What Is an ACL Tear?
An ACL tear is an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), one of the major ligaments that helps stabilize the knee joint. ACL injuries commonly occur during sports or activities involving sudden stopping, pivoting, jumping, or changes in direction.
The ACL plays a critical role in controlling knee movement and stability. When the ligament becomes stretched or torn, patients may experience pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty participating in physical activity.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained knee and sports medicine specialists provide advanced diagnosis and treatment options to help patients recover safely and return to the activities they enjoy.
Symptoms of an ACL Tear
- A popping sensation at the time of injury
- Sudden knee pain
- Rapid swelling of the knee joint
- Knee instability or buckling
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight
- Reduced range of motion
- Pain during twisting or pivoting movements
Causes & Risk Factors
ACL tears commonly occur during sports and physical activities that place sudden stress on the knee.
- Sudden pivoting or cutting movements
- Landing awkwardly from a jump
- Rapid deceleration or stopping
- Direct blows to the knee
- Sports such as soccer, basketball, football, and skiing
- Poor conditioning or muscle imbalance
- Previous knee injuries
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation of the knee and surrounding structures.
- Physical examination of the knee joint
- Assessment of stability and range of motion
- Review of symptoms and injury history
- X-rays to rule out fractures
- MRI imaging to evaluate ligament damage and associated injuries
Proper diagnosis is important because ACL tears may occur alongside meniscus tears, cartilage damage, or other ligament injuries.
Treatment Options for ACL Tears
Non-Surgical Treatment
Some ACL injuries can be managed without surgery depending on the severity of the tear, activity level, and stability of the knee. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
- Bracing for knee stability
- Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Activity modification
- Balance and mobility training
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended for complete ACL tears, persistent instability, or active individuals who want to return to sports or high-demand activities. ACL reconstruction surgery involves replacing the damaged ligament with a graft to restore knee stability. Our orthopedic surgeons use advanced minimally invasive techniques designed to support recovery and long-term knee function.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment approach used.
- Mild injuries may improve within weeks to months with rehabilitation
- Physical therapy is essential for restoring strength and mobility
- Recovery after ACL reconstruction may take several months
- Gradual return to sports and physical activity is important during healing
Our team works closely with patients throughout rehabilitation to help restore confidence, stability, and knee function while reducing reinjury risk.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our knee and sports medicine specialists provide advanced orthopedic care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for ACL injuries and other knee conditions.
- Experienced knee and sports medicine specialists
- Advanced imaging and ligament evaluation
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Minimally invasive ACL reconstruction techniques
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for an ACL tear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an ACL tear feel like?
Many patients experience a popping sensation followed by pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty walking after the injury.
Can an ACL tear heal without surgery?
Some partial tears or lower-demand patients may improve with rehabilitation, though complete tears often require surgery for long-term stability.
How long does recovery take after ACL surgery?
Recovery timelines vary, but many patients require several months of rehabilitation before returning to sports or unrestricted activity.
What sports commonly cause ACL tears?
ACL tears commonly occur in sports involving pivoting, jumping, cutting, or sudden directional changes such as soccer, basketball, football, and skiing.
When should I see a specialist?
If you experience knee swelling, instability, or a popping sensation after an injury, it is important to seek orthopedic evaluation promptly.