If the knee’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, it may be necessary to perform surgery, depending on the severity and nature of the tear. In some cases, physical therapy and home exercises can strengthen the muscles that support the knee so that ACL surgery is not necessary.  

Physical Therapy & Home Exercises

Physical therapy often forms a cornerstone of treatment for ACL tears. Physical therapists help patients through exercises that strengthen the legs to help support the knees better. They also help patients through exercises that restore a full range of motion to the knee. Even when surgery is used, physical therapy is used afterwards to help heal the knee.

For the best results from physical therapy, patients should perform home exercises as well. The physical therapist will provide information on which exercises to perform and how often they should be practiced.

Although exercises for the knee can be useful in promoting healing and preventing the use of surgery, they should only be done under the direction of a doctor or physical therapist.

Considerations for Surgery

The decision of whether or not to perform ACL surgery is complex. The biggest question is whether or not the tear is likely to respond to conservative methods. Although the tear itself won’t heal on its own, it is often possible to control symptoms with non-surgical methods, thus avoiding the use of surgery. For very severe tears, this may not be feasible.

Another consideration is whether or not full use of the knee is required. A young person or an athlete typically needs to be able to perform physically strenuous activities and to be able to use the knee for many decades. On the other hand, less active and older people may not need such extensive use of the knee, and may instead be satisfied to be able to walk and perform normal, low-impact activities without pain.

About ACL Surgery

ACL surgery is done arthroscopically, which means that the doctor makes small incisions around the knee and inserts a camera and tools into the knee, as an alternative to completely opening up the joint. This minimally invasive approach makes it possible to perform the procedure in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia and sedation.

During ACL surgery, the doctor takes a small piece of tendon or ligament from another part of the body. This tendon or ligament is used to reconstruct the damaged part of the ACL. After the surgery, physical therapy is used to help strengthen the leg and ensure that the knee is fully functional and usable.

You should never embark on a home exercise regimen designed to treat a knee problem without talking to your doctor first. To schedule your consultation with Orange County’s top orthopedist, please click below or call us at 714.979.8981.