A member asked:

I have a torn acl, i have no pain, i can squat, jump, run and climb. i want to play soccer. if i strengthen my knee through gym can i avoid surgery?

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Christopher Dougherty answered

Specializes in Orthopedic Surgery

ACL tear: The acl is the main ligament that keeps your shin bone from sliding out from under your thigh bone. There are people who can function without one but not usually playing a sport like soccer. The greatest risk is that you will go on to tear your meniscus and other cartilage and cause greater damage to your knee. I do not advise my patients to play soccer without a reconstruction.

Answered 4/9/2015

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Dr. Scott Graham answered

Specializes in Orthopedic Surgery

Yes but be careful: The acl is not needed for inline activities; it is needed for twisting/turning/changing directions. The symptoms of recurring instability, like you don't trust the knee or it gives out, is the indication for surgery. If the knee continues to give out over time, other structures will be damaged, like the meniscus, and the risk of arthritis increases. I would not suggest returning to soccer.

Answered 2/24/2018

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