A torn ACL can change everything, from how you walk to how confident you feel in everyday movement. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) plays a critical role in keeping the knee stable, especially during sports and physical activity. When it tears, many people experience instability, pain, and loss of strength. ACL reconstruction surgery is often the solution for those who want to return to a more active, reliable lifestyle.
This procedure is designed to rebuild the damaged ligament using healthy tissue, allowing the knee to function normally again.
The Purpose of the ACL
The ACL is one of the main stabilizing ligaments in the knee joint. It prevents the shinbone from sliding forward and helps control rotational movement. Without it, the knee may feel loose or unstable—especially during movements like turning, stopping suddenly, or landing from jumps.
Common causes of ACL tears include:
- Sports injuries from twisting or awkward landings
- Sudden direction changes
- Car accidents or high-impact falls
- Direct blows to the knee
Once torn, the ACL cannot heal on its own. That’s why surgery becomes an important option for many active individuals.
What Does ACL Reconstruction Involve?
Rather than sewing the damaged ligament back together, ACL reconstruction replaces it entirely using a graft. A graft is a piece of healthy tissue that functions as a new ligament.
Graft options include:
- Tissue from the patient’s own knee or thigh
- Tendons from other areas of the leg
- Donor tissue from a medical tissue bank
During surgery, the surgeon carefully removes the torn ACL and places the graft into the knee using small incisions and a specialized camera. This technique, called arthroscopic surgery, allows for improved precision, minimal scarring, and quicker healing.
The graft is anchored securely into the bone, forming a new ligament framework. Over time, the body adapts to the graft and it becomes a strong, functional ACL.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
Most ACL reconstruction surgeries take between one and two hours. Many patients return home the same day and begin recovery shortly after.
The Recovery Process
Recovery from ACL surgery is a journey that requires commitment and patience. Rehabilitation is just as important as the surgery itself.
Recovery typically progresses in stages:
Early phase (First few weeks):
- Pain and swelling management
- Gentle motion exercises
- Crutches or bracing as needed
Middle phase (1–3 months):
- Strengthening the muscles around the knee
- Improving balance and coordination
- Returning to everyday walking
Later phase (4–9 months):
- Sport-specific training
- Agility and endurance exercises
- Preparing for a return to physical activities
Many people return to sports within 6 to 9 months, depending on recovery progress and compliance with physical therapy.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Surgery?
ACL reconstruction is commonly recommended for individuals who:
- Participate in sports or physically demanding work
- Experience frequent knee instability
- Have additional knee damage
- Want to safely return to active movement
- Don’t improve with physical therapy alone
However, conservative (non-surgical) treatment may be appropriate for some individuals depending on lifestyle and medical condition.
Safety and Success Rates
ACL reconstruction has a high success rate, especially when paired with a strong rehabilitation plan. Most patients experience significant improvement in knee stability and function.
Like all surgeries, there are potential risks, including infection, swelling, stiffness, or graft failure—but serious complications are uncommon.
Life After ACL Surgery
Many patients return not only to normal activity but also stronger than before. The surgery can restore confidence, mobility, and long-term joint health. With dedication to physical therapy, individuals often regain balance, power, and control in their movements.
An ACL tear doesn’t have to end an active lifestyle. ACL reconstruction surgery offers a reliable and proven path toward recovery. If knee instability is holding you back, consulting with an orthopedic specialist can help determine if this procedure is right for you.
With the proper care and rehabilitation, people can return to the activities they love—stronger, steadier, and safer.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter by Dr. Kevin Crawford, Sports Medicine Doctor and Orthopedic Surgeon in Lubbock.
This article is for general purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have any medical issues or questions, consult your physician.