Knee Condition

ACL Tear

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury:
Information & Treatment

A torn anterior cruciate ligament is one of the most common — and most treatable — serious knee injuries in sport. Here is what it means, and what your options are.

Dr. Yousef Muhammad

German Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon | Sports Medicine | Arthroscopy | Joint Replacement

German Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon
DKG Certified Knee Surgeon
AGA Certified Arthroscopic Surgeon
GOTS Certified Sports Physician
FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine
International Experience (Germany & Middle East)
Former Chief of Orthopaedic Surgery (Germany)
14+ Years of Experience

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The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four main ligaments that stabilise your knee. It runs diagonally through the centre of the joint and stops the shin bone (tibia) from sliding forward past the thigh bone (femur), while controlling rotation.

Knee anatomy diagram

1. Anatomy (Knee Diagram)

A partial or complete tear of the ACL usually occurs during sudden stops, changes of direction, jumping or landing.

Arthroscopic view

2. Intra-operative Arthroscopic View

This is what an ACL tear looks like during arthroscopy. We use keyhole surgery to accurately diagnose and treat the injury.

MRI scan

3. Typical MRI Findings

MRI helps confirm the diagnosis and assess associated injuries such as meniscus tears or cartilage damage.

Reconstruction

4. ACL Reconstruction (Surgical Technique)

Minimally invasive arthroscopic technique using a tendon graft to restore knee stability and function.

Rehabilitation

5. Recovery & Rehabilitation

Structured physiotherapy and a graded return to sport are key for a safe and successful recovery.

“ Clinical Note from Dr. Yousef Muhammad

Not every ACL tear requires immediate surgery. The decision depends on age, activity level, knee stability, associated injuries, and the patient’s goals. Each treatment plan should be individualised to achieve the best possible outcome and return to the activities you love.

Dr. Yousef Muhammad

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an ACL tear heal without surgery?

A torn ACL does not heal back together on its own. For lower-demand patients or partial tears, a structured rehabilitation programme can restore strength and stability without surgery. For athletes and unstable knees, reconstruction is usually the more reliable route.

When can I return to sport after ACL surgery?

Return to pivoting sport typically takes 9–12 months. It is criteria-based — guided by strength and movement testing rather than the calendar alone — to minimise the risk of re-injury.

Do I need an MRI to diagnose an ACL tear?

A careful clinical examination is often enough to strongly suspect a tear. An MRI confirms it, shows whether it is partial or complete, and reveals associated meniscus or cartilage injuries that shape the treatment plan.

What is the best graft choice for ACL reconstruction?

There is no single best graft for everyone. Hamstring, quadriceps and patellar-tendon grafts each have advantages; the choice is individualised to your anatomy, sport and goals, and discussed with you before surgery.

Will I be able to return to my previous level of activity?

The large majority of patients return to the activities they love. Outcomes are best with a precise diagnosis of the whole knee, a well-performed reconstruction where needed, and a committed rehabilitation programme.

Note: This information is for general education only and should not replace a consultation with your doctor.