ACL tears are one of the most common sports injuries. They are especially common among athletes who play sports that require sudden turns or stops, such as football and basketball. Below, we’ll take a look at how ACL tears are treated, as well as where to find the best ACL surgeon for athletes near Orange County, CA. 
About ACL Tears
The knee contains four ligaments that hold the joint in place. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can tear after twisting the knee or other types of trauma. Tears are graded on severity from Grade I to Grade III:
- Grade I – Minor tear or stretching
- Grade II – Partial tear
- Grade III – Complete tear – the ligament is severed
It is usually obvious immediately after tearing the ACL that something is wrong with the knee. However, symptoms of pain and knee instability vary drastically depending on the severity of the tear.
When Surgery is Required
Some minor, Grade I tears can be treated without surgery. In such cases, rest and ice allow inflammation to go down, while physical therapy can strengthen the leg muscles that support the knee.
However, many athletes who sustain ACL tears, especially Grade II or Grade III tears, need surgery. The ligaments receive a relatively low supply of blood, which makes it difficult for them to heal on their own. A doctor can determine whether or not surgery is necessary in each particular case.
How ACL Surgery Works
ACL surgery can normally be performed arthroscopically. During arthroscopic surgery, the doctor does not open up the knee joint. Instead, small incisions are made and a camera is used to view the inside of the joint. The doctor repairs the knee using small tools. Arthroscopic surgery is preferable because the risks and recovery time are lower than with open knee surgery.
Even with surgery, athletes with ACL tears face a significant recovery time. For most athletes, an ACL tear means an end to the season. It can take several months for the ligament to heal fully after surgery. Depending on the severity of the tear, prompt treatment may allow athletes to return to their previous level of functioning.
Best ACL Surgeon for Athletes 
The best ACL surgeon for athletes near Orange County, CA is Dr. Howard Marans, head of OC Orthopedic. Dr. Marans is an experienced orthopedist and sports medicine specialist who has treated hundreds of torn ACL over his 20 year career, both surgically and non-surgically. Dr. Marans understands the unique issues athletes face, and he works with each patient to develop a course of treatment that is appropriate for the patient’s unique clinical situation.
Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your sports injury. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at 714.979.8981.