ACL Tear
A plain-language overview of anterior cruciate ligament tear.
At a glance
- Where
- Knee (ligament)
- Common signs
- Pop, swelling, giving way
- Options
- Rehab or ACL reconstruction
- Urgent?
- Severe pain, deformity, or numbness: seek care promptly.
For general education, not medical advice. Your own surgeon will recommend what fits your situation.
What it is
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a key ligament in the middle of the knee that keeps it stable during cutting, pivoting, and jumping.
Common symptoms
- A pop at the time of injury
- Rapid swelling
- A feeling that the knee gives way
Treatment overview
Treatment ranges from structured rehabilitation to ACL reconstruction, depending on knee stability, other injuries, and activity goals. Dr. Gee's published work includes ACL repair, graft choice, and fixation techniques; see Research.
Your own surgeon will recommend what fits your situation. See Surgery & Recovery.