News
Courtney Vandersloot's ACL Tear: What Fans Should Know About Recovery and Treatment
Date posted: 6/9/2025
Last updated: 6/9/2025
Chicago Sky veteran and fan favorite Courtney Vandersloot has been diagnosed with a torn ACL in her right knee, a season-ending injury that has left WNBA fans devastated. Vandersloot sustained the injury early in a game against the Indiana Fever, exiting after just a few minutes of play.
At Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, a national leader in sports medicine and orthopedic care, we understand how impactful an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury can be — not only for professional athletes but also for active individuals of all levels. As trusted specialists in treating elite athletes across all sports, we’re here to break down what this injury means, how recovery typically unfolds, and the latest treatment options available.
What Is an ACL Tear?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key stabilizing ligaments in the knee. It helps control forward movement and rotation of the tibia (shin bone) relative to the femur (thigh bone). ACL tears often occur during sudden stops, changes in direction, or awkward landings — all common in basketball.
Symptoms of an ACL tear often include a loud pop or popping sensation in the knee, severe pain, rapid swelling, and a feeling of instability. In Vandersloot's case, the injury appeared to occur without direct contact, which is typical of many non-contact ACL injuries in high-level athletes.
Treatment Options for ACL Tears
At Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, our sports medicine specialists offer the most advanced options for ACL reconstruction and rehabilitation:
- ACL Reconstruction Surgery: Typically performed using a graft from the patient’s own tissue (autograft) or a donor (allograft). Our orthopedic surgeons utilize state-of-the-art, minimally invasive techniques to minimize downtime, reduce the risk of complications, and optimize long-term outcomes.
- Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab: Post-surgery rehab is essential. Our team of physical therapists and sports performance specialists works closely with patients to restore knee function, rebuild strength, and guide a safe return to sport or activity.
- Biomechanical Analysis: For athletes, our motion analysis and return-to-play testing help ensure proper mechanics are restored before returning to the court. These tools help reduce the risk of re-injury and support long-term joint health.
- Injury Prevention Programs: We also provide ACL injury prevention programs tailored to athletes, especially those in high-risk sports like basketball, soccer, and volleyball. These programs focus on strength, balance, agility, and neuromuscular control to help reduce injury risk.
Return to Sport
Courtney Vandersloot’s injury is a reminder of the physical demands of professional basketball and the resilience required to return to play. While her absence is a blow to the Sky, her journey through recovery can inspire athletes everywhere facing similar challenges.
Many high-level athletes have returned from ACL injuries to perform at or even above their previous level. With proper medical care, a focused rehab program, and the support of a strong team, recovery is not only possible — it’s expected. We wish Courtney a full and smooth recovery and look forward to seeing her back on the court.
Why Choose Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush?
We are proud to be the top-ranked orthopedic program in Illinois and are consistently recognized among the best in the nation. Our sports medicine physicians have treated professional athletes from the NBA, NFL, MLB, and WNBA — and we bring the same level of expertise and care to every patient, from weekend warriors to youth athletes and beyond.
Our comprehensive approach combines cutting-edge technology, evidence-based care, and personalized treatment plans to help patients return to the activities they love. With locations across Chicagoland and access to top rehabilitation resources, we make recovery as convenient and effective as possible.
