ACL Tear Treatment in Boston
Dr. Robert E. McLaughlin II, MD evaluates ACL injuries and explains every treatment option, including physical therapy. Same-day or next-day appointments at four Massachusetts offices.
Call 978-969-3624
What is an ACL tear, and how is it treated?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the main ligaments that stabilizes the knee joint. An ACL tear can cause sudden pain, swelling, and instability. Tears often occur during sports that involve cutting, pivoting, or sudden stops.
Dr. McLaughlin evaluates each ACL injury and discusses all treatment options. Not all ACL tears require surgery. Some patients can regain stability through physical therapy and rehabilitation. If surgery may be needed, Dr. McLaughlin explains the options.
Call 978-969-3624 for a same-day or next-day evaluation at any of our four offices.
Robert E. McLaughlin II, MD is a board-certified Orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in sports medicine, named a Boston Magazine Top Doctor in 2025 and 2026. He sees every patient himself.
- Condition ACL tears, knee ligament injuries
- Non-surgical Physical therapy for suitable candidates
- Appointments Same-day or next-day at four offices
ACL treatment options
Dr. McLaughlin evaluates each ACL injury and tailors treatment to the patient’s activity level, age, and goals.
Physical therapy
Patients with lower activity demands may recover full function through targeted physical therapy. Therapy focuses on restoring range of motion and strengthening the muscles around the knee to improve stability. Dr. McLaughlin provides expedited PT referrals when needed.
Cortisone injections
Cortisone injections can reduce swelling and pain in the knee during recovery and rehabilitation following an ACL injury.
Learn more →A clear plan
Dr. McLaughlin examines the knee himself and explains every treatment option, so you can decide on a plan with full information. If imaging is needed, expedited MRI options are available.
Signs of an ACL tear
Many people feel or hear a pop in the knee at the moment of injury. Swelling often follows quickly, and the knee may feel unstable or give way, especially when turning or changing direction. Walking may be possible, but sports and quick movements usually are not. ACL tears are common in soccer, basketball, football and skiing. If you notice these signs after a twist, landing, or collision, have the knee examined before returning to activity.
How an ACL injury is diagnosed
Dr. McLaughlin examines the knee himself, testing how stable it is and checking for other injuries that often happen with an ACL tear, such as a meniscus tear. An ACL tear is usually diagnosed with a physical exam, including stability tests such as the Lachman test, which checks how far the shinbone moves forward. When imaging is needed, expedited MRI options are available, so you can get answers and a plan quickly.
ACL tear questions
What is an ACL tear?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the main ligaments that stabilizes the knee joint. An ACL tear can cause sudden pain, swelling, and instability. Tears often occur during sports that involve cutting, pivoting, or sudden stops.
Can an ACL tear be treated without surgery?
Not all ACL tears require surgery. Some patients, particularly those with lower activity demands, can regain stability through physical therapy and rehabilitation. Dr. McLaughlin evaluates each case and explains whether surgery should be considered.
Does Dr. McLaughlin treat ACL injuries?
Yes. Dr. McLaughlin evaluates and treats ACL injuries at Boston Concierge Orthopedics. Call 978-969-3624 to schedule an evaluation.
What should I do right after an ACL injury?
Stop the activity, rest the knee, and use ice to control swelling. Avoid pivoting or returning to sports until the knee has been examined. Call 978-969-3624 for a same-day or next-day appointment.
Is a partial ACL tear different from a complete tear?
ACL injuries range from a stretched ligament or partial tear to a complete tear. Partial tears and patients with lower activity demands are more often managed without surgery. Dr. McLaughlin evaluates each case and explains the options.
When can I return to sports after an ACL tear?
It depends on the tear, the treatment, and how well the knee regains strength and stability. Avoid cutting and pivoting sports until the knee has been examined and is stable.
ACL care at all four offices
One phone number for every office: 978-969-3624. Phones are answered Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM.
Boston
115 Newbury Street5th Floor
Boston, MA 02116Monday–Friday 8 AM–5 PMOffice details →Get directions
Norwood
520 Boston Providence Tpk.Suite 14
Norwood, MA 02062Monday–Friday 8 AM–5 PMOffice details →Get directions
Beverly
900 Cummings CenterSuite 221U
Beverly, MA 01915Monday–Friday 8 AM–5 PMOffice details →Get directions