What is an ACL Injury?
An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury is one of the most common and well-known orthopedic injuries. The ACL is a very important ligament because it prevents the tibia (shin bone) from sliding in front of the femur (thigh bone). The ACL stabilizes the knee while walking, running, jumping, and moving from side to side. The posterior collateral ligament is within the knee and prevents the femur from sliding off the anterior edge of the tibia and to prevent the tibia from displacing posterior (similar to the anterior cruciate ligament ) and is not as commonly injured.
Common Causes:
Your kneecap sits in front of the joint to provide some protection. Bones are connected to other bones by ligaments. There are four primary ligaments in your knee. They act like strong ropes to hold the bones together and keep your knee stable.
- Suddenly changing directions
- Suddenly stopping
- Landing from a jump
- Direct injury to the knee
Symptoms of an ACL Injury may include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Instability
- Limited range of motion
- Stiffness
When you arrive for your initial consultation, Orthopedic Physicians Alaska (OPA) knee specialist will evaluate your areas of concern, discuss your symptoms, and develop a customized and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This evaluation is a necessary part of diagnosing your condition and providing the best possible care.
When diagnosing an ACL injury, the OPA specialist will provide:
- A medical, injury, and symptom history review
- A physical examination
- Multiple view x-rays
Once an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease symptoms as quickly as possible.
Common Treatments:
Nonsurgical treatment options are used to treat an ACL sprain or partial tear. The following may be included in a customized OPA treatment plan:
NSAIDs
Decrease inflammation and pain.
Immobilization
A sling immobilizes the shoulder so the injury can heal.
Physical Therapy
OPA approved physical therapist will provide exercises to strengthen the collateral ligament and surrounding muscles, ligaments and tendons.
