The ACL prevents the shinbone from sliding forwards beneath the thighbone. The ACL can be injured in several ways:
Changing direction rapidly
Slowing down when running
Landing from a jump
Direct contact, such as in a football tackle
Lateral blow
Trauma forcing femur backwards
ACL injury
Pain may not be felt immediately, however you may hear a popping noise. During the coming hours you will occur swelling around the knee and will feel pain when you try to stand. Initial advice would be to apply ice to control swelling and elevate your knee until you can see a medical professional.
If you walk or run on an injured ACL, you can damage the cartilage (meniscus) in the knee. For example, you may plant the foot and turn the body to pivot, only to have the shinbone stay in place as the thighbone above it moves with the body.
How does an ACL injury get diagnosed? A diagnosis of an ACL injury is based on a thorough physical examination of the knee. The exam may include several tests to see if the knee stays in the proper position when pressure is applied from different directions. An X-ray, MRI or arthroscopic inspection will identify the severity of injury.
A minor or partial tear of the ACL may require Physiotherapy rehabilitation exercises and not require surgical treatment. A complete tear is more serious, especially in younger athletes, and may require surgery.
How are ACL tears treated?
Non Surgical treatment: Physiotherapy
May be used because of a patient’s age or overall low activity level.
May be recommended if the overall stability of the knee seems good.
Involves a treatment program of muscle strengthening, often with the use of a brace to provide stability.
Surgical treatment
Repairment or reconstruction of ACL, followed by Physiotherapy
*Disclaimer
Our therapists provide injury treatment, advice, prevention, and rehabilitation exercises through sports massage, deep tissue massage, exercise programming and physiotherapy.
We provide educational content for informational purposes only. Aways seek a medical professionals care and advice regarding injuries.