Sprain of anterior cruciate ligament of right knee - #32418
Hello Doctor, I’ve been having an issue with my right knee due to a known ACL problem. I had an MRI on 28th June 2025 and then took medicines for about 25 days, which reduced the pain for some time, but now it has returned — I feel pain behind the knee and it also radiates to the calf and back of the thigh, especially while walking. The knee sometimes feels weak, and I’m worried whether this is still only the ACL or something else like the meniscus, muscle strain, or even a vascular/nerve issue. I’d like your advice on whether I need a repeat MRI or other tests and what the best treatment approach would be — physiotherapy, medicines, or surgery.
Doctor-recommended remedies for this condition


Doctors' responses
Certainly, dealing with knee pain post an ACL injury requires attention, especially when pain returns or worsens. The symptoms you describe, such as radiating pain and muscle weakness, could indeed indicate other associated conditions like meniscus tears, muscle strains, or even vascular or nerve involvement. Your concerns are valid and warrant a closer investigation.
Considering your situation, a repeat MRI may be beneficial. It will give a clearer view of your knee’s current condition, identifying issues like meniscal damage or structures impacting nerves.
In the meantime, you can incorporate some Ayurvedic approaches that might help manage the pain and strengthen your knee. Begin with RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) in case of acute pain. Use gentle Ayurvedic oils like Mahanarayana taila or Dhanwantaram taila to massage the knee area, improving circulation and reducing stiffness. Be gentle to avoid aggravating any underlying injury.
From a dietary perspective, include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet like turmeric and ginger, which can help reduce inflammation. Ensure your agni is balanced by consuming easily digestible foods to support tissue repair.
Consult an orthopedic specialist to clarify the need for surgical intervention based on MRI results. If surgery isn’t required, structured physiotherapy under professional guidance will be invaluable to strengthen the supporting muscles and improve mobility.
Avoiding strenuous activities and maintaining a balanced routine will be crucial. Attend to this promptly to prevent further complications and promote healing. In any event, ensure proper medical guidance tailored to your circumstances - Ayurvedic interventions complement but do not replace necessary conventional treatments.
Based on what you’ve shared about your knee, it’s understandable to be concerned about what’s causing the pain and instability. Given that you’ve had an ACL sprain and pain has returned despite initial treatment, a careful reassessment might be necessary. It’s possible that the issue could be related to your ACL but it’s also crucial to evaluate for any additional injury like as meniscus tears, muscle strain, or possible nerve involvement, especially because you’re feeling pain radiating to the calf and thigh.
I’d advise that you consult with an orthopedic specialist who may consider a repeat MRI to rule out additional injuries or complications. The imaging can provide a clearer picture of soft tissues including ligaments and meniscus. If the problem is indeed still with the ACL, or if there’s another injury, the treatment can be tailored accordingly.
In terms of Siddha-Ayurvedic care, strengthening the ligaments and maintaining the balance of vata dosha can be key. You might consider herbal formulations such as Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Guggulu (Commiphora wightii) which are known for anti-inflammatory properties. Panchakarma therapies, particularly Abhyanga (oil massage) with warm Mahanarayan oil can help improve circulation and relieve pain. Resting the knee, avoiding strain, practicing gentle knee-strengthening exercises as advised by a physiotherapist, and ensuring a diet that pacifies vata could be beneficial.
Avoid any movements or activities that cause more pain or strain to the knee. If the pain or instability is severe or hindering daily activities, surgical options could be a consideration. Ultimately, accurate diagnosis and alignment of conventional and Ayurvedic methodologies can enhance healing outcomes, while specialist input is crucial to address serious concerns.

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