Question 1

How do I know if I have torn a knee ligament?

Accepted Answer

A twisting injury may cause a pop, swelling, and pain. Ultimately, the knee may feel unstable, untrustworthy, or buckle with activities. The physical examination is usually very helpful in making the diagnosis, with an MRI used to confirm the injury and evaluate associated damage.

Question 2

Which knee ligament injuries can heal without surgery?

Accepted Answer

The MCL is the most common knee ligament injury and usually heals without surgery. ACL tears will not heal on their own, although symptoms can sometimes be controlled with physical therapy and activity modification.

Question 3

Does every ACL tear require reconstruction?

Accepted Answer

No. Older or less active patients with limited activity goals may be treated without surgery. However, most patients require reconstruction to return to normal functional activities. An ACL deficient knee is also at risk for recurrent instability and progressive damage over time.

Question 4

Can I return to sports without an ACL?

Accepted Answer

Some lower-demand activities may be possible without an ACL, often with the use of a brace. More demanding sports involving cutting, pivoting, or rapid changes of direction are usually very difficult without a functioning ACL.

Question 5

What are the long-term consequences of leaving an ACL tear untreated?

Accepted Answer

Repeated instability and giving way can progressively damage the meniscus and articular cartilage. Over time, this can accelerate degenerative changes in the knee and lead to arthritis well beyond what would normally be expected for the patient's age.

Question 6

When can I return to athletic activities after ACL reconstruction?

Accepted Answer

Return to sports is gradual and depends on strength, stability, and the demands of the activity. Moderate-demand sports may be resumed around six months, while higher-demand cutting and pivoting sports generally require closer to nine months.

Question 7

What do ACL and MCL stand for?

Accepted Answer

ACL stands for anterior cruciate ligament, which is located inside the knee. MCL stands for medial collateral ligament, which is located along the inner side of the knee.

Ligament Injuries