Ligament injuries are referred to as sprains, and they’re classified or graded by severity. Grade 1 sprains are the mildest, and they typically resolve on their own with a little TLC. In a grade 2 sprain, the ligament is stretched and often partially torn. You’ll probably have some swelling, and your knee may feel weak or unstable. Again, many grade 2 sprains heal on their own with physical therapy and other conservative treatments.
Grade 3 sprains are the most severe. These occur when the ligament is badly torn — usually completely torn in two. These sprains need to be surgically repaired to restore stability and function in the knee joint.
As with any knee surgery, your recovery time will be based in part on the extent of your injury, the type of surgery that’s performed, your ability to heal, and your own goals and expectations. Soon after your surgery, physical therapy will begin. Seeing the therapist on a regular basis is an important part of the healing process. Strengthening and gentle stretching exercises can help your knee regain its function, and it’s also important for preventing stiffness that can interfere with your recovery. Overall, you should expect to regain most of your joint function within about two to three months, but returning to sports can take longer.
