Helping Athletes Come Back Strong … and Stay That Way
By Orthopedic Surgeon James Slauterbeck, MD
When a child or grandchild tears an ACL, it can be overwhelming for the entire family. These injuries are becoming more common in teenagers, especially during the high school years. While ACL surgery is often very successful, the bigger challenge is helping young athletes return to sports safely without getting hurt again.
Research shows that teenagers face a higher risk of a second ACL injury than adults. About one in five adolescent athletes will tear an ACL again after surgery, either in the same knee or the opposite one. This higher risk means that recovery needs to be handled carefully and thoughtfully, and with proper guidance.
Age plays an important role in recovery. Younger athletes are more likely to experience another injury than older teens or adults. This does not mean they should avoid sports, but it does mean they need extra protection, supervision, and time to heal fully before returning to competition.
One of the biggest risks comes from returning to sports too quickly. Young athletes often feel better before their knee is truly ready. Parents and grandparents may feel pressure from teams, seasons, or scholarships, but studies clearly show that waiting longer before returning to sports lowers the chance of another serious injury. Many repeat injuries happen within the first year after surgery because the athlete returned too soon.
Doctors now emphasize readiness rather than simply counting months after surgery. A safe return depends on whether the athlete has regained enough strength, balance, and control. This is measured through specific strength and movement tests, not just how the knee feels. Many specialists recommend waiting at least 9 to 12 months and sometimes longer before full return to competitive sports.
It is also important to understand that recovery involves both legs, not just the injured one. The uninjured leg must also be strong. Weakness on either side can increase the risk of injury, which is why full-body conditioning and balanced strength matter so much during rehabilitation.
Emotional readiness is just as important as physical healing. Many young athletes feel fear or anxiety about getting hurt again. Those who feel confident and mentally prepared are far more likely to return to sports successfully. Parents and grandparents play a key role by listening, offering reassurance, and encouraging open conversations if fear becomes a barrier.
Families can make a powerful difference in recovery. Supporting physical therapy, encouraging honesty about pain or fear, and resisting pressure to rush back all help protect the athlete’s long-term health. The ultimate goal is not just getting back on the field but staying healthy and active for years to come.
Come see one of the sports medicine-trained orthopedic surgeons at UNC Health Orthopedics at Southeastern Health Park to help guide your family safely through recovery.
James Slauterbeck, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon whose special interests include sports medicine, adolescent sports medicine, female sports medicine, and high school and college athletic injuries. He is affiliated with UNC Health Orthopedics at Southeastern Health Park and UNC Health Southeastern. To learn more, call (910) 738-1065 or visit https://www.unchealth.org/care-services/doctors/s/james-r-slauterbeck-md.
