ACL reconstruction is surgery to replace a torn anterior cruciate (KROO-she-ate) ligament, a major ligament in the knee. ACL injuries most commonly occur during sports that involve sudden stops and changes in direction — such as basketball, soccer, football, downhill skiing and gymnastics.
In ACL reconstruction, the torn ligament is removed and replaced with a piece of tendon from another part of the knee or from a deceased donor. This surgery is an outpatient procedure that’s performed through small incisions around your knee joint.
Physiotherapy may successfully treat an ACL injury for individuals who are relatively inactive, engage in moderate exercise and recreational activities, or play sports that put less stress on the knees.

ACL reconstruction is generally recommended if
- An athlete and want to continue in sport, especially if the sport involves jumping, cutting or pivoting, more than one ligament or the meniscus in knee is injured.
Before your surgery the goal is to reduce pain and swelling, restore your knee’s full range of motion, and strengthen muscles. people who go into surgery with a stiff, swollen knee may not regain full range of motion after surgery.
Progressive physiotherapy after ACL surgery helps.
- To strengthen the muscles around knee and improve flexibility, will teach how to do exercises that will perform either with continued supervision or at home.
- Following the rehabilitation plan is important for proper healing and achieving the best possible outcomes.