ACL Tear and Reconstruction Surgery for Athletes

drjohn

What is an ACL tear and how does it typically happen? What are the immediate symptoms and the feeling of knee instability? Why is reconstruction often recommended for active individuals? What are the graft options (patellar, hamstring)? How do I find a surgeon who specializes in sports medicine? What is the role of a physical therapist and a sports medicine hospital? What is the cost, and what is the rigorous guidance for the 9-month rehabilitation process?

drrahul

An ACL tear is a common knee injury that usually occurs during sports involving sudden stops, pivots, jumps, or direct contact, such as basketball, soccer, or skiing. Immediate symptoms include a popping sound, swelling, pain, and a feeling of knee instability. ACL reconstruction is often recommended for active individuals to restore knee stability and function. Surgical options use grafts like the patellar tendon, hamstring tendon, or sometimes donor tissue. The procedure is performed by orthopedic surgeons specializing in sports medicine at hospitals or sports medicine centers. Post-surgery, a rigorous 9-month rehabilitation program with physical therapy is essential, progressing from swelling reduction and range-of-motion exercises to strength, agility, and sport-specific drills. Costs vary by hospital and procedure, and adherence to the rehab protocol is critical for safely returning to full activity.

dranil

An ACL tear is a common knee injury where the ligament stabilizing the knee is torn, usually due to sudden twisting, pivoting, or impact during sports or accidents. Immediate symptoms include a popping sound, pain, swelling, reduced motion, and a feeling of knee instability or giving way. Reconstruction surgery is recommended for active individuals to restore knee stability needed for sports and daily activities. The most common grafts used in reconstruction are the patellar tendon and hamstring tendon, with each offering different benefits in fixation strength and recovery comfort.

To find a specialized sports medicine surgeon, seek orthopedic doctors with expertise in sports injuries, often available in sports medicine hospitals or orthopedic centers. Physical therapists play a vital role in post-surgery rehabilitation by guiding exercises that rebuild strength, stability, and movement. The surgery cost in India generally ranges from ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,65,000. Rehabilitation lasts about 9 months, involving phases of protection, strengthening, and gradual return to sport, requiring strict adherence to physiotherapy protocols for optimal recovery and to minimize re-injury risk.