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“ACL tears” and “surgery” are terms you often hear in the same sentence.
But, with new research constantly coming out, there’s strong evidence that not nearly as many ACL tears need surgery as there currently is…
That begs the question: how long does an ACL tear take to heal without surgery?
We’ll dive into everything you need to know about ACL tears and how you can fix them with non-surgical treatments.
Let’s jump in!
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What Is An ACL Tear?
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of the key ligaments that help stabilize your knee joint.
ACL injuries are common among athletes but can occur in anyone, and often happen during sports that involve sudden stops or changes in direction, jumping, and landing.
An ACL tear is a significant injury that can cause knee pain, swelling, and instability.
These symptoms can make it difficult to perform everyday activities such as walking or climbing stairs.
Understanding the nature of an ACL tear is very important for deciding on the appropriate treatment method.
What Are the Different Types of ACL Tears?
ACL injuries can vary quite a bit in severity, generally categorized into three types:
- Grade I Sprain: This is a mild injury where the ligament is slightly stretched but still able to help keep the knee joint stable.
- Grade II Sprain: Often referred to as a partial tear, the ACL is stretched to the point where it becomes loose.
- Grade III Sprain: This is a complete tear of the ligament. The ACL has been split into two pieces, and the knee joint is unstable.
Each type of tear has its own implications for treatment and healing, so professional guidance is key.
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Do ACL Tears Require Surgery?
Not all ACL tears require surgery.
The need for surgery depends on several factors including the severity of the tear, the patient’s lifestyle, and their age.
For example, a young athlete involved in high-demand sports might need surgery to safely return to sport. On the other hand, an older adult who leads a less active lifestyle might manage their injury through non-surgical means.
It’s not necessarily that black and white – athletes can manage their ACL tears without surgery in many cases as well.
At Orthobiologics Associates, we assess each patient’s unique situation to recommend the best treatment options.
Our focus is on providing minimally invasive therapies that enhance the body’s natural healing process to avoid the risks and long rehab times of surgery.
Non-Surgical ACL Tear Treatments
For those opting for non-surgical treatment or those not suitable for surgery, several effective options are available:
- Physical Therapy: Tailored exercise programs can help strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve its stability, and promote healing.
- Bracing: Wearing a knee brace can help stabilize the knee and prevent further injury. Early bracing is often a key factor in healing ACL tears.
- PRP Therapy: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves injecting concentrated platelets from your blood into the injured ACL to stimulate healing.
- Stem Cell Therapy for Knees: Utilizing stem cells extracted from your bone marrow or fat tissue can help in regenerating damaged ACL tissue. This is similar to stem cell therapy for back pain.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Adjusting activity levels and incorporating low-impact exercises can help reduce strain on the ACL and promote recovery.
These treatments are part of the comprehensive care approach at Orthobiologics Associates, where we use advanced technologies to treat and manage ACL injuries effectively.
How Long Does An ACL Tear Take to Heal Without Surgery?
The healing time for an ACL tear without surgery can vary widely depending on the injury’s severity, the treatment approach, and the individual’s overall health.
Generally, complete recovery can take anywhere from several months to a year.
Here’s a typical timeline:
- Initial Phase (1-4 weeks): Focus on reducing swelling and pain while bracing the knee, gradually moving on from the knee bracing once cleared by a physician.
- Middle Phase (5-12 weeks): Graduated physical therapy exercises to restore strength, mobility, and flexibility.
- Late Phase (3-6 months): Continued strengthening exercises and gradual return to more strenuous activities as tolerated.
It’s important to note that each person’s recovery will be different, and the timeline above can vary a lot as well as include multiple more phases.
Our team works closely with each patient to personalize treatment plans that optimize your healing processes and help you return to your daily activities safely and effectively.
Where Can I Get Non-Surgical ACL Treatment?
Orthobiologics Associates offers effective non-surgical ACL tear treatment.
Using detailed assessments, we’ll determine your best course of action for healing your ACL tear.
We’ll create a tailored recovery program for you, utilizing all our services to get you up-and-moving as if the tear never happened!
TALK TO A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL
Conclusion
ACL injuries are a significant concern, especially for athletes and active individuals.
While surgery is often recommended, especially for complete tears, many cases can be effectively managed with non-surgical treatments.
Understanding the nature of the injury, exploring all treatment options, and committing to a personalized treatment plan are crucial steps toward a successful recovery.
At Orthobiologics Associates, we are committed to leveraging our expertise in orthobiologics to provide treatments that not only address the symptoms but also promote long-term healing and well-being.
Whether you are dealing with an ACL injury or other condition, our team is here to support your journey to recovery with cutting-edge, patient-centered care.
FAQs
Can ACL fully heal without surgery?
An ACL injury can heal without surgery through the use of regenerative treatments. This may depend on the extent of damage. Contact us to see how we can help!
Is it OK to leave a torn ACL?
It is possible to leave a torn ACL untreated if the individual leads a sedentary lifestyle or performs activities that don’t involve significant knee stress. However, for active individuals or athletes, treatment is recommended to prevent further joint damage and improve functionality.
Can I bend my knee with a torn ACL?
Yes, you can bend your knee with a torn ACL, but you might experience pain, swelling, or instability depending on the severity of the tear and your overall knee condition. ACL tears are typically braced and locked initially.
Can I walk with a torn ACL?
Many people are able to walk with a torn ACL, especially with the help of a knee brace or other supportive measures. However, the knee may feel unstable and it is important to avoid sudden movements or activities that could worsen the injury.
How to tell if an ACL is torn or sprained?
To differentiate between a torn ACL and a sprain, medical professionals use physical exams, symptoms assessment, and imaging tests like MRI. Symptoms of a torn ACL include a popping noise at the time of injury, severe pain, rapid swelling, and a feeling of instability when bearing weight.
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