Not everyone with an ACL tear needs a reconstruction. There are many patients who are able to regain their motion and strength in the limb and don’t have significant symptoms of functional instability. Patients that we suggest have their ACL reconstructed regardless of instability symptoms are pediatric patients and young adults. The reason for this is to try and prevent repeated and more severe instability episodes that can lead to cartilage and meniscus injuries. If you have torn your ACL (or another ligament in your knee) and have repeated episodes of instability and looseness of the knee that prevent normal daily activity and maintenance of an active lifestyle, you will likely benefit from a reconstructive procedure.