When you twist your knee or fall on it, you can tear the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which is a stabilizing ligament that connects your thighbone to the shinbone. An ACL unravels like a braided rope when it’s torn and does not heal on its own. Fortunately, reconstruction surgery can help many people recover their full function after an ACL tear.
Ligaments are tough, non-stretchable fibers that hold your bones together. The cruciate ligaments in your knee joints crisscross to give you stability on your feet. People often tear the ACL by changing direction rapidly, slowing down from running or landing from a jump.
Injuries of this type should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will conduct physical tests and take X-rays to determine the extent of ACL damage. During ACL reconstruction surgery, the doctor replaces the damaged ACL with strong, healthy tissue taken from another area near your knee. In some cases the ACL can be repaired.
Successful ACL reconstruction surgery tightens your knee and restores its stability. It also helps you avoid further injury and get back to playing sports. After ACL reconstruction, you’ll need to do rehabilitation exercises to gradually return your knee to full flexibility and stability. Building strength in your thigh and calf muscles helps support the reconstructed structure.