ACL Tear
What is an ACL tear?
An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tear is an injury to one of the main stabilising ligaments of the knee. The ACL helps control forward movement and rotation of the shin bone relative to the thigh bone, and is commonly injured during sports involving sudden changes of direction, jumping, or pivoting.
Dr Varun Arora assesses and treats patients with ACL tears across Melbourne and regional Victoria, tailoring treatment to individual activity levels and goals.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of an ACL tear include:
A popping sensation at the time of injury
Rapid swelling
A feeling of instability or the knee giving way
Reduced range of motion
Difficulty continuing activity after injury
Causes and risk factors
An ACL tear can develop for a number of reasons, including:
Sudden changes of direction during sport
Landing awkwardly from a jump
Direct contact or collision
Sudden deceleration
Treatment options for an ACL tear
Treatment for an ACL tear depends on factors including the degree of instability, activity level, and goals for return to sport or daily function.
Non-surgical treatment
For some patients, particularly those with lower activity demands or a stable knee, non-surgical management may be appropriate, including:
Structured physiotherapy and strengthening
Bracing
Activity modification
Surgical treatment
For patients with significant instability, or those wishing to return to pivoting sports, surgical reconstruction of the ligament is often recommended. This is typically performed arthroscopically:
Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction — used as the surgical approach for ACL reconstruction, in which a graft is used to reconstruct the torn ligament.
ACL Tear Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need surgery for an ACL tear?
This depends on your individual level of instability, activity goals, and lifestyle. Dr Arora will discuss the most suitable option for you.
Can I return to sport after an ACL tear?
Many patients return to sport following appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, though timeframes and outcomes vary between individuals.
Knee Surgery in Melbourne
If you would like to discuss your symptoms or treatment options, contact Dr Varun Arora to schedule a consultation.