Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

Tear or Sprain of Anterior Cruciate

Overview

Anterior Cruciate, also known as ACL is a major ligament in the knee. ACL injury mostly occurs during sports due to a sudden pause or change in direction while jumping or landing. It may compromise knee stability and affect sports activities.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms may include:

Popping in Knee

Extreme Pain

Loss in Range of Motion

Swelling

Causes

Most of the ACL tears result from a twisting injury but injuries during contact in sports such as football, hockey, and cricket can be a major cause as well.

Diagnosis

Other than the regular physical examination, a physician may ask to get the following tests done to determine the exact cause and treatment. The tests may include:

X-Ray

MRI

Ultrasound

When to See a Doctor

Immediate attention is required if any signs and symptoms appear. The knee joint is a complex structure so it is important to get proper diagnosis and treatment immediately.

Treatment

Conservative management of ACL tears can produce acceptable results in the first year but patients often complain of sharp decline in activity and increase in pain. A surgical reconstruction is usually preferred by doctors. An advantage of ACL reconstruction through “key-hole” surgery is to restore the knee stability that will eventually help to prevent the secondary injury to menisci and articular cartilage. A newer procedure which is a primary ACL reconstruction involves the repair of the remaining ACL and is only offered to select groups of patients.

Risks, Complications & Preventions

Numerous factors increase the risk of ACL. It can include being female, participating in sports or playing on artificial turf, etc. Patients who experience ACL pose a higher risk for osteoarthritis in the knee. A healthy lifestyle, training, and exercise can help prevent ACL.