How long does an ACL injury take to heal?

A torn ACL does not heal on its own. Think of the ACL being like a braided rope. The ACL “unravels” similar to what happens to a cut or torn piece of rope. Unfortunately, the torn ACL does not grow back together. In order to restore full knee function, surgery is needed to repair or replace the ACL.

After ACL repair or replacement surgery, the healing process typically takes 6 months before you can resume sports or activities that require twisting, pivoting or jumping. However, if there is good muscle strength you can begin running and lifting weights as early as 3 months after ACL surgery.