When world-class football players like Michael Owen suffer an ACL injury for the first time and make a speedy return to action, it can lead to them needing to undergo surgery once more. This is because players who have injured their anterior cruciate ligament to the extent that they require surgery should build muscle strength around the knee joint and ensure that their bodies are completely prepared before they return to full use of the knee again. When those knee joints which have already been operated on, are required to twist, even by just a little, there is a much greater chance of an ACL tear than in those who have never experienced such an injury.
Taking care not to rotate the knee too often when playing and making sure to build strength in the muscles surrounding the knee joint, as well as building core body strength, can help lower the risk of ACL injury and prevent against a repeat injury of the same joint for those who have already suffered this type of injury. This will then ensure that football players can stay away from the operating table. Undergoing repeat surgeries not only makes the surgery more difficult, but also increases the risk of complications occurring.