Question 1

What is the ACL and what does it do?

Accepted Answer

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the main stabilizing ligaments in your knee. It runs diagonally through the middle of the knee, preventing the shinbone (tibia) from sliding forward relative to the thighbone (femur). It's crucial for cutting, pivoting, and sudden direction changes. Think of it as a critical rope holding two bones together during rotational movements.

Question 2

Can an ACL heal on its own without surgery?

Accepted Answer

No - a completely torn ACL will not heal back together on its own. The torn ends retract and the ligament is bathed in joint fluid, preventing natural healing. However, some people can function without an ACL by strengthening surrounding muscles and modifying activities. Success depends on your activity level - sedentary people or those avoiding pivoting sports may do okay, but athletes usually need surgery to return to sport.

Question 3

Do I definitely need surgery?

Accepted Answer

Not everyone needs ACL surgery. Consider surgery if: you're young and active, want to return to pivoting sports, have recurrent giving-way episodes, or have meniscus damage requiring repair. Consider non-surgical if: you're older and less active, willing to modify activities, have sedentary lifestyle, or have medical conditions making surgery risky. About 20-30% of people manage well without surgery if they're willing to modify activities.

Question 4

How long until I can play sport again?

Accepted Answer

After ACL reconstruction, minimum 9 months before return to competitive pivoting sports. Many surgeons recommend 12 months. You must pass objective tests (strength, hop tests, psychological readiness) before clearance. Returning too early dramatically increases re-tear risk. Only 65% of people return to pre-injury sport level, and only 55% return to competitive level. This isn't just about time - it's about meeting specific criteria.

Question 5

What type of graft is best?

Accepted Answer

Three main options: 1) Hamstring tendon (most common in Australia) - lower risk of kneeling pain but slightly higher re-tear risk in young athletes, 2) Patella tendon - gold standard for athletes, stronger graft but more kneeling pain and stiffness risk, 3) Quadriceps tendon - good for revisions or larger people. No graft is clearly superior - discuss with your surgeon based on your age, sport, and preferences.

Medical Disclaimer

ACL Injuries (Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear)

📖What is ACL Injuries (Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear)?

🔬What Causes It?

⚠️Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk if:

🛡️Prevention