Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

What is an ACL injury?

The ACL is the anterior cruciate ligament, one of two ligaments deep within the knee joint. The other is the posterior cruciate ligament. These two ligaments are called 'cruciate' as together they form a cross shape within the knee joint.

Their main job is to keep the Femur (thigh bone) and the Tibia (shin bone) in line and prevent one or the other slipping forwards or backwards. The ACL stops the Tibia from moving forwards under the Femur.

The ACL can be torn (ruptured) when a twisting force is applied to the knee when the foot is planted on the ground. It can also occur during an impact to the outside of the knee. It is quite a common injury, especially in contact sports.

Symptoms

• You might hear a crack or pop at the time of injury.
• The knee joint may feel loose and unstable.
• Pain which can't be pinpointed, around the whole knee joint.
• The knee will swell up, usually instantly although this can be delayed.
• The movement at the knee joint will be reduced, especially when you try to straighten the knee.

Treatment

• Use the R.I.C.E protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) as soon as possible.
• Seek medical attention straight away.
• A Doctor or Sports Injury Professional will asses the joint and ask you about how it happened.
• You should be sent for an MRI or X-ray to diagnose the ACL tear for definite.

Surgery

• Most cases of an ACL tear are treated with a surgical repair or reconstruction.
• This is done via arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery.
• Reconstruction of the torn ACL is performed using either a small part of one of the hamstring tendons or the patella tendon.
• In a repair, the two ens are usually stitched back together. This is used more commonly in partial ruptures.
• The decision not to operate is usually taken if the patient is old or not very active.
• In this case a rehabilitation program is followed to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint.

Rehabilitation

• Rehabilitation is now becoming more accelerated, with expected return to sport within 6 months in most cases.
• Rehabilitation starts from day one after surgery, with mobility exercises.
• Once movement is good, strengthening can begin

Further Information

• ACL injuries - for further information on treatment including rehabilitation, taping, sports massage, stretching and more visit sportsinjuryclinic.net