Recovery from a torn ACL usually takes many months, not weeks. The exact timeline depends on whether the tear is partial or complete, and whether you have surgery.
Typical recovery ranges
- For a partial ACL tear treated without surgery , many people recover functional use of the knee in about 3–6 months with structured physical therapy and activity modification.
- For a complete ACL tear without surgery , recovery of day‑to‑day function can take roughly 6–12 months, and high‑impact sports may remain limited because the ligament does not heal back to normal.
- After ACL reconstruction surgery , most sources describe a return to usual sports or intense activity around 6–12 months, with many recommending at least about 9 months to reduce reinjury risk.
Milestones during healing
- Many people can walk more normally and do basic daily activities within a few weeks after surgery or a major injury, but the knee may not feel “normal” for many months.
- Full range of motion often returns within about 6–8 weeks after surgery, while strength, balance, and confidence in cutting or pivoting sports usually require many additional months of rehab.
Factors that change recovery time
- Recovery time is influenced by age, overall health, how severe the tear is, associated injuries (like meniscus damage), and how consistently you follow a rehab program.
- Returning to sports too soon significantly increases the chance of reinjuring the ACL or damaging other knee structures, so clearance from an orthopedic specialist or physical therapist is important.
When to see a doctor
- If your knee feels unstable, gives way, or has ongoing pain or swelling, a medical evaluation (often with MRI) is needed to confirm the diagnosis and plan treatment.
- An orthopedic surgeon or sports‑medicine doctor can tell you whether non‑surgical rehab or ACL reconstruction is better for your activity goals, and a physical therapist can guide safe progression back to sports or work.
