ACL Injuries – Symptoms, Surgery & Return to Sports Timeline|By Dr. Kashyap Solanki

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is a vital ligament in the knee that helps maintain stability during movement. ACL injuries are common in athletes involved in sports that require sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are essential to restore knee function and prevent long-term complications.

Symptoms of ACL Injury

• A “popping” sensation or sound in the knee: Many patients report hearing or feeling a pop at the moment of injury.

• Severe pain and swelling: Swelling usually develops within hours due to bleeding inside the joint.

• Instability or “giving way”: The knee may feel unstable or buckle under weight-bearing activities.

• Loss of range of motion: Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee.

• Tenderness and discomfort: Especially around the knee joint line.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis starts with a detailed history and physical examination, including tests like the Lachman test, pivot shift test, and anterior drawer test. MRI is the gold standard for confirming ACL tears and evaluating associated injuries to ligaments, cartilage, or menisci.

Surgery for ACL Injury

Surgical reconstruction is usually recommended for active individuals, especially athletes, to restore knee stability. Surgery involves replacing the torn ligament with a tissue graft from the patient or a donor. Postoperative rehabilitation is crucial for regaining strength, flexibility, and function.

Return to Sports Timeline

Recovery from ACL surgery is a gradual process, typically requiring:

• 0-2 weeks: Knee swelling reduction, gentle range of motion exercises.

• 3-6 weeks: Weight-bearing as tolerated, muscle strengthening begins.

• 3-6 months: Progressive exercises enhance strength, balance, and agility.

• 6-9 months: Most patients return to non-contact sports, under guidance.

• 9-12 months: Return to full sports activity, including high-demand and contact sports, after achieving adequate strength and stability.

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About Dr. Kashyap Prabhu Solanki & Dr. Prabhu Solanki

Orthopaedic Surgeon – Andheri, Mumbai

Dr. Kashyap Solanki specializes in hip and knee replacement, robotic-assisted knee surgery, and joint preservation procedures like HTO, arthroscopy, and ligament reconstruction. He is also known for performing complex revision joint replacements and managing challenging upper and lower limb fractures. With a focus on precision and patient-centered care, Dr. Solanki helps restore mobility and improve quality of life through advanced orthopaedic solutions.

With over four decades of distinguished orthopaedic practice, Dr. Prabhu Solanki stands as one of Mumbai’s most experienced and respected orthopaedic surgeons. Having treated more than 40,000 patients and performed over 10,000 surgeries, his clinical outcomes and dedication have earned him widespread recognition — not just in Mumbai, but across India and abroad.

Dr. Solanki’s reputation for precision, ethical care, and long-term results has brought him patients from all over India, as well as international patients seeking high-quality orthopaedic treatment and surgical expertise in Mumbai.

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