A knee that is unstable due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury is prone to giving way again and again. When this happens, other structures of the knee may be damaged. Other ligaments may be stretched or torn, cartilage can tear, or arthritis can develop in the joint. A knee immobilizer may be used for a short time. If the knee is very swollen, fluid can be drawn from the joint to help relieve the pain and prevent further damage.
Physical therapy is very helpful in restoring the range of motion of the knee joint.
It can also help the person regain strength in the thigh muscles. Initially, the patient is advised to avoid weight-bearing, crutches and eventually a cane. Final treatment depends on how unstable the knee is, how active the person is, age, and other knee injuries. After physical therapy, some people decide to stop activities that might cause reinjury. Others continue modified activities with the support of an anterior cruciate ligament knee brace.