If you’ve hurt your knee while playing sports, running, or during a fall, you might have an ACL tear. But what is it, and how do you know if you have one?
Let’s make it simple and easy to understand!
What is the ACL?
The ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) is one of the key ligaments in your knee that helps keep the knee stable. It connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia).
When the ACL tears, the knee feels weak and unstable, and moving becomes painful.
How Does an ACL Tear Happen?
An ACL tear usually happens due to:
- Sudden stops or changes in direction (common in football, cricket, basketball)
- Jumping and landing awkwardly
- Direct hit to the knee during a fall or accident
- Twisting the knee while the foot is fixed on the ground
Symptoms of an ACL Tear
Here’s what you may feel if you have torn your ACL:
A loud “pop” sound at the time of injury
- Severe knee pain and swelling within a few hours
- Feeling of the knee “giving way” when you stand or walk
- Difficulty bending or straightening the leg
- Trouble walking or standing on the injured leg
How is an ACL Tear Diagnosed?
At Guru Orthopedic Speciality Clinic, Solapur, we diagnose an ACL tear by:
- A physical examination of your knee
- Checking for knee stability
- Confirming with an MRI scan to see the ligament clearly
Treatment Options for ACL Tear
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and your lifestyle.
1️⃣ Non-Surgical Treatment
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
- Pain-relieving medicines
- Physiotherapy to strengthen muscles
- Braces to support the knee
Best for partial tears or people who do not play sports
2️⃣ Surgical Treatment – ACL Reconstruction Surgery
- Minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery
- Uses a tissue graft to replace the torn ligament
- Faster recovery, less pain, small scars
- After surgery, physiotherapy is important for complete recovery
How Long is the Recovery?
- Non-surgical treatment recovery: 2 to 3 months
- After ACL surgery:
- Start walking with support in 1 to 2 weeks
- Physiotherapy for 3 to 6 months
- Return to sports activities after 6 to 9 months (with doctor’s advice)
Why Choose Guru Orthopedic Speciality Clinic for ACL Tear Treatment?
- Dr. Akshay Hanamshetti is trained internationally in complex knee surgeries
- Expert in ACL reconstruction using advanced arthroscopy techniques
- Complete care from diagnosis to rehab
- Trusted by athletes and active individuals across Solapur
If you think you have an ACL tear, don’t wait! Book your consultation with Dr. Akshay Hanamshetti at Guru Orthopedic Speciality Clinic, Solapur today.