Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear
What is an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key ligaments that helps stabilise the knee joint. An ACL injury occurs when the ligament is overstretched or torn, which can significantly affect knee strength, balance, and mobility. Early diagnosis and physiotherapy are vital in restoring function and preventing further complications.
How does an ACL injury occur?
ACL injuries most commonly happen during sudden twisting or pivoting movements while the foot is firmly planted, often seen in sports such as football, basketball, and skiing. They may also result from a direct impact to the knee, awkward landings, or hyperextension of the joint. These injuries can range from mild sprains to complete tears and often require specialist treatment for full recovery.
Symptoms of an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury
When the ACL is completely torn, many people report hearing or feeling a distinctive “popping” sound within the knee. This is often followed by immediate pain, which may settle quickly but is replaced by instability and swelling. The knee may give way during walking, running, or twisting movements, creating a sensation of the joint slipping out of place.
Other common symptoms include:
What to Do if You Suspect an ACL Injury
Physiotherapy for ACL Injuries
Early physiotherapy assessment is essential in managing ACL injuries. Your physiotherapist can carry out specific tests to evaluate ligament stability, although in the early stages pain and swelling may restrict full examination. In some cases, you may be referred for an MRI scan or an orthopaedic consultation for further evaluation.
Treatment pathways may differ depending on age, activity level, occupation, and the stability of your knee. Some patients manage well with structured physiotherapy alone, while others may require ACL reconstructive surgery. Regardless of whether surgery is performed, physiotherapy plays the most important role in recovery. A tailored rehabilitation programme helps restore strength, stability, and mobility, and for post-surgical patients, the long-term success of the operation depends heavily on adherence to physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy treatment if surgery is to be performed following an anterior cruciate ligament injury
Physiotherapy should begin immediately after an ACL tear, even before surgery. The early focus is on reducing swelling and restoring full range of movement. Many orthopaedic surgeons will not operate until a patient achieves full knee mobility. To accelerate recovery, a prehabilitation programme is prescribed to strengthen the muscles around the injured knee before surgery.
In the first few weeks after surgery, physiotherapy at Ace Physio Sports
focuses on controlling pain and swelling, improving range of motion, and preserving muscle strength. Rehabilitation plans are often guided by the surgeon’s protocol, which may include specific exercises, knee bracing, and controlled weight-bearing with crutches. Our physiotherapists liaise closely with your surgeon to ensure a safe and structured recovery..
Return to contact sports typically takes around nine months after ACL reconstruction, although recovery varies based on individual motivation, healing response, and the physical demands of your activities or work. A safe return to sport or work is only advised once swelling has subsided, strength and endurance are restored, and balance and neuromuscular control have been regained. Advances in surgical techniques and accelerated rehabilitation programmes are continually improving recovery timelines.
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Treatment may include:
- Exercise programmes
- Sports injury rehabilitation
- Electrotherapy
- Hydrotherapy
- Proprioceptive and balance retraining
- Locking or reduced range of motion in the joint
Physiotherapy treatment if managed conservatively (without surgery)
If surgery is not performed, physiotherapy still plays a vital role in restoring knee function and preventing further injury. At Ace Physio Sports, our focus begins with reducing swelling and regaining full movement before progressing to strengthening the muscles that support the knee and enhancing balance and control.
The goal is to help you return to work, sport, and daily activities as safely and quickly as possible while minimising the risk of future knee damage.
What shouldn’t I do if I have an anterior cruciate ligament injury?
If you suspect an ACL injury, avoid continuing with sports or strenuous activities, as the knee may collapse and damage other structures. You should also avoid hot showers, heat rubs, alcohol, and excessive activity within the first 48 hours, as these can increase blood flow, swelling, and bleeding around the injured ligament, delaying recovery.
Could there be any long-term effects from an anterior cruciate ligament injury?
ACL injuries can often result in a long absence from sport, sometimes over 12 months. Because the ligament does not heal on its own, reconstructive surgery is often recommended to restore knee stability. However, some individuals may still experience ongoing pain or stiffness after surgery.
If the ACL is not reconstructed, the knee may remain unstable and more prone to injury. Over time, this instability can increase wear and tear inside the joint, which may contribute to the early development of knee arthritis later in life.
At Ace Physio Sports, we provide personalised rehabilitation programmes to minimise these long-term risks and help you safely return to your desired activity level.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
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