Knee injuries are frustrating and can sometimes make even simple movements difficult. If you’ve hurt your knee recently and it’s not improving, it might be time to consider whether ACL reconstruction surgery is necessary. Here are five signs to watch for that could indicate a tear in your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

1. Ongoing Instability in the Knee

One clear sign of an ACL tear is a feeling that your knee isn’t stable. If your leg gives way while walking or standing, this could mean the ligament isn’t doing its job. Stability is crucial for everyday activities, so this symptom shouldn’t be ignored. A knee specialist in Melbourne can assess whether surgery might help.

2. Persistent Swelling

Swelling immediately after a knee injury is common, but it usually goes down within a few days. When swelling continues or returns after activity, it could point to something more serious, like an ACL tear. This type of swelling is often caused by internal bleeding in the joint. It’s a good idea to have it checked out by an orthopaedic surgeon to avoid further damage.

3. Reduced Range of Motion

Struggling to bend or straighten your knee fully can be a sign of an ACL knee injury. Loss of flexibility can make everyday tasks challenging and lead to stiffness if not treated promptly. Consulting a specialist can help determine the severity of the injury and whether surgery is the right option.

4. Pain During Movement

Pain that lingers or flares up during specific movements, like twisting or changing direction, is another sign of an ACL knee injury. While rest and rehabilitation can manage minor injuries, ongoing discomfort may require more advanced treatment, such as ACL reconstruction surgery, to restore function.

5. A "Pop" at the Time of Injury

Hearing or feeling a "pop" when the injury happened is often linked to ACL tears. This is usually followed by swelling, pain, and difficulty walking. If this happened to you, seeking medical advice early can improve your chances of a full recovery.

Why It’s Important to Seek Help

Ignoring signs of an ACL tear can lead to long-term complications that significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. Instability in the knee can make daily activities like walking or climbing stairs more challenging, while untreated injuries increase the risk of further damage to the joint, such as cartilage wear or arthritis. 

Over time, this can result in chronic pain and decreased function, potentially requiring more extensive treatment than if the issue was addressed early. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing these outcomes, allowing you to regain stability, reduce pain, and protect the long-term health of your knee. Whether your recovery involves surgery or a non-surgical approach, seeking timely care from a knee specialist in Melbourne ensures you receive a personalised plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.

What to Do Next

If these signs of an ACL tear sound familiar, don’t wait to seek advice. An orthopaedic surgeon can assess your knee and help you decide whether surgery or another treatment is the best choice for your recovery.