ACL Injuries in Non-Athletes: Why They Happen and How to Treat Them
ACL injuries aren’t limited to athletes. Many adults tear their ACL during routine activities such as slipping, twisting, or stepping awkwardly. These injuries often go undiagnosed or undertreated.
How ACL Tears Occur in Non-Athletes
- Sudden pivots
- Missed steps
- Falls
- Twisting while carrying weight
Symptoms may be subtle, leading patients to delay evaluation.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on symptoms, activity level, and knee stability. Options include:
- Physical therapy
- Activity modification
- ACL reconstruction for persistent instability
Surgery is not mandatory for everyone but may be necessary for functional stability.
Individualized Decision-Making
The goal is restoring confidence and function — not just treating an MRI finding.
ACL injuries are often associated with competitive sports, but many patients I treat from Northwest Indiana sustain ACL tears during everyday activities such as slipping, twisting, or missing a step. These injuries are frequently overlooked because patients do not consider themselves athletes.
Recognizing ACL injuries in non-athletes is essential, as untreated instability can lead to meniscus damage, cartilage loss, and early arthritis.
Specialized Knee Evaluation
Dr. Ronak M. Patel offers personalized care for ACL injuries in both athletes and non-athletes.
At a Glance
Ronak M. Patel M.D.
- Double Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Orthopaedic Surgeon
- Team physician to the Chicago Hounds (MLR) and past team physician to the Cavaliers (NBA), Browns (NFL) and Guardians (MLB)
- Published over 50 publications and 10 book chapters
- Learn more