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Getting Active Again After an ACL Tear

Phoenix Orthopedic Group Blog Getting Active Again After an ACL Tear
Getting Active Again After an ACL Tear

A sudden twist, awkward landing, or a quick change in direction is all it takes to injure your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Though ACL tears are often associated with athletes, they can happen to anyone, whether you’re playing a sport, hiking a trail, or stepping off a curb the wrong way.

Because the pain, swelling, and instability of an ACL injury can keep you from the activities you love, many people are eager to recover. 

At Phoenix Orthopedic Group, sports medicine physician, and orthopedic surgeon Robert A. Mileski, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating ACL injuries, helping patients throughout Scottsdale get back on their feet. 

Whether you’re an athlete eager to return to play or someone looking to regain everyday mobility, our team provides exceptional care and individualized recovery plans.

ACL injury overview

The ACL is one of four key ligaments that stabilize the knee joint. Running diagonally through the middle of the knee, it connects the thigh bone to the shin bone, helping to prevent excessive forward movement and ensuring smooth rotational motion.

ACL injuries often occur during sudden direction changes, improper landings after a jump, or direct impact to the knee. A harsh twist or hyperextension can also cause the ligament to tear. Although athletes in sports like football, basketball, and soccer face a high risk, everyday activities like stepping off a curb incorrectly or slipping on ice can also lead to an ACL injury.

ACL injuries are classified into three grades based on severity:

ACL injuries can lead to:

What to expect during recovery

Your ACL plays a critical role in knee stability and movement, so recovering properly requires commitment to a structured treatment plan. The timeline and approach depend on factors like injury severity, overall health, age, and whether additional knee damage is present.

In the first couple of weeks, the focus is on reducing pain and inflammation. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) help ease discomfort while protecting the injured knee. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need to use crutches or wear a brace to prevent further strain.

Physical therapy is essential to recovery. Strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving flexibility will help restore function and prevent future injuries. Therapy starts with gentle movements and gradually incorporates more advanced exercises to rebuild strength and stability.

The timeline for recovering from an ACL injury depends on the severity and individual circumstances. For minor injuries, you might return to regular activities within a few weeks. More severe cases, especially complete ACL tears requiring surgery, can take anywhere from 6-12 months for a full recovery.

A recovery plan built around your goals

An ACL injury can feel like a major setback, but with the right treatment and rehabilitation, you can regain strength, and stability in your knee. Taking the right steps now will set you up for long-term success.

Phoenix Orthopedic Group is devoted to helping patients in Scottsdale, Arizona, and the surrounding areas heal and return to the activities they love. If you’re dealing with an ACL injury, contact our team today to schedule a consultation, and trust our team to get you back on your feet.