ACL Tear

Expert ACL Tear Care In Austin to Restore Knee Stability and Get You Back in the Game

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is one of the most common knee injuries among athletes and active individuals. Whether the injury occurs during sports, exercise, or an accident, a torn ACL can make the knee feel unstable and limit your ability to participate in the activities you enjoy.

At Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin, our sports medicine specialists provide comprehensive ACL care, helping patients regain strength, restore stability, and safely return to sports and everyday life.

Treatment is personalized based on your age, activity level, severity of the injury, and recovery goals. Whether you have a partial tear, complete tear, or an ACL injury combined with damage to other structures in the knee, early evaluation can help determine the most effective treatment plan.

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Conner Patrick, M.D.

Conner Patrick, M.D.
Physicians

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When to See a Sports Medicine Specialist

If you've injured your knee and are experiencing pain, swelling, or instability, it may be time to see a sports medicine specialist.

Common symptoms of an ACL tear include:

  • A popping sensation or audible "pop" at the time of injury

  • Immediate or rapid swelling of the knee

  • Knee pain

  • A feeling that the knee is unstable or "giving out"

  • Difficulty walking or bearing weight

  • Limited range of motion

  • Difficulty returning to sports or physical activity

Prompt evaluation can help prevent additional damage to the knee, including injuries to the meniscus or cartilage.

What Causes an ACL Tear?

The ACL is one of the primary ligaments that stabilizes the knee. Most ACL injuries occur without direct contact and happen during activities that involve sudden stopping, pivoting, cutting, jumping, or landing awkwardly.

​​​​​​​Common causes include:

  • Quickly changing direction while running

  • Pivoting with the foot planted

  • Landing improperly after a jump

  • Sudden deceleration

  • Direct impact or collision to the knee

  • Sports such as soccer, football, basketball, skiing, and volleyball

Our specialists perform a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of symptoms and develop the most effective treatment plan.

Comprehensive, Personalized ACL Tear Treatment

Treatment recommendations depend on several factors, including your age, activity level, degree of knee instability, associated injuries, and personal goals. Some patients recover successfully with nonsurgical treatment, while others benefit from ACL reconstruction surgery.

Nonsurgical treatment may include:

Physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and stability

  • Activity modification

  • Functional knee bracing when appropriate

  • Anti-inflammatory medications to help manage pain and swelling

  • Neuromuscular and balance training to improve knee control

Patients with persistent instability, complete ACL tears, or goals of returning to cutting or pivoting sports are often candidates for surgery.

Surgical treatment may include:

Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction

ACL reconstruction using autograft or allograft tissue, depending on individual needs
Meniscus repair or cartilage procedures when additional knee injuries are present

Our surgeons utilize minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques designed to restore knee stability while supporting a safe and successful recovery.

What to Expect


What you can expect

Your visit begins with a comprehensive evaluation to better understand your injury, activity level, and recovery goals.

During your appointment, your physician may:

  • Review how your injury occurred

  • Perform a thorough knee examination, including specialized stability tests

  • Evaluate your knee's range of motion and strength

  • Obtain X-rays to rule out fractures or other bone injuries

  • Recommend further testing such as an MRI to confirm the ACL tear and evaluate the meniscus, cartilage, and other ligaments

  • Develop a personalized treatment plan based on your diagnosis and goals


Our team is committed to helping you understand your injury and guiding you through every step of recovery.

Advanced Sports Medicine Care Close to Home

Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin combines specialized sports medicine expertise with advanced treatment options designed to help patients recover safely and return to the activities they love.

Patients benefit from:

  • Board-certified, fellowship-trained sports medicine specialists

  • Advanced diagnostic imaging

  • Minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery

  • Individualized rehabilitation programs

  • Coordinated care with experienced physical therapists

  • Comprehensive care from injury through return to activity

Our goal is to restore knee stability, improve function, and help patients return to sports, work, and everyday life with confidence.

Take the first step toward relief
An ACL tear doesn't have to keep you from living an active lifestyle. With the right diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation plan, many patients successfully return to the activities they love. Whether your goal is returning to competitive athletics, recreational sports, or simply feeling confident in your daily activities, our sports medicine team is here to help you every step of the way.

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What are the signs of an ACL tear?

Many people experience a popping sensation at the time of injury, followed by rapid swelling, pain, limited range of motion, and a feeling that the knee may give out during walking or activity.

Will I need surgery for an ACL tear?

Not always. Treatment depends on your age, activity level, knee stability, and personal goals. Some patients achieve excellent results with physical therapy and rehabilitation, while others particularly athletes who participate in pivoting or cutting sports may benefit from ACL reconstruction surgery.

How is an ACL tear diagnosed?

Your physician will perform a physical examination, including specialized stability tests, and may order an MRI to confirm the injury and determine whether other structures in the knee, such as the meniscus or cartilage, have also been injured.

How long does recovery take after ACL reconstruction?

Recovery varies from person to person. Most patients gradually return to normal daily activities over the first several months, but returning to competitive sports typically requires 9 to 12 months or longer. Your surgeon and physical therapist will determine when it is safe to return based on your healing, strength, and functional progress.

Can I return to sports after an ACL tear?

Yes. With appropriate treatment and a structured rehabilitation program, many athletes can safely return to their previous level of competition. Your return-to-sport timeline will depend on your recovery, strength, knee stability, and successful completion of functional testing.

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I saw Dr Kay for my carpal tunnel symptoms and proceeded with surgery. He was very professional and thorough . The location was great; the process wasn’t stressful at all. He did a great job!!  Thank you Dr Kay and staff.

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I injured my shoulder over three years ago and had surgery to fix it (by a different physician). It just got progressively worse and I lived through it for three years.  I finally went to see Dr Seade for a full regular shoulder replacement.  It was an amazing experience!!!  He and his team are phenomenal!  I am going into the third month post surgery and doing strong in my PT.  The pain level is low, only sore muscles when I am doing PT.  A beautiful pain and I am on the trajectory to being me again!  Thanks to Dr. Seade and his amazing team!!!

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I messed up my ankle years ago resulting in 2 repairs and an ankle replacement. The replacement was unsuccessful so I went to Dr. Ebert to see what could be done. He took the time to evaluate my condition and informed me that I needed another ankle replacement. Now that the surgery has been completed. I look back with gratitude for a job well done. He left no boxes unchecked and although I still have physical therapy to complete, I feel better than I have in a year. Much thanks to Dr Ebert and his staff!

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Just had my third replacement surgery with Dr. Heinrich. Both knees and now a hip. I’ve never had any pain following all three surgeries. Only tightness in the muscles. The pre surgery and post surgery exercises I believe helped me be in the best condition for a pain free recovery. Excellent staff and follow up care.

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The amazing Dr Michael Moghimi and his team especially Andria & Thomas have been a God send to me. I have had 2 successful back surgeries performed by Dr. Moghimi and his team. I have been a patient at Austin Orthopedic since May 2015 using the services of various doctors. From my first interaction with them to my current back surgery recovery, they have given me top notch service and support.Dr. Moghimi always has an array of options for me to choose from that resolve my pain issues. I highly recommend Austin Orthopedic for all your orthopedic needs.

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