You may be familiar with the term Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). What actually is it?

Is it possible for a patient to return to sports, specifically football, after the surgery? If possible, how long would it take? What are the factors which should be considered before diving into the world of sports?

Nothing to worry, all your queries would be addressed by Mykare Health, in this blog. Let us begin from the very basics.

What is Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)?

Anterior Cruciate is a ligament which is situated in the centre of a knee which prevents the movement of tibia over the femur. It is one of the major ligaments that helps in stabilising the knee joint.

What is ACL repair?

Anterior Cruciate Ligament ( ACL) sprain or tear is one of the most common knee injuries which traumatise the individuals. Sport enthusiasts belonging to all age groups can experience a tear especially if they are performing high demand sports like football and basketball.

As both of them need the active participation of legs. This problem is caused either in the sudden change in direction or jumping.

Risk Factors That Lead to ACL Injuries?

• Poor physical health

• Misfitting of footwear

• Use of low quality sports, equipment especially the skis that will not release during a fall

• Playing on artificial turf.

What Are the Symptoms Associated With the ACL Injuries?

• A loud popping sensation in the knee which is all of a sudden

• Severe Pain

• Knees become unstable

• Swelling

Now let us move to the various types of treatment associated with it. Let me begin with the first aids that one could practise at home.

• Avoid lifting weight which burdens your in knees

• Ice your knees at least once in two hours for a span of 20 minutes

• Usage of compression bags around the knee will make you feel better.

• Lie down on a bed and support your knee using a pillow.

Now it is the time to discuss the medical procedures related to ACL injuries. So first of all I will help you to understand how an ACL injury is diagnosed.

The medical professional usually identifies a torn ACL through a physical examination and taking an MRI is very important to make sure that the other parts of the knee are not affected.

ACL Reconstruction Surgery

ACL reconstruction is a prevalent yet significant surgical procedure typically required for a completely torn ACL, as opposed to a sprained or partially torn one, which can heal on its own.

This surgery involves using a tendon or ligament from another part of the body, known as a graft, to repair the damaged ACL.

Various techniques are employed for ACL reconstruction and grafting.

While non-surgical options exist for restoring knee mobility, ACL reconstruction, followed by rehabilitation, is often necessary for resuming sports participation, particularly those prone to ACL injuries.

Merits and Demerits of ACL surgery?

• Assessing the decision to undergo ACL surgery involves considering various factors, as untreated ACL tears will lead to cartilage problems, knee instability, and decreased future functionality.

• Surgery is often recommended for individuals who seek to resume sports participation, although success is not guaranteed.

• Benefits of ACL surgery include restoring knee function, safeguarding cartilage, supporting the ACL, and potentially enabling a return to sports.

• However, it's essential to weigh both the pros and cons of Potential complications of ACL surgery including ACL re-tear, knee stiffness, infection, graft rejection, and loss of range of motion.

• While ACL surgery can be highly effective, like any surgical procedure, it carries risks.

• Consulting with a physiotherapist to explore non-surgical treatment options is advisable before making a decision.

How Long Will It Take To Recover?

The recovery period after ACL surgery typically involves a process called ligamentisation, where the graft becomes integrated into the body, lasting around nine to ten months.

While a few elite athletes may return to sports in six months, for most individuals, a more realistic recovery time after an ACL tear is at least eight to nine months.

Returning to football after an injury and surgery consumes both time and patience. To ensure a safe return to football after ACL reconstruction surgery, it's important to follow a structured recovery program.

Here are some key tips and milestones to be aware of during your ACL recovery:

1. Regaining fitness: When talking about fitness it is important that the individual should focus on cardiovascular workouts like speed walking to regain the fitness levels. Swimming can also be beneficial for exercise without putting weight on the knee.

Returning to football depends on the strength, stability, and range of motion of your knee. Clearance to play typically occurs when there is no pain during running, minimal swelling, and when the injured knee is as strong and stable as the uninjured one.

2. Stay motivated: Recovery is a tiring process , so maintaining motivation is crucial. Consider developing an exercise chart and seek support from healthcare professionals if needed.

3. Regular physiotherapy follow ups: seek the help of your physiotherapist so that the doctor will monitor your progress and determine when you're ready to advance to the next level.

More About the Post Surgery Period

Immediately after surgery: Emphasis on reducing swelling with the help of ice and compression. Pain management may involve painkillers as advised by healthcare professionals.

• Two to six weeks after surgery: Begin light therapeutic exercises such as knee extension and walking. Crutches may not be needed after two to three weeks.

• Six to twelve weeks after surgery: Your knee will be stronger, allowing for more pressure and strenuous exercises. Full range of movement should be achieved, and non-weight bearing exercises like swimming and cycling can be introduced.

ACL tears are serious knee injuries, particularly for athletes aiming to return to sports.

Successful surgery and physical therapy are essential for resuming normal activities, but even then, sustaining high-level performance is not guaranteed.

Most high-performance athletes can expect to return to activities within 8-12 months, while others may require more time, especially if resources for recovery and rehabilitation are limited.

Rushing back into the game too soon can risk reinjury, so finding the right balance is vital for a successful return to sports and long-term career sustainability. Athletes should discuss potential timelines with their orthopaedic surgeon to address any concerns.