Can Lindsey Vonn race the Olympics with a torn ACL?

A U.S. musculoskeletal scientist suggests that Lindsey Vonn's elite conditioning and external knee support could make it possible for her to race the Olympics despite a torn ACL.

What is the typical recovery for a torn ACL?

A torn ACL is typically a season-ending injury that requires surgery and between six to nine months of rehabilitation.

How can Vonn potentially ski with a torn ACL?

Vonn's ability to ski with a torn ACL would depend on her surrounding musculature and ligaments stabilizing the knee, along with the use of external knee bracing for support.

Home / Sports / Scientist: Vonn's Olympic Skiing Possible Despite Injury

Scientist: Vonn's Olympic Skiing Possible Despite Injury

4 Feb

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Summary

Elite conditioning and external knee support could enable Vonn to race.
A torn ACL typically requires surgery and months of rehabilitation.
Vonn's prior recovery from knee replacement suggests strong physical adaptability.

Scientist: Vonn's Olympic Skiing Possible Despite Injury

Lindsey Vonn's aspiration to compete in the Milano Cortina Olympics downhill event shortly after rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) has been deemed extraordinary yet potentially achievable. A U.S. musculoskeletal scientist suggests that Vonn's elite conditioning and the use of external knee support could enable her participation.

While a torn ACL is typically a season-ending injury requiring extensive rehabilitation, Vonn's strength and prior remarkable recovery from knee replacement surgery indicate a significant capacity for physical adaptation. The scientist emphasized that Vonn's ability to ski without further injury hinges on the surrounding musculature and ligaments adequately stabilizing her knee against the extreme forces of downhill racing.