Can the ACL heal on its own?

In years past, it was believed that the ACL could not heal on its own due to poor blood supply. However in recent years, new research suggests that the ACL can in fact heal. That being said, more research needs to be done to determine what specific factors may predispose someone to an ACL that can heal on its own.
What is the practical takeaway? Hopefully this encourages people to take some time to evaluate their specific situation. Is everyone suitable for non-surgical, conservative management of an ACL injury? No, but similarly not everyone needs to rush into getting a major surgery.
IF you fit specific criteria (25 years and older, not looking to return to high cutting/pivoting sports, and have good functional outcomes/no repeated episodes of instability), then going the conservative route for a few months and re-evaluating how your knee feels may be a good option. You may find that your knee is not only functional enough to do all the things you want, but your ACL may have started to heal on its own.
If after a few months of dedicated rehab you find that your knee isn’t where you want, you can still elect to get surgery and will be in a better place after surgery because of the months of dedicated rehab you’ve done prior.
Have you injured your ACL but want to explore conservative management? Book a free Discovery Call with us today to see how we can help.
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