Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tearsare a common sports-related injury, and they often require surgical reconstruction.
Without surgery, athletes with anACL tearmay have recurring problems withknee instability.
The Injury and Recovery Process
After an ACL tear, the knee is usually swollen and painful.
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Patients who sustain this injury are uncomfortable and know they have a serious problem with the knee joint.
Once the swelling improves and the pain subsides, patients may begin to feel much better.
Rehab after an ACL reconstruction typically takes three to six months to return to full function.
In the past, it was thought that a completely torn ACL has no chance of healing thoroughly.
Typically, the ACL is repaired surgically.
But it may also heal spontaneously over time.
Research indicates that some patients with spontaneous healing of the ACL experience a re-tear at a future time.
That said, some patients with an ACL repair also experience re-injury to the ligament.
The more important considerations are theexamination findings, the MRI results, and your personal goals.
A discussion with your surgeon regarding your expectations of treatment may be the best course of action.
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