An ACL tear can cause significant knee instability, pain, and loss of confidence during everyday movement or athletic activity. For many patients, especially active adults and athletes, an untreated ACL injury can lead to repeated giving way of the knee and a higher risk of meniscus damage or early arthritis.
The good news is that ACL treatment options have expanded. In addition to traditional ACL reconstruction, select patients may be candidates for primary ACL repair or the BEAR implant (Bridge-Enhanced ACL Restoration)—an FDA-approved approach designed to support healing of the native ligament in specific cases. Your orthopedic surgeon will help determine which option is safest and most effective based on your injury, goals, and knee health.
How ACL Injuries Are Diagnosed
Accurate diagnosis is the first step toward the right treatment plan. Evaluation typically includes:
- A detailed physical examination to assess knee stability
- MRI imaging to confirm the type and severity of the ACL tear
- Assessment of the meniscus, cartilage, and other ligaments
This comprehensive approach helps identify whether the ACL is partially torn, completely torn, or associated with other knee injuries that may influence treatment decisions.
Non-Surgical Care for ACL Injuries
Not every ACL injury requires surgery. In some cases—particularly partial tears or in patients with lower activity demands—non-surgical care may be appropriate.
Conservative treatment may include:
- Physical therapy focused on strength, balance, and neuromuscular control
- Bracing to support knee stability
- Activity modification and gradual return to movement
However, many active patients with complete ACL tears experience persistent instability despite therapy and ultimately require surgical treatment to return to sports or demanding activities safely.
ACL Reconstruction Surgery
ACL reconstruction remains the most common and reliable surgical treatment for ACL tears.
During reconstruction, the torn ligament is replaced with a graft (often using tendon tissue from the patient or a donor). This procedure restores knee stability, allowing many patients to return to sports, work, and daily activities with confidence.
ACL reconstruction is well-studied, durable, and appropriate for a wide range of patients—especially those with chronic tears, high activity demands, or associated knee injuries.
ACL Repair (Select Cases)
In certain situations, primary ACL repair may be an option instead of reconstruction.
Repair may be considered when:
- The tear is located near where the ligament attaches to the bone
- Tissue quality is good
- The injury is addressed soon after it occurs
Because not all ACL tears are suitable for repair, candidacy is determined carefully by your surgeon based on imaging, timing, and knee anatomy.
BEAR Implant Treatment (Bridge-Enhanced ACL Restoration)
What Is the BEAR Implant?
The BEAR implant is an FDA-approved device designed to support the healing of the native ACL, rather than replacing it with a graft. It works by creating a scaffold that allows the torn ligament to heal together using the body’s own tissue.
Potential Advantages
- Preserves natural ACL tissue
- No tendon graft harvesting
- May reduce post-operative pain and muscle weakness
Who May Qualify
BEAR implant treatment is appropriate only for select patients. Candidates typically:
- Have a recent ACL tear
- Meet specific timing and tissue-quality criteria
- Do not have advanced arthritis or chronic instability
Your surgeon will determine whether BEAR is a safe and appropriate option for your knee.
BEAR Implant vs. ACL Reconstruction
While both procedures aim to restore knee stability, they work differently.
- ACL reconstruction replaces the torn ligament with a graft and has a long track record of success.
- BEAR implant treatment supports the healing of the original ligament and may be an option for select early injuries.
The best choice depends on injury timing, activity level, knee health, and long-term goals. Not all patients are candidates for BEAR, and reconstruction remains the standard for many ACL injuries.
Recovery & Rehabilitation After ACL Surgery
Recovery after ACL surgery is a gradual process guided by physical therapy and orthopedic follow-up.
Rehabilitation focuses on:
- Restoring strength, balance, and knee control
- Improving range of motion
- Progressing safely toward work, sports, or recreational goals
Recovery timelines vary by procedure and individual, but structured rehab is essential for protecting the knee and achieving the best outcome.
Why Choose CLS Health for ACL Surgery
At CLS Health, ACL care is personalized and comprehensive. Patients benefit from:
- Experienced knee ligament specialists
- Expertise in ACL reconstruction, repair, and BEAR implant treatment
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques when appropriate
- Integrated orthopedic and physical therapy care for seamless recovery
Our team focuses on restoring stability, function, and confidence—so you can return to activity safely.
Find an Orthopedic Surgeon for ACL Care in Houston
If knee pain or instability is limiting your activity, early evaluation can help protect your joint and preserve your treatment options.
At CLS Health, our orthopedic specialists provide comprehensive ACL care across Webster–Clear Lake, Sugar Land, Pasadena, and Pearland (opening soon). We offer personalized evaluations and advanced treatment options—including ACL reconstruction, repair, and BEAR implant treatment—based on your injury, goals, and activity level.
Schedule an orthopedic consultation today and take the next step toward restoring knee stability and confidence in movement.