When Can I Run After ACL Surgery?
Types of ACL Grafts and When Can I Run After ACL Surgery? — Expert Insights from Dr. Siddharth Aggarwal.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most common sports-related knee injuries, and when the ligament is torn completely, surgical reconstruction is often necessary. One of the most important decisions in ACL surgery is the selection of the ACL graft, which serves as a replacement for the torn ligament. Equally important for patients is understanding recovery timelines, especially the commonly asked question: “When can I run after ACL surgery?” In this guide, Dr. Siddharth Aggarwal, a renowned orthopedic and sports injury surgeon, explains the types of ACL grafts and provides recovery expectations based on his extensive experience in ligament reconstruction.
Types of ACL Grafts
There are several types of grafts used in ACL reconstruction, and each has its benefits and limitations. The selection depends on the patient’s age, activity level, and surgeon preference. Dr. Siddharth Aggarwal tailors graft choice based on individual needs to ensure long-term stability and function.
1. Autografts (Patient’s Own Tissue)
- Patellar Tendon Autograft (Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone)
This involves harvesting the middle third of the patellar tendon, along with bone plugs from the kneecap and shinbone.
Pros: Strong and provides secure fixation.
Cons: May cause anterior knee pain or difficulty kneeling. - Hamstring Tendon Autograft
Typically involves the semitendinosus and gracilis tendons.
Pros: Less anterior knee pain and smaller incision.
Cons: Slightly slower graft healing and may be less suitable for high-demand athletes. - Quadriceps Tendon Autograft
Taken from the quadriceps muscle, with or without a bone plug.
Pros: Good for revision surgery or patients with prior patellar or hamstring issues.
Cons: May cause anterior thigh weakness during early recovery.
2. Allografts (Donor Tissue)
- Taken from a cadaver donor and sterilized for surgical use.
Pros: No donor site morbidity, reduced surgical time, and quicker early recovery.
Cons: Slightly higher failure rate in young, active individuals; slower incorporation.
Dr. Siddharth Aggarwal carefully explains these options during consultation and selects the graft based on the patient’s age, athletic goals, and medical history. His precise surgical technique and personalized graft selection ensure optimal results.
When Can I Run After ACL Surgery?
A common question patients ask is: “When can I run after ACL surgery?” The answer depends on the type of graft used, how well the patient heals, and adherence to physiotherapy protocols.
Typical Recovery Timeline:
- Weeks 1–6: Focus on pain management, swelling control, and regaining range of motion.
- Weeks 6–12: Strength training begins with emphasis on quadriceps, hamstrings, and core muscles.
- Month 3–4: Light jogging or treadmill running may begin with clearance from your orthopedic surgeon and physiotherapist.
- Month 5–6: Gradual return to sports-specific drills, agility, and strength work.
- Month 9–12: Return to competitive sports, based on functional assessment and confidence in the knee.
Dr. Siddharth Aggarwal emphasizes that returning to running too early can jeopardize graft healing and increase the risk of reinjury. He uses functional milestone assessments and strength testing to decide the appropriate time for each patient to resume running and sports activities.
Why Choose Dr. Siddharth Aggarwal for ACL Reconstruction in Punjab?
With years of experience in treating ACL injuries and offering advanced sports injury treatment in Punjab, Dr. Siddharth Aggarwal is known for:
- Expertise in minimally invasive arthroscopic ACL reconstruction
- Personalized graft selection for optimal outcomes
- Structured rehabilitation guidance and post-op monitoring
- High success rates among athletes and active individuals
- Compassionate care and honest consultations
Whether you're a sportsperson, gym-goer, or active professional, Dr. Aggarwal ensures that your journey from surgery to recovery is smooth, informed, and empowering.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of ACL grafts and setting realistic expectations for running and recovery is vital for successful rehabilitation. With expert care from Dr. Siddharth Aggarwal, one of the leading orthopedic surgeons for ACL treatment in Punjab, you can be assured of receiving the best surgical outcomes and personalized rehabilitation. Schedule your consultation today to regain strength, stability, and confidence in your knee.