ACL Healing

Recent Research

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common in athletes and can significantly impact their performance and quality of life. While surgery has traditionally been the go-to solution for ACL ruptures, recent research highlights the effectiveness of conservative treatment approaches. At Athletica Sports Physio & Performance, we specialise in this treatment, utilising the latest research to help you heal your torn ACL effectively.

Cross Bracing Protocol

Recent studies have shown promising results for conservative treatments. Filbay et al. (2023) demonstrated a 90% healing rate using the Cross Bracing Protocol, which is a knee bracing procedure utilised over 12 weeks to provide stability as the ACL heals. By integrating targeted exercises and physiotherapy, patients can regain strength and function without the need for surgery.

Other ACL Healing Protocols

In addition to the Cross Bracing Protocol, we implement findings from Ihara & Kawano (2017), which introduced a modified knee bracing protocol. This approach reported an 81% healing rate for complete ACL tears. The modified protocol allows for greater mobility for the patient and can also be used in recovery, providing support while enabling patients to engage in rehabilitation exercises effectively. It remains highly effective, and we are actively using it with clients to assist in their ACL recovery.

Surgical vs. Non-Surgical ACL Treatment

Research by Grindem et al. (2012) highlights the success of non-surgical treatments. Their study found no difference in the return-to-sport rates between athletes who underwent surgery and those who opted for non-operative treatment, with both groups achieving a return rate of 68.1%. Interestingly, the non-operative group performed better on functional tests and scored higher on knee function scales.

In another longitudinal study, Myklebust et al. (2003) tracked professional handball players with ACL injuries over 6 to 11 years. Among those treated surgically, only 58% returned to their pre-injury performance level, compared to 82% of the non-operative group. Similarly, Hurd et al. (2009) found that 72% of athletes meeting certain criteria returned to sports without reinjury over a decade of follow-up.

Debunking Myths About Surgery

A common argument in favour of ACL surgery is that it can prevent further damage to the knee’s internal structures, particularly the meniscus. However, a study by Ekas et al. (2020) concluded that there is insufficient evidence to suggest that early ACL reconstruction is more beneficial than non-operative treatment, particularly regarding the risk of new meniscal tears.

Several literature reviews, including those by Delincé & Ghafil (2012), Smith et al. (2014), and Monk et al. (2016), support this finding. These studies found no significant differences in the rates of subsequent meniscal tears between surgical and non-surgical treatments. The prevalent notion that surgery is essential to prevent future meniscal issues often stems from flawed comparisons between surgical patients receiving excellent rehabilitation and those receiving no treatment at all.

The Importance of Rehabilitation

The greatest risk of further knee damage after an ACL rupture arises not from the choice between surgery and conservative treatment but from inadequate rehabilitation. Insufficient strengthening of the knee post-injury can lead to complications and re-injury, regardless of the initial treatment method.

Moreover, the idea that athletes must undergo surgery to return to sports is a misconception. Many professional athletes have successfully competed at high levels without an ACL. For instance, DeJuan Blair, an NBA player who suffered torn ACLs in high school, continued his career without further injury after his original repairs failed.

Summary: Reassessing ACL Treatment Options

In conclusion, many ACL ruptures can heal on their own without surgical intervention. A healed ACL often provides a stable knee and does not necessarily impede an athlete’s ability to return to their sport. Surgery does not guarantee a better chance of returning to athletic activity or reducing the risk of future injuries.

Conservative ACL knee bracing treatment methods, supported by the latest research and tailored rehabilitation programmes, can lead to successful outcomes. At Athletica Sports Physio & Performance, we specialise in these evidence-based approaches to recovery. If you have suffered an ACL injury, consider exploring these effective alternatives to surgical intervention.