General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
After a diagnosed anterior cruciate ligament tear, surgery is not automatic. The decision considers knee instability, your activities, age and other injuries found during assessment.
Medical assessment identifies affected ligaments and associated injuries. MRI may help examine ligaments, cartilage and menisci; describe episodes when the knee gives way.
Medical treatment may suffice for some severe sprains or precede surgery. Rehabilitation aims to restore knee movement, strength and function, following your team's instructions.
If ligament reconstruction is discussed, ask which findings support that choice for you. Surgery often takes place some time after injury, once pain and swelling have improved.
After surgery, seek care for fever, increasing pain at rest, a red or hot knee, wound problems or a painful or swollen calf. Bear weight only as authorised by your surgeon.
Prepare the decision around concrete goals: work, travel and your intended sport. Clarify exercises between sessions, prohibited movements and return conditions before changing your programme.
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