Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus tears are two of the most common knee injuries, especially in active individuals and athletes. Surgical intervention is often required to restore knee stability, function, and comfort when these structures are significantly damaged.
However, the function of ligaments (ACL, MCL) and cartilage (meniscus) within the knee, as well as their treatments, differ in important ways.
What are the causes of ACL and meniscus tears?
ACL tears
The most common causes of ACL tears are related to sports and physical activities that put significant stress on the knee. Key causes include:
Sudden stops or changes in directions
Landing from jumps
Direct contact or trauma
Overuse and wear
Meniscus tears
Meniscus tears often occur due to:
Trauma or acute injury
Degenerative changes
Combination of injury and degeneration
In summary, both ACL and meniscus tears are frequently the result of high-impact sports activities or direct trauma, with additional risk factors including age-related degeneration
Symptoms of ACL and meniscus tears
ACL and meniscus tears often share similar symptoms, such as:
Knee pain , which may worsen with movement or weight-bearing
Swelling, either developing rapidly or gradually after the injury
Stiffness and reduced ability to fully bend or straighten the knee
A sensation of the knee “giving way” or feeling unstable
Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected leg
In addition, certain symptoms may help distinguish between the two injuries:
ACL tears are more likely to be accompanied by a sudden “pop” at the time of injury and immediate instability.
Meniscus tears may cause catching, locking, or a feeling that the knee is stuck and cannot move smoothly.
The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. If you experience any of these symptoms following a knee injury, it is important to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.
What are some treatments for ACL & meniscus tears?
The specific treatments for an ACL tear and a meniscus tear will vary based on the seriousness of the injury itself.
A minor and occasionally moderate meniscus tear can usually be treated with a combination of rest and pain medication.
Serious tears may require surgery, but non-surgical options such as physical therapy are often investigated first. Meniscus tear rehabilitation involves a comprehensive approach, including mobility and strengthening exercises. Although the recovery process can be lengthy, surgery is rarely necessary.
Physiotherapy is also sometimes used to help manage mobility and pain with ACL tears. However, ACL tears present a different challenge altogether. ACL tears often require surgery, particularly when they cause instability, limit mobility, or result in ongoing pain.
ACL Surgery
ACL reconstruction is the standard approach, as the ligament cannot heal on its own.
Most ACL reconstructive surgeries use a minimally invasive approach with very small incisions and special surgical instruments. During the procedure, the torn ligament is removed and replaced with a tendon graft.
The graft comes from another location in your knee or from a donor. Your surgeon will then make small holes in your thigh bone and shin bone, then anchor the tendon graft with screws or another type of surgical anchor. ACL reconstruction takes about two hours.
Meniscus Surgery
Most meniscus surgeries are performed using a minimally invasive technique called knee arthroscopy, which involves making very small incisions and using specialised instruments.
During the procedure, the surgeon examines the meniscus and decides whether to repair the tear with sutures or to trim and remove the damaged portion (a procedure known as a meniscectomy).
Repair is preferred whenever possible, as it preserves more of the meniscus and its shock-absorbing function. Meniscus surgery typically takes less than an hour, and patients can often go home the same day.
Recovering from ACL & meniscus surgery
Recovery from these surgeries is a gradual process that includes rest, physiotherapy, and a structured rehabilitation programme. The goal is to restore knee strength, flexibility, and function while minimising the risk of reinjury.
ACL surgery recovery
Physical therapy will begin soon after your surgery and continue throughout your recovery. It may take up to 9-12 months after surgery to fully recover and return to competitive sports that require quick changes in direction. Adhering to the rehabilitation plan is crucial for optimal outcomes and reducing the risk of further injury.
Meniscus surgery recovery
Recovery after meniscus surgery usually involves starting physiotherapy within days of the procedure to restore knee movement and strength.
The length of recovery depends on whether the meniscus was repaired or partially removed; meniscus repairs generally require a longer period of restricted activity, sometimes several months, to allow proper healing.
Most people can return to normal daily activities within a few weeks, but returning to high-impact sports may take several months. Following your rehabilitation plan closely is essential to ensure the best possible outcome and to help prevent future knee problems.
FAQ
Is ACL and meniscus surgery a major surgery?
While ACL and meniscus surgeries are commonly performed using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, they are still considered significant orthopaedic procedures due to the complexity of the knee joint and the importance of post-operative rehabilitation.
Can you have ACL and meniscus surgery at the same time?
Yes, it is common to address both ACL and meniscus injuries in a single surgical session if both are present, which can improve overall recovery and reduce the need for multiple procedures.
How long does it take to recover from ACL and meniscus surgery?
Recovery time varies, but most patients require six to nine months to fully recover from combined ACL and meniscus surgery, especially if returning to sports or physically demanding activities.
What happens if you tear both your ACL and meniscus?
If both structures are torn, surgical repair or reconstruction of both may be recommended to restore knee stability and function and to reduce the risk of long-term complications such as arthritis.
Does meniscus surgery lead to knee replacement?
Meniscus surgery does not directly lead to knee replacement. However, removal of large portions of the meniscus can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis over time, which may eventually necessitate knee replacement in some cases.
Can you walk after meniscus and ACL surgery?
You'll need crutches for at least a few weeks to take stress off your knee while you're standing and moving. Once you can walk without crutches, it'll be a few more weeks before you can do light activities without support. It might be a few months before your surgeon clears you to resume intense physical activities.
The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.