A ligament injury can turn a previously stable knee into one that feels unreliable during walking, running, climbing stairs, or changing direction. While some ligament injuries improve with rehabilitation, others require a more detailed assessment to determine whether surgical treatment may provide better stability.
Rejoice Ortho Care And Polyclinic in Borivali evaluates knee injuries based on the ligament involved, severity of damage, joint stability, activity level, and associated cartilage or meniscus injuries.
What is arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera is introduced into the joint through a small incision. It allows the surgeon to examine structures inside the knee and perform certain procedures when required.
Ligament reconstruction, on the other hand, is performed when a severely damaged ligament cannot provide adequate stability and reconstruction is considered appropriate.
When may ligament reconstruction be considered?
Not every ligament tear requires surgery. Reconstruction may be discussed when there is:
- Repeated knee giving-way or instability
- A complete ligament tear
- Difficulty returning to sports despite rehabilitation
- Combined ligament or meniscus injuries
- Persistent functional limitation
- A high requirement for knee stability at work or during sports
ACL injuries are among the commonly discussed ligament injuries, although treatment decisions depend on the individual rather than the scan alone.
What happens before deciding on surgery?
A clinical examination is essential. The orthopaedic surgeon assesses swelling, movement, stability, muscle strength, and the circumstances in which the injury occurred. Imaging such as an MRI may help identify ligament, meniscus, cartilage, and other soft-tissue damage.
For patients in Borivali and across Maharashtra, access to physiotherapy and the ability to follow a structured rehabilitation programme are also important considerations. Surgery is only one part of recovery.
Is physiotherapy still necessary?
Yes. Rehabilitation can be important both before and after ligament reconstruction. Before surgery, reducing swelling and restoring movement may improve readiness for the procedure. After reconstruction, rehabilitation gradually works on mobility, muscle strength, balance, and functional recovery.
The goal is not simply to repair an injured structure but to restore a knee that functions safely for the patient's everyday and sporting requirements.
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