“Can you walk without crutches with a torn ACL?”
I am an 18 year old female. I wonder if you can walk without crutches with a torn ACL?
5 Answers
OrthopaedicSurgeonOrthopaedicSurgeon
Preoperatively, yes, if your knee is stable. If your knee is giving way, you may be doing more harm to the knee with each episode.
Depends on the severity of the injury to the ligament. And time frame after the injury. If the ACL is truly torn then it is not in your best interest to put much weight on it as it will lead to significant other damage in the knee including arthritis and damage to the meniscus.
I see once a in while patients who have torn ACL walk well on the flat surface. However I do recommend wear a brace while walking
Have you had surgery? Is the swelling gone? Do you have the ACL brace for your knee? Lots of factors go into this yes or no answer. I would recommend you seek a local PT for consultation. Good luck.
Yes. After the initial tear, your knee will hurt. After a week or so, the pain will go away and then you can walk without crutches. HOWEVER, your knee may be unstable and it will give out on you; and you could fall. So, be careful. If you have had surgery to repair the ACL, then you would need crutches for 4-6 weeks.
Hope it helps!!
Dr. Bose
Hope it helps!!
Dr. Bose
