An ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) tear is a common injury, especially among active individuals or athletes involved in high-impact sports. A torn ACL can cause knee instability, making movement difficult and impacting daily activities, which may require an ACL ligament tear surgery for a full recovery. This article explains what to expect from the surgery, the recovery process, and how strengthening exercises can help prevent future injuries.
ACL Surgery Procedure
When ACL ligament tears are significant, surgery is often recommended to restore knee stability. The procedure typically involves reconstructing the damaged ligament using a graft from the patient’s own tissue or, in some cases, a donor. ACL reconstruction is usually performed at an orthopaedic clinic using minimally invasive arthroscopy, which involves small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon. This approach leads to less scarring and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. A surgeon will evaluate the injury and suggest the most suitable surgical approach based on the individual’s condition.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery from ACL ligament tear surgery is gradual. While healing timelines vary, full recovery typically takes several months. In the early stages, rest and managing swelling are essential. As recovery progresses, physical therapy plays a key role. Through structured rehabilitation exercises, strength and mobility are rebuilt, helping restore knee function and prepare for activity. Although returning to sports or strenuous physical activity may take time, sticking to the recovery plan is crucial for long-term knee health.
Post-Operative Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation after ACL ligament tear surgery is necessary for rebuilding strength and stability in the knee. The process usually starts with gentle range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness. As recovery continues, strengthening exercises focusing on the muscles around the knee, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves, are introduced. These exercises help stabilise the knee joint and prepare it for physical activity. Staying committed to the rehabilitation plan is essential—skipping rehab or returning to activity too soon can result in setbacks or reinjury.
Knee Strengthening Exercises for Prevention
While surgery can aid recovery from an ACL tear, prevention is the most appropriate approach. Strengthening the knee before injury can significantly reduce the risk of a tear. Exercises that target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and core are crucial for knee stability. Squats and lunges effectively work these muscles, while hamstring curls help improve muscle balance and joint function. Regularly incorporating these exercises into your fitness routine can maintain knee strength and resilience, lowering the likelihood of an ACL injury in the future.
Incorporating Balance and Stability Training
Balance training is another important part of both preventing and recovering from ACL injuries. Exercises that improve balance and body awareness can help the body react better to sudden movements and changes in direction. Simple exercises, such as single-leg stands or using a stability ball, improve joint control and reduce the risk of an ACL tear. By training the body to maintain stability during unexpected movements, active individuals can strengthen their knees and lower the chance of injury.
An ACL ligament tear can disrupt daily life, but recovery is possible with proper treatment and rehabilitation. A comprehensive approach, including ACL ligament tear surgery, strengthening exercises, and balance training, is vital for effective recovery and injury prevention.
If you’re managing an ACL tear or want to prevent future knee injuries, consulting with an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore is a sensible first step. At Specialist Orthopaedic Clinic, we are dedicated to providing care and guidance throughout your recovery journey.
Schedule a consultation with us today.