An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is one of the most common and significant knee injuries, particularly among athletes and individuals involved in high-impact activities. The ACL plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee joint, and when it is injured, patients often experience pain, instability, and difficulty returning to normal physical activity. Understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and recovery timeline is essential for effective rehabilitation.

The most common symptoms of an ACL injury include a sudden “popping” sound at the time of injury, immediate swelling, knee instability, and pain when bearing weight. In many cases, patients report difficulty with movements that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, or jumping.

Treatment for an ACL injury depends on the severity of the damage and the patient’s activity level. Some partial tears can be managed with structured physiotherapy, focusing on reducing swelling, restoring mobility, strengthening the surrounding muscles, and improving stability. For complete tears, surgery may be recommended, followed by an intensive rehabilitation program. In both cases, physiotherapy plays a central role in guiding safe and progressive recovery.

At Revive Physiotherapy Center, we provide evidence-based rehabilitation programs tailored to each patient’s condition and goals. Our approach combines manual therapy, strengthening exercises, and neuromuscular training to restore knee stability and function. Through our partnership with the Sports Doctors Network, we integrate medical expertise into the treatment process, ensuring comprehensive care for athletes and non-athletes alike.

The recovery timeline for an ACL injury varies depending on the severity of the injury and whether surgery is required. Non-surgical cases may require several months of rehabilitation, while surgical recovery often takes 9 to 12 months before a safe return to sports. Regardless of the pathway, consistent physiotherapy is key to achieving full function and reducing the risk of re-injury.

At Revive, our commitment is to support patients every step of the way, providing the knowledge, treatment, and guidance needed to return to an active and confident lifestyle.