An ACL tear, a common sports injury, can significantly impact knee stability and function. Around 40% of all sports injuries are ACL-related. If you’ve suffered an ACL tear, physiotherapy can aid your recovery by enhancing range of motion, strength, and reducing pain and swelling, helping you regain your previous level of function.
Last updated in July 2023, more severe ACL injuries may necessitate knee ligament surgery, followed by a comprehensive physiotherapy knee rehabilitation program to fully restore knee function.
Understanding ACL Tear and its Causes
ACL tears occur when the knee experiences excessive extension or twisting. Such injuries often result from sudden impacts, accidents, improper landings after jumps, or falls.
Incidence and Risk Factors
ACL injuries are more common among female athletes (four to six times higher risk) and competitive or recreational athletes aged 15 to 25. Certain occupations and age also contribute to the risk of ACL tears.
Sports with High Incidence of ACL Injuries
Sports involving high dynamic knee loading, such as football, volleyball, handball, and basketball, report a higher incidence of knee injuries, including ACL tears.
Symptoms and Effects of ACL Tear
ACL tears lead to knee instability, restricted range of motion, swelling, and significant pain. Normal activities and sports may become difficult or impossible.
Treatment Options for ACL Tear
The treatment approach depends on the severity of the ACL tear:
- Non-Surgical Recovery: If the knee is stable and the individual doesn’t have an active lifestyle, physiotherapy can help decrease pain, improve range of motion and strength, facilitating return to function.
- ACL Reconstruction Surgery: Severe ACL injuries often require surgery. Physiotherapy is crucial post-surgery to aid in returning to normal activity and function.
Physiotherapy’s Role in ACL Recovery
Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in both non-surgical and surgical recovery:
- Pre-Surgery: Physiotherapy focuses on pain reduction, strengthening, gait correction, and guidance for supportive equipment like braces.
- Post-Surgery: Physiotherapy begins soon after surgery and involves progressive stages of rehabilitation. It aims to improve knee stability, range of motion, muscle strength, and overall functional stability.
Stages of Post-Surgery Knee Rehab
- Stage 1 (Week 1 to 3): Gentle leg movements, non-weight bearing walking, crutch usage, and pain management.
- Stage 2 (Weeks 3 to 6): Increasing exercise intensity, strengthening leg muscles, improving balance, and gradual walking without crutches.
- Stage 3 (Weeks 6 to 24): Gradual return to normal activity levels while ensuring graft healing and muscle strength.
- Stage 4 (After 6 months): Tailored rehab to attain activity-specific goals.
Preventing ACL Injuries
A focused knee injury prevention program is recommended for physically demanding activities involving sudden movements. Plyometrics, neuromuscular training, and strength training are key components of such programs.
Frequently Asked Questions about ACL Tear and Recovery
- ACL Definition: The Anterior Cruciate Ligament connects the femur to the tibia, providing stability during knee movements.
- Effect of ACL Tear: Knee instability, pain, swelling, and limited movement.
- Leg Elevation Post-Surgery: Elevate the leg at a 45-degree angle for 3 to 5 days to reduce swelling.
- Walking Post-Surgery: Weight-bearing walking may start 2 to 3 weeks post-surgery, or longer for additional knee work.
- Crutch Usage Post-Surgery: Crutches may be needed for 4 to 8 weeks, varying based on surgery type.
Note: This comprehensive guide is based on insights from Dr. Carol Johnson (PT), a sports physiotherapist at ReLiva with a Masters in Orthopaedics and Sports Rehabilitation.