This article explores what an ACL injury is, what it feels like, and how it is diagnosed. You’ll learn about the common symptoms to watch out for, including pain, swelling, and knee instability.
Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, with multiple locations in Ohio, can provide the expert care you need. Contact us today to understand more about ACL injuries and take control of your knee health!
An ACL injury (or anterior cruciate ligament tear) affects a key ligament in the knee. The ACL is one of four main ligaments that stabilize the knee joint. It runs diagonally across the knee, connecting the thigh bone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia).
When the ACL is injured, it often means the ligament has been stretched or torn. This usually happens due to sudden stops, twists, or jumps, which are common in sports like soccer, basketball, or skiing. An ACL injury can also involve damage to other knee ligaments, such as the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), or medial collateral ligament (MCL).
Symptoms of an ACL tear include a popping sound at the time of injury, severe pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. You may also experience instability or a feeling that the knee is giving way.
The ACL, along with the other ligaments in the knee joint, plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and allowing smooth movement. If you suspect an ACL injury, it’s important to seek medical attention to evaluate the damage and discuss treatment options.
When the ACL is injured, you might feel a sharp pain in your knee, often accompanied by a popping sound at the moment of injury. This can be a sign of a torn ACL.
Right after the injury, your knee will likely swell quickly, making it difficult to walk or bear weight. Many people describe feeling like their knee is unstable or giving out, especially when trying to stand or move. The pain can range from moderate to severe, depending on the extent of the injury.
Diagnosing an ACL tear involves a combination of physical examination and imaging tests. If you suspect an anterior cruciate ligament injury, the first step is to visit a healthcare provider, usually an orthopedic specialist.
During the physical exam, the doctor will check for signs of a complete ACL tear or partial tear. They may ask you to describe how the injury happened and what symptoms you are experiencing. Common symptoms of ACL injuries include a popping sound at the time of injury, severe pain, swelling, and a feeling of instability in the knee.
The doctor will perform specific tests to assess the stability of your knee. One common test is the Lachman test, where the doctor gently pulls on the tibia while holding the thigh steady to see if there is abnormal movement. Another test is the pivot shift test, which checks for a shift in the knee joint.
Imaging tests are often needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the injury. An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is the most common test used to diagnose anterior cruciate ligament injuries. It provides detailed images of the knee’s soft tissues, including the ligaments, to show if there is a complete ACL tear or if other structures are damaged.
X-rays might also be taken to rule out any bone fractures, although they cannot show ligament injuries. Most ACL tears are diagnosed through a combination of the physical exam and MRI results.
If an anterior cruciate ligament injury is confirmed, the doctor will discuss the best treatment options based on the severity of the tear and your activity level. Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, or surgery for a complete ACL tear.
Treating an ACL tear typically involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery. Here’s a breakdown of the treatment options:
ACL injuries typically do not heal on their own because the ligament lacks the necessary blood supply to repair itself. Complete tears almost always require surgery for a full recovery, while partial tears might improve with conservative treatments like rest and physical therapy.
Preventing ACL injuries involves strengthening the muscles around the knee, improving flexibility, and practicing proper techniques in sports and physical activities. Here are some tips:
By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of ACL injuries and maintain knee health. If you experience a knee injury, seek medical advice promptly to determine the best course of action.
If you suspect an ACL injury, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Schedule an appointment with Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, conveniently located in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio.
Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you return to your active lifestyle. Contact us today and take the first step towards healing and preventing future injuries!
Medically reviewed by Brad L. Bernacki, MD
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