Twist, Pivot, Pop: Understanding ACL Injuries & Your Road to Recovery August 29, 2025 Whether chasing a ball on the tennis court or skating toward the goal in a hockey game, a sudden twist or stop can lead to a dreaded ACL injury. This type of injury is one of the most common, and impactful, athletes and active individuals alike experience. Christopher McCrum, MD, orthopedic and sports medicine surgeon at Samaritan Athletic Medicine Center and consultant for Oregon State University athletics, has seen it all. From weekend warriors to elite athletes, his approach to care remains the same, helping patients return to the activities they love. “My goal is to get patients back to their highest functional level,” Dr. McCrum said. Diagnosing the Injury An ACL tear is typically diagnosed with an X-ray to rule out bone damage, followed by an MRI to confirm the tear and assess soft tissue. Treatment options can vary and not everyone needs surgery. “Some people can run and jump with no ACL or one that has been compromised,” Dr. McCrum said. “Others may struggle with every day or what seem like simple movements, like getting out of a car or turning in the kitchen.” For athletes that compete in sports like soccer, basketball or volleyball, having a stable knee is essential, and surgery is often the best path forward. Surgical Options Tailored to Your ACL reconstruction involves replacing the torn ligament with tissue from either your own body or a donor. Dr. McCrum helps patients choose the best option based on age, activity level and risk of reinjury. Quadriceps tendon graft: Often a top choice for younger athletes as it offers strong outcomes and less kneeling pain post-surgery. Patellar tendon graft: Common among professional athletes, this option is reliable but may cause discomfort when kneeling. Hamstring graft: Ideal for those with quadricep weakness, as there is no bone removal, which means less pain when kneeling. “People are generally in tune with their own bodies and can make a good choice based on that understanding,” Dr. McCrum said. Recovery & Getting Back on Your Feet ACL reconstruction is typically an outpatient procedure. After surgery patients will begin rehab right away. “This type of surgery does not require being cooped up in bed,” Dr. McCrum said. “Rather, greater outcomes are seen when patients get back on their feet and begin the rehab process more quickly.” Recovery time can vary but most patients return to full activity within a year, sometimes sooner for high-level athletes. “In sports medicine, we perform lifestyle-saving surgery,” he said. “I want you to get back to the activities you enjoy.” Learn more about other services at Samaritan Athletic Medicine Center or orthopedic care at Samaritan.
