An ACL tear can be either partial or complete.
Complete tears usually require surgery, but some partial tears are treatable with non-surgical techniques.
If your knee is stable, you may not need surgery.
Kali9 / Getty Images
What Is a Partial ACL Tear?
The ACL is important because it allows for normal movement andmechanics of the knee joint.
It also performs other functions to maintain the stability of your knee when you rotate it.
When it is injured, it is called a sprain.
ACL injuries most commonly occur when landing a jump, making a sudden change in running direction or falling.
When theACL is torn, you may notice problems in the way your knee functions.
Grade 2 injuries are rare and occur when the ligament stretches enough to become loose and damaged.
The decision often depends on your pain level and whether or not your knee is unstable.
A grade 3 sprain is a complete tear of the ACL.
With this injury, the knee joint becomes unstable and surgery is almost always necessary to correct it.
If the need for surgery isn’t clear, you may receive anarthroscopy.
For an ACL injury, however, arthroscopy can be very subjective.
Healthcare providers may have differing opinions on the scope of the problem and the “right” remedy.
The new ligament is created to replace the damaged ligament.
This surgery can be a good option for people with partial ACL tears.
Studies have shown that most patients undergoing partial reconstruction will have improved knee stability and function.
After this procedure, you will likely have to wear a knee brace for a few weeks.
Physical therapy may be needed for several months to help restore function to your knee.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most patients with partial tears can recover without surgery.
Recovery time typically takes about three months.
When surgery isn’t recommended, several non-surgical treatments can help people with partial ACL tears.
A custom sports brace may be fitted for patients who want to return to athletic activity.
The decision toproceed with the surgeryis best made by determining the amount of knee instability.
Trying to determine the extent of the injury can be difficult.
It’s the surest way to help you regain strength and motion in your knee.
Therapy programs are often divided into three phases.
Phase one focuses on returning motion to the joint and surrounding muscles.
Phase two centers on a strengthening regimen designed to protect the ligament.
Frequently Asked Questions
Probably not.
An X-ray will reveal the presence of a broken bone, but not a torn ligament.
All things depend on how well you follow the advice of your healthcare team, including your physical therapist.
2019;33(1):33-47. doi:10.1016/j.berh.2019.01.018.
2019;105(8):S259-65.
2021;3(6):e1827-34.
doi:10.1016/j.asmr.2021.08.010
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Sparing the growth plate in ACL reconstruction.
2012;98(8):S165-70.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries.
