An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tear is a common knee injury, and several factors can make an ACL tear worse or increase the severity of the injury.

Here are some factors that can exacerbate an ACL tear…

1. Delay in Treatment – Not seeking prompt medical attention and a diagnosis after an ACL tear can make the injury worse. Early intervention can help manage and address the injury effectively.
2. Reinjury – Continuing to engage in activities that put stress on the injured knee can lead to further damage to the torn ACL. Avoiding high-impact sports or activities that involve pivoting and cutting is essential after an ACL tear.
3. Associated Injuries – ACL tears often occur alongside other knee injuries, such as meniscus tears, collateral ligament injuries, or chondral (cartilage) damage. These associated injuries can worsen the overall condition of the knee and may require additional treatment.
4. Incomplete Healing – Failing to follow through with recommended treatments, including surgery and rehabilitation, can result in incomplete healing of the torn ACL. This can lead to ongoing instability and long-term issues.
5. Overuse and Stress – Overusing the injured knee or subjecting it to excessive stress before it has fully healed can exacerbate the injury and result in additional damage.
6. Lack of Rehabilitative Exercises – After surgery or conservative treatment, not adhering to a structured physical therapy and rehabilitation program can hinder the recovery process and increase the risk of complications.
7. Neglecting Rehabilitation Protocols – Post-surgery, neglecting or rushing through rehabilitation exercises can lead to muscle weakness, poor range of motion, and instability, which can worsen the outcome of an ACL tear.
8. Not Wearing Recommended Braces or Support – Failure to wear recommended knee braces or supports during physical activities can expose the knee to additional trauma.
9. Repetitive Stress – Returning to high-impact or pivoting sports or activities too soon or without adequate conditioning can place repetitive stress on the injured knee and lead to further injury.
10. Inappropriate Footwear – Wearing inappropriate footwear for sports or activities can affect stability and increase the risk of knee injuries, especially after an ACL tear.

It’s essential to follow the guidance of medical professionals and adhere to the recommended treatment plan for an ACL tear. This may involve surgery, physical therapy, and a gradual return to physical activities. Avoiding activities that could worsen the injury and maintaining a proactive approach to rehabilitation is critical to achieving the best possible outcome after an ACL tear.