Does sports physiotherapy treat ACL tear?

An ACL tear affects knee stability and how the leg responds to turning, landing and slowing down. Physiotherapy may address swelling and movement first, then build quadriceps, hamstring and hip strength, balance and landing control. Rehabilitation may be used before surgery, after reconstruction or as part of a non-surgical plan. The right route depends on knee stability, associated injuries, activity goals and examination findings.

Arrange an orthopaedic or sports-medicine assessment after a twisting injury, a pop, swelling or repeated knee giving-way. Avoid pivoting and contact sport until your knee has been assessed. A physiotherapist can help maintain safe movement and strength while the treatment route is decided. Bring details of the injury, previous knee problems and the activities you want to return to.

Seek prompt care if the knee is locked, markedly swollen, unable to bear weight or repeatedly gives way. Urgent assessment is appropriate when the leg becomes numb, cold or unusually pale, or when severe pain follows a major injury. New calf swelling or breathlessness also needs immediate medical attention.

Ask whether the ACL appears fully or partly injured, whether other knee structures may be involved, and which activities are safe now. Discuss surgical and non-surgical options, the rehabilitation milestones, and how readiness for cutting or contact sport will be tested.