Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries: Patient Education from University of Colorado Hospital

Living with an ACL Injury

Your ACL injury may require surgery. Regaining the strength in the knee requires both patience and a commitment to recovery. Full recovery may take up to one year. You can expect to participate in formal therapy once or twice a week during the recovery period. However, you will also be given exercises to do on your own. It is important that you do the exercises regularly.

You may experience setbacks during rehabilitation such as

• Prolonged pain
• Swelling
• A feeling that your knee is not getting better

Be sure to inform your doctor if this occurs.

Getting a Second Opinion about an ACL Injury

It is important to seek a second opinion if you are not comfortable with the recommended treatment for your ACL injury.

Additional ACL Resources

American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine