An ACL injury is a tear or sprain of the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee — one of its four major ligaments. It typically happens during sudden stops, pivoting, or awkward landings in sport. A complete tear often requires surgical reconstruction followed by 9–12 months of physiotherapy rehabilitation.
An ACL injury is a tear or sprain of the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee — one of its four major ligaments. It typically happens during sudden stops, pivoting, or awkward landings in sport. A complete tear often requires surgical reconstruction followed by 9–12 months of physiotherapy rehabilitation.
Summary
ACL injuries are among the most serious sports injuries, often requiring surgical reconstruction and 9–12 months of rehabilitation. The injury occurs most frequently in football, basketball, and skiing, and a characteristic popping sound is usually heard at the moment of injury.
Grades of ACL Injury
- Grade 1 (Sprain): Ligament stretched but not torn. Recovery 2–4 weeks.
- Grade 2 (Partial Tear): Partially torn. Some instability. Recovery 4–8 weeks.
- Grade 3 (Complete Tear): Fully torn. Surgical reconstruction + 9–12 months rehabilitation.
ACL Reconstruction Surgery
Surgery replaces the torn ACL with a graft from the patient's own hamstring or patellar tendon. Physiotherapy begins immediately after surgery, focusing on reducing swelling, restoring range of motion, and progressively strengthening the knee.
