What to Expect After an ACL Tear: Immediate Care and Next Steps

An ACL tear injury is one of the most common and severe knee injuries among athletes and active individuals. According to the Cleveland Clinic, anywhere from 100,000 to 200,000 people in the U.S. tear an ACL each year.

Imagine enjoying a game of soccer or a run, only to feel a sudden, sharp pain in your knee. This injury can be both physically and emotionally challenging. However, understanding what to expect after an ACL tear can make the recovery process smoother. Our doctors at Maryland Orthopedic Specialists are experts in sports knee injuries and can get active people back to the activities they love safely and quickly.

In this blog, we will explore ACL tear injuries. We will discuss how to properly respond to them and the next steps to take for a successful recovery.

What is the ACL and How Does it Function?

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) connects the thighbone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia). It stabilizes the knee by preventing the tibia from sliding out in front of the femur and provides rotational stability.

Common Causes of ACL Tear Injuries

An ACL tear injury usually occurs during activities that involve sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction, which is common in sports like basketball, soccer, and skiing. Unfortunately, these tears can happen to both professional athletes and casual sports enthusiasts, making it essential for everyone to know how to handle such an injury.

First-Aid Steps to Take Immediately After an ACL Tear Injury

If you think you or someone around you has torn an ACL, you need to respond to it quickly.

Here are some first-aid steps to take:

  1. Stop any physical activity immediately to prevent further injury.
  2. Keep the leg elevated to reduce swelling.
  3. Apply ice to the injured area to decrease inflammation.

The Importance of Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (R.I.C.E.)

The R.I.C.E. method is a standard treatment for many soft tissue injuries, including ACL tears:

  1. Rest: Refrain from activity and avoid putting weight on the affected knee to reduce pain and further injury.
  2. Ice: Apply an ice pack for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours to reduce pain and swelling.
  3. Compression: Use an elastic bandage to wrap the knee to reduce swelling.
  4. Elevation: Keep the leg raised above heart level when resting to reduce swelling.

Seek Medical Attention

While R.I.C.E. is an appropriate response to an injury, it is still important to seek professional medical attention. Persistent pain, swelling, and an inability to move the knee are indicators that you need medical care.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

A doctor will typically diagnose an ACL tear through a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays and an MRI. These tools will help determine the extent of the injury and the best course of action.

Depending on the severity of the tear, treatment options can be:

  • Non-Surgical Treatment: Includes R.I.C.E., physical therapy, and wearing a brace. Suitable for partial tears or less active individuals.
  • Surgical Treatment: Often recommended for complete tears or athletes who want to continue playing. ACL repair or reconstruction is the rebuilding of the ligament with the help of a tissue graft.

Rehabilitation and Recovery Timelines for Each Treatment Path

Rehabilitation is crucial, regardless of whether you choose surgical or non-surgical treatment. Non-surgical recovery can take several months, while post-surgical recovery often spans 6-9 months, involving intensive physiotherapy.

Post-Treatment Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy is vital for rebuilding muscle strength and improving knee stability. A tailored rehab program can help you regain full functionality and prevent future injuries.

A typical rehab plan includes:

  1. Initial Phase: Focus on reducing swelling and regaining range of motion.
  2. Strengthening Period: Exercises that help with strengthening the muscles supporting the knee.
  3. Advanced Training: Sport-specific drills and exercises to prepare for a return to physical activities.

Safely Returning to Physical Activities

Before returning to sports, ensure you meet these criteria:

  1. No pain or swelling in the knee.
  2. Full range of motion.
  3. Strength comparable to the uninjured knee.
  4. Ability to perform sport-specific movements without discomfort.

Strategies for Preventing Future ACL Injuries

Preventing future ACL injuries involves:

  1. Strength Training: Focus on strengthening the muscles around the knee.
  2. Proper Technique: Use correct techniques for jumping, landing, and pivoting.
  3. Wearing Proper Gear: Use well-fitted shoes and knee braces if recommended by a doctor.

If you have an ACL injury and want expert treatment, schedule an appointment with an orthopedic sports medicine physician. Remember, with proper care and dedication, a full and active recovery is well within reach.

ACL Tear Treatment in Maryland

We are experts at ACL tear injury treatment at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division. We offer advanced and comprehensive treatment options and are experienced in treating athletes of all levels.

Dr. James Gardiner, Dr. Christopher Raffo, and Dr. John Christoforetti have advanced training in sports medicine, which makes us a trusted name among athletes and active individuals. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, call (301) 515-0900 or schedule an appointment online.