An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is a common knee injury among people playing football, cricket, badminton and other sports. The ACL helps stabilise the knee joint. An injury can cause pain, swelling, restricted movement and a feeling of the knee giving way. 3

If you are looking for ACL injury treatment in Navi Mumbai, early assessment by an orthopaedic surgeon can help determine the most suitable treatment.

When is ACL reconstruction surgery needed?

Not every ACL tear requires surgery. ACL reconstruction surgery may be recommended for patients with recurrent knee instability, athletes wishing to return to pivoting sports, or individuals with associated meniscus or ligament injuries. 3

Selected patients with lower activity demands and a sufficiently stable knee may benefit from structured physiotherapy without surgery. Treatment decisions depend on clinical examination, imaging and activity goals. 3

How is ACL surgery performed?

Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction uses small incisions and a camera to help replace the torn ligament with a tendon graft. Common graft options include the hamstring, patellar or quadriceps tendon. The goal is to improve knee stability and support a safe return to daily activities and sports. Your surgeon will discuss which graft and procedure are appropriate for you. 3

ACL surgery rehabilitation: what to expect

Rehabilitation after ACL surgery is essential for restoring knee movement, strength, balance and stability. The programme is individualised and generally progresses through the following stages: 1, 2

  • Weeks 0-2: Control pain and swelling, regain knee extension and begin prescribed mobility exercises.
  • Weeks 2-12: Progress knee movement, quadriceps and hamstring strengthening, balance and walking.
  • Months 3-6: Progress towards running, agility and sport-specific exercises when the relevant functional criteria are met.
  • Months 9-12 or later: Consider returning to competitive sports after appropriate strength, stability and functional testing.

These are approximate stages, not fixed milestones or a programme to follow without supervision. An associated meniscus repair or other injury may change the plan. Returning to sports should depend on clinical assessment and functional readiness rather than time alone. Some people require longer. 1, 2, 3

Why is physiotherapy important after ACL surgery?

A structured ACL rehabilitation programme helps restore muscle strength, coordination, knee function and confidence. Regular follow-up with your orthopaedic surgeon and physiotherapist is important to monitor progress and address factors that can contribute to reinjury. 1, 2

Consult an orthopaedic surgeon in Seawoods, Navi Mumbai

If you experience knee instability following a sports injury, consult an orthopaedic surgeon for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Dr. Abhijeet Kadam

Orthopaedic doctor and Robotic Knee Replacement surgeon in Seawoods Navi Mumbai

Dr. Kadam’s Women and Bone Care Clinic

Shop No. 05, Plot No. 20, Mahavir Apartment, Sector 42, Seawoods, Navi Mumbai - 400706.

Appointments: Call +91 98928 03280

References

  1. NHS - Recovering from ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery
  2. Kotsifaki R, Korakakis V, King E, et al. - Aspetar clinical practice guideline on rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. British Journal of Sports Medicine. 2023;57:500-514.
  3. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - ACL Injury: Does It Require Surgery?

This article provides general education, not an individual diagnosis or treatment plan.

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