Last reviewed: September 29, 2026

Usually not for about a year.

Most teens do get back to sports. About 9 in 10 children and teens return to a sport after ACL surgery, and about 8 in 10 return to the level they played before.

Getting there takes time. Return to full sport usually takes 9 to 12 months. Teens who are still growing often take longer, about 14 months before playing games in sports with twisting and cutting.

The biggest worry is tearing an ACL again. About 1 in 5 teens tear an ACL again within about five years, in the same knee or the other knee. The risk is higher in younger teens and in those who go back sooner. Each extra month of waiting lowers it.

The decision is based on tests, not just the calendar. The surgeon or therapist checks that the knee has no pain or swelling and that the leg is nearly as strong as the other one in strength and hopping tests. How ready the teen feels also matters. Teens who feel confident and less afraid are more likely to get back to their sport. Young athletes who feel less ready are more likely to tear it again.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a knee brace is not routinely recommended for sport after ACL surgery, because it has not been clearly shown to prevent a second tear.

In general:

  • Do not let your teen go back to sport before the surgeon clears them.
  • Ask your teen’s surgeon which tests your teen must pass before playing again.
  • Tell your teen’s doctor if your teen is afraid of hurting the knee again.

Drafted with AI assistance from published sources, reviewed and edited by Babak Sheikh, MD.

Sources:

This is general information about what published research shows. It is not medical advice and it is not about your situation. Reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship with me. I am a retired orthopedic surgeon and I do not see patients. Talk with your own doctor before changing anything about your care. If something feels suddenly or seriously wrong, get medical care promptly rather than waiting.

This page is provided as is. I make no guarantee that it is accurate, complete or current, and medical evidence changes. Use of it is at your own risk.

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