Overview
About ACL Injury Treatment
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is the primary stabiliser of the knee against forward tibial movement and rotation. ACL injuries are common in sports involving sudden stops, pivoting, and jumping — such as football, basketball, and badminton. Treatment options range from conservative management with physiotherapy for less active individuals to arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using hamstring or patellar tendon graft for athletes and active patients seeking full return to sport.
Key Benefits
Accurate MRI-confirmed diagnosis to guide the correct treatment plan
Arthroscopic reconstruction — minimally invasive with tiny incisions
Choice of graft type (hamstring / patellar tendon) based on patient need
Sport-specific rehabilitation protocol designed for full return to play
High success rate — over 90% of patients return to their pre-injury sport level
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have torn my ACL?
A typical ACL tear causes a "pop" sound at the time of injury, followed by immediate severe pain, rapid swelling within hours, and a feeling of knee instability — especially when pivoting or changing direction. MRI confirms the diagnosis.
Does every ACL tear need surgery?
Not necessarily. Less active individuals or older patients with stable knees may manage well with physiotherapy alone. However, athletes, young active individuals, and those with associated meniscus tears generally benefit from surgical reconstruction.
What graft is used for ACL reconstruction?
The most common grafts are hamstring tendon (taken from the back of the thigh) and patellar tendon (from the front of the knee). Both have excellent outcomes. The choice depends on patient factors, sport, and surgeon preference.
How long is recovery after ACL reconstruction?
Return to sport typically takes 9–12 months. Walking without support is achieved in 2–3 weeks, driving in 4–6 weeks, jogging in 3–4 months, and sport-specific training from 6 months. Full psychological and functional readiness is assessed before return to play.
Can I re-tear my ACL after reconstruction?
Re-tear rate is approximately 5–10%. Risk is higher if return to sport is rushed before full rehabilitation. Following the complete rehabilitation protocol and returning to sport only when fully cleared significantly reduces re-tear risk.