Expert Orthopedic Care for ACL Injuries – Diagnosis & Treatment

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a crucial ligament in the knee that helps maintain stability and movement. ACL injuries are common among athletes and active individuals, often occurring due to sudden stops, pivoting movements, or direct impact to the knee. A torn ACL can cause pain, swelling, instability, and loss of function, significantly affecting mobility and performance.

An orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee injuries plays a vital role in diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating ACL injuries. Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment options range from non-surgical therapies to ACL reconstruction surgery. Early intervention ensures the best possible outcome, allowing patients to return to sports and daily activities with confidence.

This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery process for ACL injuries, and how an orthopedic surgeon can provide expert care.

Understanding ACL Injuries – Causes, Symptoms & Risk Factors

What Is an ACL Injury?

The ACL is one of the four major ligaments in the knee that provides stability by preventing excessive forward movement of the tibia (shin bone) and controlling rotational movements. An ACL injury can range from a minor sprain to a complete tear, often requiring medical intervention.

ACL injuries are commonly classified into three grades:

Grade 1 (Mild Sprain) – The ligament is slightly stretched but remains intact.
Grade 2 (Partial Tear) – The ligament is partially torn, causing instability.
Grade 3 (Complete Tear) – The ligament is completely torn and requires surgery.

Common Causes of ACL Injuries

ACL injuries typically occur due to sudden movements and high-impact activities, including:

Sudden stops or changes in direction – Common in sports like soccer, basketball, and football.
Jumping and landing incorrectly – High-impact landings can strain or tear the ACL.
Direct impact to the knee – A collision or tackle can force the ligament to tear.
Overextension of the knee joint – Hyperextension increases the risk of ACL damage.
Weak supporting muscles – Poor quadriceps and hamstring strength contribute to instability.

Symptoms of an ACL Injury

An ACL injury can cause immediate pain and functional limitations, with symptoms including:

A popping sound at the time of injury
Severe knee pain and swelling
Instability or a “giving way” sensation in the knee
Reduced range of motion and stiffness
Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the injured leg

If you experience these symptoms, it is crucial to consult an orthopedic surgeon immediately to prevent further damage.

When to See an Orthopedic Surgeon for an ACL Injury

While mild ACL sprains may heal with rest and therapy, a partial or complete tear requires specialized orthopedic care. See an orthopedic surgeon if:

You experience persistent pain and swelling despite rest.
Your knee feels unstable during movement.
You are unable to fully extend or bend your knee.
You plan to return to high-impact sports.
You suspect a complete ACL tear.

Delaying treatment can lead to further joint damage, chronic instability, and early-onset arthritis.

Treatment Options for ACL Injuries – Non-Surgical & Surgical Approaches

Non-Surgical Treatment for ACL Injuries

Rest & Activity Modification – Avoiding activities that strain the knee.
Physical Therapy & Strength Training – Strengthening surrounding muscles to compensate for ligament damage.
Bracing & Knee Supports – Stabilizing the knee during movement.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs) – Reducing pain and swelling.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – Enhancing tissue healing through regenerative medicine.

Non-surgical treatment is effective for mild sprains and individuals with a low activity level.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

ACL surgery is recommended if:

The ligament is completely torn (Grade 3 injury).
The knee remains unstable despite therapy.
You have additional injuries (meniscus tears, cartilage damage).
You want to return to competitive sports.

ACL Reconstruction Surgery

Orthopedic surgeons perform ACL reconstruction surgery using minimally invasive techniques:

Graft Selection – Replacing the torn ligament with a tendon graft from the patient (autograft) or a donor (allograft).
Arthroscopic Surgery – Using small incisions and a camera for precise ligament placement.
Fixation Techniques – Securing the new ligament with screws or sutures.

The procedure restores knee stability, allowing patients to return to sports and activities with proper rehabilitation.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After ACL Surgery

General Recovery Timeline

First 2 Weeks – Pain management, swelling reduction, and initial mobility exercises.
Weeks 3-6 – Improved knee flexibility and strengthening exercises.
Months 3-6 – Advanced rehab with strength training and stability drills.
Months 6-12 – Gradual return to sports with a structured training plan.

Tips for a Successful Recovery

Follow a structured physical therapy program.
Maintain a healthy diet to support healing.
Use knee braces for protection during rehabilitation.
Gradually increase activity intensity.

Returning to sports too soon can increase the risk of re-injury, so a gradual and monitored recovery is essential.

FAQs About Orthopedic Care for ACL Injuries

1. Can a torn ACL heal without surgery?

A partial tear may heal with rehab, but a complete tear typically requires surgery for full stability.

2. How long does it take to recover from ACL surgery?

Full recovery takes 6 to 12 months, depending on rehabilitation and activity level.

3. Is ACL surgery painful?

Post-surgery pain is manageable with medication, therapy, and rest.

4. Can I return to sports after ACL surgery?

Yes, but a gradual return with physical therapy and strength training is crucial.

5. Will I need physical therapy after an ACL injury?

Yes, physical therapy is essential for regaining strength, mobility, and knee stability.

Conclusion: Get Expert Orthopedic Treatment for ACL Injuries

ACL injuries require expert medical care to restore knee function and prevent long-term damage. Seeking treatment from an orthopedic surgeon ensures:

Accurate diagnosis with advanced imaging.
Personalized treatment plans for pain relief and recovery.
Surgical expertise for ACL reconstruction and repair.
Comprehensive rehabilitation programs for full knee function.

If you have suffered an ACL injury, consult our orthopedic surgeon today for specialized treatment and a successful recovery (214) 949-8918 or visit us https://specialtycareclinics.com/