An ACL tear is one of the most common and frustrating knee injuries for athletes and active individuals. Whether you twisted your knee on the field or felt a sudden pop during a workout, knowing your treatment options and recovery path is key to getting back to what you love.
At the Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies (OCR), our board-certified orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine specialists offer advanced ACL tear treatment options tailored to your activity level, goals, and long-term knee health.
What Is an ACL Tear?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four main ligaments in the knee joint. It connects the thighbone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia) and helps stabilize the knee—particularly during activities involving pivoting, sudden stops, or changes in direction.
An ACL tear occurs when the ligament is overstretched or torn, either partially or completely. This often happens during sports that involve cutting or jumping movements. Tears are graded by severity and are usually diagnosed through a combination of a physical exam, patient history, and imaging such as an MRI.
Signs of an ACL tear include:
- A popping sound or sensation at injury
- Rapid swelling within 24 hours
- Knee instability or “giving way”
- Pain during twisting or pivoting movements
Does an ACL Tear Always Require Surgery?
No, not all ACL injuries require reconstruction. For less active patients or partial tears, non-surgical ACL treatment can be effective.
OCR offers:
- Customized physical therapy programs
- Bracing for knee support
- Guidance on activity modifications
Our PM&R specialists (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation) are also available to manage pain, optimize function, and support conservative recovery strategies.
When Is ACL Reconstruction the Best Choice?
If you’re hoping to return to sports that require cutting or pivoting (like soccer, skiing, or basketball), surgical treatment is often the most reliable path.
ACL reconstruction involves replacing the torn ligament with a tendon graft. Reconstruction is highly successful for restoring knee stability.
At OCR, our ACL surgeries are:
- Performed by fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons
- Done using minimally invasive techniques
- Supported by in-house physical therapy and follow-up
ACL Recovery: What to Expect
Whether your treatment is surgical or non-surgical, structured rehabilitation is key.
Your OCR care team will monitor your progress closely throughout rehabilitation. We conduct regular evaluations to assess strength, movement patterns, knee stability, and function before clearing you for high-risk activities.
OCR supports patients through:
- Personalized therapy sessions
- Sports-specific rehab protocols
- Return-to-play testing to reduce re-injury risk
Return to Sport After ACL Tear
One of the most common questions we hear is: “When can I play again?” and the answer? It Depends. It depends on your body, sport, and commitment to rehab. According to the Mayo Clinic, recent research indicates that up to one-third of athletes may sustain another ACL tear in either the same or opposite knee within two years. Extending the recovery timeline may reduce this risk significantly but every body is different and therefore recovers differently.
Our physicians use return-to-sport testing and evidence-based guidelines to minimize the risk of re-injury.
Why Choose OCR for ACL Tear Treatment in Colorado?
As the trusted orthopedic care provider for CSU, the Colorado Eagles, and dozens of regional high schools, the Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies brings elite-level care to patients of all ages and activity levels. Our advantages include:
- Board-certified, fellowship-trained knee surgeons
- On-site imaging, surgery centers, and physical therapy
- Coordinated care teams focused on long-term joint health
Whether you’re navigating a first-time injury or considering revision surgery, we’re here to guide your recovery and help you move forward with confidence.
Take the Next Step
If you’re dealing with knee pain or instability after an ACL injury, don’t wait. Early evaluation leads to better outcomes.
Request an appointment with a knee specialist at Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies to start your personalized treatment plan.