Do torn ligaments in the knee ever heal on there own?

My husband was in a motorcycle accident and was told by the doctors that he tore a ligament in his knee. I was wondering if anyone had ever had this injury, if so, what ligament and did you require surgery.

thanks!

The answer to your question depends on the degree of the tear. If it is a full thickness tear then surgery is the only option. If it is a partial thickness tear these will heal to an extent but take some time in the making. Have your husband's MD order a MRI to determine the extent of the tear and which ligament it is. There are 4 major ligaments of the knee: LCL, MCL, PCL and the dreaded ACL. Hope this helps.

I have never had this injury myself, but know people who have. I am almost 100% positive the ligaments need to be surgically reattached for them to heal.

i had to have surgery to repair mine...he needs to be sure to follow with his doctor, or orthopedic surgeon to know what's next!

It depends on which ligament it is and to what degree it is injured. My father tore his MCL and refused to have surgery, even though the doctor's advised him to do have it repaired surgically. He has to do daily exercises to keep his muscles strengthened and lots of stretching. He has occasional pain, but is very happy with his choice. I on the otherhand went the surgery route for my injury, which led to more and more and more surgeries. My advice is if it is possible to not have surgery and live comfortablly then opt for that, but if surgery is the only option, then just stick with the doctor's guidelines and follow the rehab and all should be well. Good luck to him!