For many young athletes and fitness enthusiasts, knee injuries can be frustrating and life-changing. Among them, an ACL tear (Anterior Cruciate Ligament tear) is one of the most common — especially in sports like football, basketball, cricket, and badminton.
Dr. Dinesh Reddy, a specialist in Arthroscopic and Sports Injury Surgery, explains what causes ACL tears, how to recognize them early, and what modern treatment options can help you safely return to your game.
What Is an ACL Tear?
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of the key ligaments that helps stabilize your knee joint.
It connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) and allows smooth back-and-forth motion.
An ACL tear usually occurs when:
- You suddenly change direction while running,
- Land awkwardly from a jump, or
- Experience a direct blow to the knee.
It’s a common injury among athletes, gym-goers, and active young adults.
Common Causes of ACL Tears
- Sudden twisting or pivoting movements during sports
- Improper landing after jumps
- Collision or tackle during football, basketball, or cricket
- Weak or imbalanced thigh muscles
- Overtraining without proper warm-up or stretching
Symptoms: How to Know If You’ve Torn Your ACL
An ACL injury is usually felt immediately. The signs include:
- A “pop” sound at the moment of injury
- Severe pain and swelling in the knee within hours
- Instability or buckling of the knee while walking or turning
- Difficulty bending or straightening the leg
- Loss of motion or strength
If these symptoms appear, you should see an orthopedic specialist right away. Ignoring the injury can lead to further damage to other parts of the knee, like the meniscus or cartilage.
Diagnosis
Your doctor may perform:
- A physical examination to check joint stability
- MRI scan to confirm the extent of ligament damage
- X-rays to rule out bone fractures
Dr. Dinesh Reddy emphasizes early diagnosis — as timely treatment greatly improves recovery and helps prevent long-term knee instability.
Treatment Options for ACL Tears
1. Non-Surgical Management
For partial tears or mild sprains, treatment may include:
- Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE)
- Knee braces for support
- Physiotherapy to strengthen muscles and restore movement
However, for active young adults or athletes, surgery is often recommended to restore full knee stability.
2. Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction Surgery
This is the gold-standard treatment for a complete ACL tear.
Using keyhole (arthroscopic) techniques, the damaged ligament is replaced with a graft (a tissue taken from your hamstring or patellar tendon).
Advantages of Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction:
- Minimal cuts and scars
- Faster healing and rehabilitation
- Lower risk of complications
- Quicker return to sports and daily life
Dr. Dinesh Reddy specializes in advanced arthroscopic techniques, ensuring precision, faster recovery, and excellent long-term outcomes.
Rehabilitation & Recovery
Recovery after ACL reconstruction involves structured physiotherapy and muscle strengthening.
Typical recovery timeline:
- 0–6 weeks: Reduce swelling, restore knee movement
- 6–12 weeks: Strength training and controlled weight-bearing
- 3–6 months: Balance, agility, and endurance training
- 6–9 months: Gradual return to sports under doctor supervision
Dr. Dinesh Reddy advises patients to follow a personalized rehab plan to regain confidence and prevent re-injury.
Returning to Sports
With proper treatment and rehabilitation, most athletes can safely return to their sport within 6 to 9 months.
Modern surgical methods and guided physiotherapy ensure that your knee regains full strength, flexibility, and stability.
When to Consult a Specialist
See an orthopedic doctor if you:
- Heard a “pop” sound during a sports injury
- Feel your knee giving way or locking
- Have swelling or pain lasting more than a few days
- Early consultation helps in preserving your knee’s long-term function and avoiding secondary injuries.
Dr. C. Dinesh Reddy is an Orthopaedic, Joint Replacement, and Arthroscopic Surgeon with expertise in treating complex trauma, sports injuries, and joint disorders.
He is known for performing minimally invasive arthroscopic surgeries that ensure faster recovery, minimal pain, and excellent outcomes for active patients and athletes.
- Dr. C. Dinesh Reddy, Consultant Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon
📍 Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad
📞 +91 7337236777
🌐 www.drdineshreddyorthopedic.com