A torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee is one of the most common orthopedic problems, especially among athletes. ACL tears can cause significant pain and knee instability depending on their severity. Moderate to severe tears may need to be treated surgically. With minimally invasive procedures, patients can usually return to work within a relatively short period of time after ACL reconstruction, although making a full recovery may take longer. 
Understanding ACL Tears
The ACL is one of four ligaments in the knee that contributes to the joint’s stability and flexibility. It usually tears after sudden twisting or trauma to the knee, as can happen after a fall or a car accident. Tears may consist of either mild ligament stretching, a partial tear, or a full tear, in which the ligament tears into two pieces.
Symptoms and the course of treatment depend heavily on the severity of the tear. Severe tears may make the patient completely unable to put weight on the knee, while mild tears may cause much more mild symptoms. Mild tears can often be treated non-surgically. Moderate to severe tears may need ACL reconstruction, especially if the patient is younger or more active.
ACL Reconstruction
During ACL reconstruction, the physician surgically repairs the ACL tear, often using tissue taken from another one of the patient’s tendons or ligaments.
Most of the time, ACL surgery can be performed arthroscopically. This means that the doctor makes small incisions next to the knee, and inserts a camera and the surgical tools through the incisions. This allows the doctor to operate on the knee without opening it up. Only a doctor can determine whether arthroscopic ACL surgery is the right course of treatment in a patient’s individual case.
Recovering from ACL Reconstruction
Arthroscopic surgery is associated with a shorter recovery time, although making a full recovery from an ACL tear can still be a lengthy process. Most patients can return home the same day after surgery. For the first few days, activity will be fairly limited, but will increase each day. 
Most patients with desk jobs are comfortable returning to work within about a week. However, individual healing times vary. For patients with physically strenuous jobs, it may take 6 weeks or longer to return to work. Going back on restricted duty may be necessary.
For athletes, the journey can be even longer. Although basic functioning can often be regained within weeks, it can take months to return to full athletic achievement and to train safely. For most athletes, an ACL tear means an end to the season.
Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your ACL tear. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or give us a call at (714) 979.8981.
