Vonn Skis on Torn ACL: Risky Olympic Gamble

Lindsey Vonn is pushing forward with her Olympic Alpine skiing aspirations, despite a recent injury. The athlete sustained a completely ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and bone bruising in her left knee during a World Cup event in Switzerland. This severe damage includes a torn ACL, a critical ligament connecting the thighbone to the shinbone, along with damage to the meniscus, a cartilage shock absorber.

Medical professionals have expressed concerns about the inherent risks of competing with such an injury. They note that an unstable knee at racing speeds could lead to catastrophic damage. Vonn, however, plans to use a specialized knee brace and rely on her physical conditioning, including quad and hip strength, to manage. This decision comes despite the typical recovery time of nine months to a year following surgical treatment for a ruptured ACL, with some athletes never returning to their sport.

Experts acknowledge that while skiing is possible with a ruptured ACL, Vonn's performance could be impacted by swelling or reduced control. However, they also recognize the exceptional physical capabilities of elite athletes like Vonn, suggesting that a competitive return remains a possibility if these factors can be managed effectively.