Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear & Reconstruction — Expert Guidance (India Focus)
ACL tear symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, arthroscopic ACL reconstruction, recovery timeline, and FAQs. Expert guidance for patients across India.
What is the ACL?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the major stabilizing ligaments in the knee. It connects the thighbone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia) and controls forward motion and rotational stability of the knee joint. A tear typically causes significant instability, especially during pivoting movements.
Who is at Risk?
ACL tears commonly occur during sports involving:
- Sudden stops or direction changes
- Jumping and landing (e.g., basketball, soccer)
- Direct collisions during contact sports
Women athletes have a higher incidence of ACL tears due to biomechanical and hormonal factors.
Symptoms of an ACL Tear
Typical symptoms include:
- A “popping” sensation at the time of injury
- Rapid knee swelling within hours
- Pain and difficulty bearing weight
- Sensation that the knee “gives way” during activity
- Loss of stability, especially on uneven surfaces
Diagnosis
ACL tears are diagnosed through:
- Clinical examination (e.g., Lachman test) — identifies ligament instability
- Imaging studies (MRI) — confirms tear, evaluates meniscus/cartilage injuries
The Lachman test is widely considered one of the most accurate physical exams for ACL rupture diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Management
Appropriate for:
- Partial tears
- Low-demand activity profiles
- Minimal functional instability
Includes: Physical therapy, activity modification, knee bracing.
Surgical Reconstruction
ACL does not heal spontaneously after complete tear; reconstruction is recommended when:
- There is recurrent instability
- The patient is young and active
- Pivoting or cutting activities are expected to continue
ACL reconstruction surgery replaces the torn ligament with a graft, often using the patient’s own tissue (autograft) such as hamstring, patellar tendon, or quadriceps tendon.
Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction
Most modern ACL reconstructions are performed arthroscopically:
- Small incisions
- Use of camera and instruments
- Smaller scars and typically faster recovery
Note: Grafts are selected based on activity level, anatomy, and patient preference.
Recovery Process
Recovery after ACL reconstruction is a phased process:
✓ Phased Recovery Timeline
- Immediate Post-Surgery (0–2 weeks): Pain control, swelling reduction
- Early Rehab (2–6 weeks): Gradual motion and weight-bearing
- Strength & Stability (6–12 weeks): Balanced strength work
- Return to Sport (4–9 months): Activity-specific drills and clearance-based return
Many patients achieve daily activity function by 3–4 months and competitive sports return near 6–9 months with structured rehabilitation.
Why Choose an ACL Specialist Surgeon in India
At Advance Orthopedic & Sports Injury Hospital, Jaipur:
- Fellowship-trained sports knee surgeon with extensive arthroscopy experience
- Personalized graft choice and surgical planning
- Integrated rehabilitation protocols
- Transparent surgical pathways and patient education
Dr. Naveen Sharma is recognized for advanced ACL reconstruction techniques, arthroscopic precision, and patient-centric care for individuals from across India.
Frequently Asked Questions — ACL
Does every ACL tear need surgery?
No. Partial tears with minimal instability can sometimes be managed non-surgically. Reconstruction is often advised for active lifestyles and persistent instability.
What is the best graft choice?
There is no single “best” graft; it is chosen based on patient goals, anatomy, and surgeon assessment (hamstring, patellar tendon, quadriceps).
When can I return to sports?
Jogging typically by 8–12 weeks (when cleared); competitive pivoting sports usually after 6–9 months with strength/functional milestones.
Contact for ACL Consultation
Advance Orthopedic & Sports Injury Hospital
Phone: +91 82906 88810 / +91 90578 61666
Email: naveenorthokem@gmail.com
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
For expert evaluation and personalized treatment planning, please reach out to our team.
Useful Videos About ACL Reconstruction (Arthroscopic) in India — Dr Naveen Sharma
Special Links
Our Contacts
- ADVANCE ORTHOPEDIC AND SPORTS INJURY HOSPITAL,
E-7, HANUMAN PATH, NEAR METRO PILLAR 95, NEW SANGANER ROAD, SODALA, JAIPUR 302019
Get directions on the map - +918209830287
(24/7 General inquiry) - +91 9828504050
(09:00 AM to 06:00 PM) - naveenorthokem@gmail.com
