An ACL tear (anterior cruciate ligament tear) is a serious knee injury that can cause instability, pain, and loss of confidence during movement. The ACL is a key ligament that stabilizes the knee during pivoting, cutting, and sudden changes in direction. When torn, especially in active individuals, ACL tear surgery is often recommended to restore knee strength, stability, and long-term joint health.
Our practice provides expert ACL tear diagnosis and ACL reconstruction surgery performed by board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons with extensive experience treating sports and activity-related knee injuries.
What Is an ACL Tear?
The anterior cruciate ligament connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) and helps control knee rotation and forward movement. ACL tears commonly occur during sports or activities that involve:
- Sudden stops or direction changes
- Jumping and landing incorrectly
- Twisting injuries
- Direct contact to the knee
ACL injuries are common in athletes but can affect anyone with an active lifestyle.
Symptoms of an ACL Tear
Common signs of an ACL injury include:
- A “popping” sensation at the time of injury
- Immediate swelling of the knee
- Knee instability or giving way
- Pain with walking or pivoting
- Limited range of motion
Prompt evaluation is important to prevent additional cartilage or meniscus damage.
Diagnosing ACL Injuries
Our specialists perform a comprehensive knee examination and use advanced imaging, such as X-rays and MRI, to confirm the diagnosis and assess associated injuries. Accurate diagnosis allows for an individualized treatment plan based on your activity level, goals, and knee health.
Non-Surgical vs. Surgical Treatment for ACL Tears
Some patients with low activity demands may manage an ACL tear with non-surgical treatment, including:
- Physical therapy
- Activity modification
- Bracing
However, ACL tear surgery is often recommended for:
- Athletes or active individuals
- Patients with knee instability
- Combined injuries (meniscus or cartilage damage)
- Those wishing to return to sports or demanding activities
What Is ACL Tear Surgery?
ACL reconstruction surgery involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft (often from the patient’s own tissue or a donor graft). The procedure is typically performed using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, allowing precise reconstruction with smaller incisions and faster recovery.
Benefits of ACL Reconstruction Surgery
- Restored knee stability
- Reduced risk of further knee damage
- Improved confidence with movement
- Return to sports and active lifestyles
- Long-term joint protection
Recovery and Rehabilitation After ACL Surgery
Recovery after ACL surgery is a structured process that includes:
- Early swelling and pain management
- Progressive physical therapy
- Strength, balance, and agility training
- Gradual return to sports and activities
Most patients return to full activity within 6–12 months, depending on sport demands and rehabilitation progress.
ACL Tear Surgery in Dallas–Fort Worth
We proudly provide ACL tear surgery and knee ligament care throughout North Texas, with convenient locations in:
- Dallas
- Plano
- Fort Worth
- Weatherford
- Keller
No matter which location you visit, you’ll receive expert care from board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons dedicated to helping you return to an active, confident life.
Schedule an ACL Tear Evaluation
If knee pain or instability is limiting your ability to stay active, early evaluation and expert care can make a meaningful difference in recovery and long-term outcomes.
Contact us today to schedule an ACL tear evaluation and learn more about ACL reconstruction surgery.
ACL TEAR SURGERY Q&A
What Are The Symptoms?
Symptoms of a torn ACL include:
- A popping sound or sensation in the knee
- Hyperextension of the knee (the knee is able to bend backward)
- Severe Pain
- Swelling
- Instability of the knee (the knee feels like it “shifts” or is loose)
If you experience any of these symptoms, please visit a doctor right away. Your doctor can diagnose a torn ACL through the use of x-rays, physical examination, and MRI.
Your Options for ACL Surgery
A torn ACL reconstruction is typically performed as an outpatient surgery. A tendon from around the patient’s knee or a donor tendon is used to reconstruct/make a new ACL to replace the torn ligament. This is the most common treatment for tears to the ACL. The most common ACL surgery risks are similar to those of most outpatient surgeries and typically include infection, stiffness, and pain.
Physically therapy will be required to help the patient regain movement, strength, and balance. The skilled team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates specializes in torn ACL surgery as well as ACL physical therapy. Please call us today to speak with us about surgery and recovery options.