty moving the joint, and knee instability that feels as if it might give out during use. During an ACL tear or rupture, you may hear or feel a loud pop in the knee. While it may be possible to walk after the injury, the affected knee often feels unstable and unreliable.
Nonsurgical Treatments
Many ACL injuries can be effectively managed without surgery, particularly for less active individuals or those with partial tears. Our doctors offer a range of nonsurgical treatments to help relieve pain, restore stability, and protect long-term knee health.
Lifestyle Modifications
At the time of injury, the knee should immediately be treated with the RICE protocol: rest, ice, compression (with an elastic bandage), and elevation of the knee above the level of the heart. Limiting physical activities and avoiding movements that stress the knee are essential during the initial healing period.
Medications & Injections
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen or naproxen) may help reduce pain and swelling. However, patients should consult with their pharmacist before purchasing anti-inflammatories, as these medications may interact with other medications or be contraindicated for certain medical conditions.
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Physical therapy is essential for rehabilitating an injured ACL. Rehabilitation includes exercises that stretch and strengthen the knee and surrounding muscles, helping to restore stability and function. A structured physical therapy program can significantly improve outcomes, even without surgery.
Supportive & Assistive Devices
It may be necessary to immobilize the knee with a brace to provide stability and protection during healing. Crutches may also be needed to avoid placing full weight on the injured knee while it recovers.
Surgical Treatments
When nonsurgical options are no longer effective, surgery may offer lasting pain relief and improved function. The right surgical approach depends on your age, activity level, knee condition, and how far the injury has progressed.
ACL Reconstruction
For patients who wish to return to a high level of physical activity, ACL reconstruction surgery is often necessary. Because it is not possible to directly repair the torn ligament, a piece of tendon (typically from the patient's leg) is used to reconstruct the ACL. The new tendon graft is secured in place to restore knee stability. Several months of rehabilitation will be necessary following reconstructive surgery to regain full strength and function. This procedure offers the best outcomes for athletes and active individuals who want to return to demanding physical activities.