What is a acl tear?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) runs through the middle of the knee and stops the shin bone sliding forward. Without it, the knee can feel fine walking in a straight line but gives way when you turn, cut or land.
How it happens in sport
- Changing direction suddenly with the foot planted
- Stopping suddenly from a run
- Landing awkwardly from a jump
- A direct blow to the side of the knee
Common in: Football, basketball, badminton, kabaddi, cricket fielding, skiing.
Symptoms
- A pop at the moment of injury
- Swelling within a few hours
- Pain, and trouble putting weight on the leg
- The knee feeling loose or giving way
- Not being able to straighten or bend the knee fully
How it's diagnosed
The surgeon examines the knee and tests its stability. An MRI confirms the tear and shows any damage to the meniscus or cartilage. If you need one, we book it.
Do I need surgery?
If you want to return to sports that involve turning, jumping or contact, reconstruction is usually advised, because a knee without an ACL tends to keep giving way and damaging the meniscus and cartilage. Partial tears, and people who don't play pivoting sports, may do well with rehab alone. Your surgeon will tell you honestly which applies to you.
Treatment options
- Rehab first. Bring the swelling down and get the knee moving fully before any surgery. This makes recovery faster.
- ACL reconstruction. Keyhole surgery replaces the torn ligament with a graft, usually from your own hamstring or knee tendon.
- Structured rehab. Months of staged rehab rebuild strength, balance and confidence. It matters as much as the surgery.
Recovery timeline
- Days 1–2Walking with support; physiotherapy starts
- Weeks 2–6Walking normally, bending the knee fully, building strength
- Months 3–4Jogging and straight-line running
- Months 5–8Jumping, landing and changing direction; sport-specific drills
- Months 9–12Return to sport after passing a return-to-play check
Typical times. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will set yours.
Return to play at Recover
The last stage happens on a sports floor: sprinting, cutting, landing and, for cricketers, batting, bowling and fielding in our nets. You're cleared when you pass strength and movement tests, not on a date.
Cost and insurance in Gurugram
ACL reconstruction in Gurugram usually costs ₹1.5 – 2.5 lakh, including the hospital stay. Most health insurance covers it; we check your policy. You get your exact quote in writing after the consultation.
Surgeons who treat this
- Dr Pranshul Bishnoi
MBBS · DNB (Orthopaedics) · ATLS · FIFA Diploma in Sports Medicine
- Dr Chandan Arora
MBBS · MS (Orthopaedics) · Shoulder Fellowship (Seoul)
ACL tear: FAQs
Can I walk with a torn ACL?
Often, yes. Many people can walk in a straight line within days. The problem is turning, stopping and landing, where the knee gives way. Walking doesn't mean the ligament has healed.
Can a torn ACL heal on its own?
A completely torn ACL doesn't grow back together. The swelling settles and the muscles can compensate, which is why some less active people manage without surgery. Partial tears can do well with rehab.
When can I play sport again after ACL surgery?
Usually 9 to 12 months after reconstruction. Going back earlier increases the chance of tearing it again, so we clear you on tests, not on a date.
How long does ACL rehab take?
Rehab starts a day or two after surgery and continues for 9 to 12 months, with the intensity rising stage by stage.
When can I drive after ACL surgery?
Usually 2 to 6 weeks, depending on which knee was operated on and whether your car is automatic. Your surgeon will advise.
How much does ACL surgery cost in Gurugram?
Usually ₹1.5 – 2.5 lakh at a private hospital, including the stay. Your exact price comes in writing after the consultation.
Is ACL surgery covered by insurance?
Most health insurance policies cover ACL reconstruction. Our partner hospital is cashless with most insurers, and we check your policy for you.
Should I see a surgeon or a physio first?
See a surgeon first to confirm the diagnosis. The consultation is free with us, and rehab can start straight after.
Can I re-tear my ACL?
Yes, which is why the final stage of rehab and the return-to-play check matter. Most re-tears happen when people go back too early.
Can I come from abroad for ACL surgery?
Yes. We coordinate a video consultation before you travel, surgery in Gurugram and supervised rehab before you fly home.
General information, not medical advice. Your surgeon will advise on your own treatment. If you can't put weight on a limb, or have numbness or severe pain, go to an emergency department.