The ACL is an important ligament in the knee that can tear during active movements beyond its normal range. There are three main surgery options to repair a torn ACL - using a cadaver ligament, the patellar tendon, or hamstring tendon. In 2010, the author tore their ACL playing football and their surgeon emphasized finding a good surgeon, physical therapist, and being a responsible patient for a successful ACL recovery and prevention of future tears.

1. ACL
The knees rubber band-holding
it together since
B.C

2. ACL’s tear when they are stretched beyond
their normal range
Mostly while being
active

3. Physical therapy
exercises-
More painful than actually tearing the ACL

4. 3 Surgery options
Cadaver
Patellar Tendon
H
a
m
S
t
r
i
n
g

5. In 2010, I tore my ACL playing
tackle football.

6. “The most important part of
ACL recovery and
prevention is a good
surgeon, good therapist,
and responsible patient.”
-Dr. Kelly M. Thomas