Iowa (563) 322-0971
Illinois (309) 762-3621
Illinois (309) 762-3621
At ORA Orthopedics, we help people in the Quad Cities recover from ACL injuries and get back to the activities they love. Our team uses the latest surgical techniques and a caring approach to make sure every patient gets the best possible outcome. Whether you are an athlete, a parent, or someone who just wants to stay active, our goal is to restore your knee strength and stability.
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the main ligaments in your knee. It helps keep your knee stable when you walk, run, jump, or change direction. ACL injuries are common in sports like soccer, basketball, and football, but they can also happen during everyday activities, such as slipping or turning quickly. When the ACL is torn, the knee may feel unstable, painful, or swollen. Some people notice their knee “gives out” when they try to move.
Not every ACL injury needs surgery; we offer many nonsurgical treatments. Sometimes, rest, physical therapy, and wearing a brace can help the knee heal. These treatments work best for people who do not play sports that require sudden movements or for those with only a partial tear. However, surgery may be recommended if:
The ACL is completely torn
Other ligaments or cartilage are also injured
The knee keeps buckling or feels unstable
You want to return to sports or activities that require strong, stable knees
At ORA Orthopedics, our doctors will talk with you about your injury, your goals, and the best treatment plan for your lifestyle.
ACL reconstruction surgery means removing the damaged ligament and replacing it with a new tendon, called a graft. The graft can come from your own body (autograft) or from a donor (allograft). Common sources for the graft include the patellar tendon (just below the kneecap), the hamstring tendon (behind the thigh), or the quadriceps tendon (above the kneecap). Your surgeon will help you choose the best option based on your age, activity level, and personal needs.
At ORA Orthopedics, our surgeons use minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques. This means they make small cuts and use a tiny camera to see inside your knee. This approach usually leads to less pain, smaller scars, and a quicker recovery.
On the day of surgery, you will receive anesthesia so you do not feel pain. The surgeon will make small incisions around your knee and use special tools to remove the torn ACL. Then, the new graft is placed in the correct spot and secured with screws or other devices. The surgeon checks to make sure your knee moves well and feels stable before finishing the procedure.
Most ACL surgeries take about one to two hours. After surgery, you will rest in the recovery area before going home. Most people can go home the same day.
Recovering from ACL surgery is a step-by-step process. At first, you will use crutches and wear a brace to protect your knee. Physical therapy starts soon after surgery to help you regain movement and strength. Your physical therapist will teach you exercises to improve flexibility, balance, and muscle power.
Here is what you can expect during recovery:
First few weeks: Focus on reducing swelling and regaining gentle movement. You will learn how to walk safely with crutches and a brace.
First two months: Begin strengthening exercises for your leg muscles. You may start riding a stationary bike or doing gentle stretches.
Three to six months: Progress to more advanced exercises, including walking without crutches, light jogging, and balance training.
Six to twelve months: Gradually return to sports and high-impact activities. Your therapist and doctor will guide you to make sure your knee is ready.
Most people return to regular daily activities within a few months. Athletes may need up to a year before returning to full competition. Sticking to your rehab plan is very important for a strong recovery.
Like any surgery, ACL reconstruction has risks. These can include infection, blood clots, stiffness, pain, or problems with the graft. Our team takes every step to reduce these risks and support your healing. Most patients recover well and regain full knee function.
Long-term, ACL surgery helps prevent further knee injuries and can reduce the risk of arthritis. It is important to follow your doctor’s advice and complete your physical therapy to get the best results.
ACL injuries can happen to kids and teenagers, especially those who play sports. Surgery for young patients requires special techniques to protect growing bones and joints. At ORA Orthopedics, our surgeons use methods that are safe for children and help them return to sports with confidence. Rehab plans are designed for each child’s age and activity level.
ACL surgery is typically scheduled 2 to 6 weeks after injury, once swelling has decreased and the knee has regained a reasonable range of motion. Delaying surgery until the knee is less inflamed helps reduce complications and improves surgical outcomes.
Recovery timelines vary:
Many patients regain full strength, stability, and function with proper rehabilitation. Long-term outcomes depend on adherence to physical therapy, surgical technique, and individual healing response.
Waiting too long can lead to:
At ORA Orthopedics, we believe that expert care and personal attention make all the difference. Our doctors, surgeons, and therapists work together to help you heal quickly and safely. We use the latest technology and proven methods to give you the best chance for a strong recovery.
If you have knee pain or think you may have an ACL injury, don’t wait. Contact ORA Orthopedics in the Quad Cities today to schedule your appointment and learn more about our advanced ACL reconstruction surgery. We are here to help you get back to the activities you love.
