A knee ligament tear is a common injury that often occurs during sports or sudden movements. The ACL is the ligament most frequently affected, but other ligaments in the knee can also be torn. Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment may range from rest and physiotherapy to surgical reconstruction. Most people recover well with the right care and are able to return to their normal activities. Recovery time can vary, but many moderate to severe ligament tears take several months to heal completely.
A knee ligament tear is an injury to one or more of the strong, fibrous bands that connect the bones in your knee joint. These ligaments keep the knee stable and allow smooth movement. When one of them stretches beyond its limit or tears due to sudden force, it results in a knee ligament tear. This injury can affect any of the four major ligaments in the knee: the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), PCL (posterior cruciate ligament), MCL (medial collateral ligament) or LCL (lateral collateral ligament). A ligament tear in the knee can range from a mild sprain to a complete rupture.
Knee ligament tears usually occur due to sudden movements or impact. Common causes include:
Athletes who play football, basketball or other high-impact sports have a higher risk of knee joint ligament tears. However, these injuries can also happen during everyday activities.
Symptoms vary depending on the ligament affected and the severity of the tear. Common symptoms include:
Right and left knee ligament tears show similar symptoms, although discomfort may differ based on leg dominance.
Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging tests. A doctor may:
MRI is the most accurate method for visualising ligament injuries.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the tear.
Physiotherapy is essential for strengthening and restoring knee stability. Your physiotherapist may recommend:
These exercises help speed up healing and prevent future injuries.
Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers may be used to reduce discomfort and swelling.
Surgery may be required for severe ligament tears, especially complete ACL or PCL injuries. Ligament reconstruction often uses a graft taken from your own tissue or a donor. Surgery is typically recommended when:
Recovery depends on the ligament involved and the treatment method. Mild sprains may heal within a few weeks, while more severe tears can take several months. After surgical reconstruction, full recovery usually takes 6–12 months. Consistent physiotherapy is crucial for regaining strength and function.
CMRI Hospital, Kolkata offers comprehensive and specialised care for knee ligament injuries. Benefits include:
Whether your injury is mild or severe, CMRI Hospital provides expert care to help you return safely to your normal activities.
ACL and MCL tears are the most common due to sudden twists, falls or sports impacts.
Strengthening leg muscles, improving balance and using proper sports techniques help reduce the risk.
Recovery ranges from a few weeks for mild tears to several months for severe or surgical tears.
Partial tears and many MCL or LCL injuries can heal with rest and physiotherapy. Complete ACL tears often require surgery for active individuals.
Most people return to sports in 3–9 months, depending on the injury and treatment.
If untreated, ligament tears may lead to chronic instability and increase the risk of early arthritis.
Many partial tears improve significantly with structured physiotherapy.
Tears often cause a popping sound, swelling and instability, while strains cause milder pain and stiffness.
© 2024 CMRI Kolkata. All Rights Reserved.
