15/11/2025
The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is one of the major ligaments in the knee that helps stabilize the joint by preventing the tibia (shin bone) from sliding too far forward relative to the femur (thigh bone) and controlling rotational movements.
An ACL tear typically occurs during sudden pivoting, cutting, landing from a jump, or a direct impact to the knee, often resulting in a popping sound at the time of injury. The most common mechanism involves rapid changes in direction, abrupt stops while running, or overextending the knee joint see in sports like soccer, basketball, football, and skiing.
Female athletes are at a significantly higher risk of ACL injury—two to eight times more likely than males in sports involving cutting and jumping—due to differences in anatomy, neuromuscular control, hormonal factors.
Surgical reconstruction is often recommended for athletes or those with high physical demands, especially with a complete tear. Surgery typically involves replacing the torn ligament with a tendon graft, either from the patient’s own body or a donor, and is generally delayed until inflammation has subsided. Recovery from surgery usually takes six to nine months, involving a structured rehabilitation program to restore strength and function
