ACL Tear : Do You Need Surgery or Can It Heal on Its Own?
1 month ago
I have an ACL tear in my knee but I can still walk. Do I need surgery or will it heal with time?
Answers (1)
Based on your reports and symptoms, it appears that you have a complete ACL tear. While you may still be able to walk normally, this is because other structures like the MCL may have healed and are providing some support. However, it’s important to understand that the ACL does not heal on its own because of its location inside the joint.
In many cases, patients can manage daily activities without immediate surgery, but issues like instability, occasional sprains, or difficulty in running and sudden movements indicate that the ligament is not functioning properly. Over time, this instability can lead to further damage, especially to the meniscus, and may increase the risk of early knee degeneration.
The recommended treatment in such cases is arthroscopic ACL reconstruction, which is a minimally invasive (keyhole) surgery. It is a commonly performed and safe procedure, usually requiring a short hospital stay of about a day, and patients can resume basic activities within a few days.
If you are still unsure, getting a repeat MRI or a proper clinical examination can help confirm the diagnosis. However, if the tear is complete and symptoms persist, surgery is generally the best option to restore knee stability and prevent long-term complications.
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