I'm not a sports med physician, but a new ACL is not as good as your original ACL. If it's only thinned, you're probably better off trying to heal it and strengthen the surrounding muscles.
If the cartilage tear is causing your knee to lock up or causing your knee to give way suddenly (as in dropping to the floor) Then most Family docs would say definitely get it fixed.
If it's not, rehab is worth a try.
Without knowing the details of your workout routine, I can't offer real specific recommendations, but I know that if your workout hurts a lot, you should discuss it with your rehab people and find other cardio and strength building that won't stress the knee that much.
Pain is not only annoying, but it often serves as a warning that what you're doing isn't right for you.
I do know that bicycling and swimming are preferable exercises to running for knee rehab.
Perhaps your rehab routine should include aerobic swimming/snorkeling on your non-diving days? The moderate leg loading that you get from fins instead of "naked foot" flutter kick is a better leg workout, but avoids damaging impact.
Dr Deco makes a good case for avoiding aerobic diving when possible, but I'm sure there's some way to make numerous dives an important part of rehab....
Let's see now, three dives a week minimum..., doctor's order... and warm water is better than cold....
This is getting to be an interesting rehab prescription..
I'm not sure your local HMO would pay for that, but it sounds good to me. Of course, I can always rationalize diving somehow.
If your rehab routine takes you to Bonaire and you need a personal physician for the trip, I might be persuaded....
strictly for medical science purposes, of course...
Yeah, that's the ticket!!
If your boss won't spring for two months' Caribbean rehab, check with your local rehab people to avoid the most painful parts.
If your boss will spring for it, give me a hint where I can send my Resume'and give him my Email address.
Dive painlessly,
John
