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Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear
How is an ACL tear diagnosed?
To confirm an ACL tear, your doctor may perform or recommend the following tests:
- Physical examination. Your doctor will examine your knees and ask you to move your knee in different directions to observe your knee function.
- Imaging tests. Your doctor may recommend tests such as an X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or ultrasound scan.
- Arthroscopy. Your doctor may recommend arthroscopy in some cases. In an arthroscopy, your doctor will make tiny incisions and insert a small camera so that the type and extent of your injury can be viewed and treated.
How is an ACL tear treated?
Depending on the extent of your injury, age and activity level, your injury may be treated through non-surgical or surgical treatment.
Non-surgical treatment
Non-surgical treatment for ACL tears include:
- Rest and immobilisation to reduce knee pain and swelling
- Physiotherapy to:
- Restore knee function and range of movement
- Strengthen the surrounding leg muscles
- Increase knee stability
ACL reconstruction surgery
You may need surgery if your knee injury is severe. Your doctor may recommend a knee arthroscopy, also known as ACL reconstruction surgery. It is a minimally invasive procedure to remove the torn ligament and replace it with a piece of tendon from another part of your knee or from a donor.
An ACL tear can significantly impact your level of activity and performance in sports. If you suspect you have an ACL tear, consult an orthopaedic specialist to find the most suitable treatment for you.
Depending on the extent of your injury, age and activity level, your injury may be treated through non-surgical or surgical treatment.
This page has been reviewed by our medical content reviewers.
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