The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Introduction

Sports and physical activities are essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, they also come with risks, including injuries. One common injury that athletes may experience is an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. The ACL is a crucial ligament that connects the thighbone to the shinbone, providing stability to the knee joint. ACL injuries are prevalent among athletes, especially those who play sports that involve sudden stops, jumps, and changes in direction, such as basketball, football, and soccer.  

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about ACL injuries, including their causes, symptoms, and treatments.

What is an ACL Injury? 

An ACL injury occurs when the ACL tears or stretches, causing pain and instability in the knee joint. ACL injuries are common among athletes who play high-impact sports or participate in activities that involve sudden stops and changes in direction. 

Causes of ACL Injuries

ACL injuries can occur due to various reasons, including:

• Sudden stops or changes in direction

• Awkward landings after a jump

• Direct impact to the knee

• Twisting or hyperextending the knee joint

• Weakness or instability in the knee

Symptoms of ACL Injuries

The most common symptoms of an ACL injury include:

• Sudden pain in the knee

• Swelling and stiffness in the knee joint

• Difficulty moving the knee or bearing weight on the affected leg

• A popping sensation in the knee at the time of injury

• Feeling like the knee is giving out or buckling

Diagnosing an ACL Injury

To diagnose an ACL injury, a physical therapist will perform a physical exam of the knee joint and may recommend additional tests, such as an MRI or X-ray, to confirm the diagnosis. 

Treatment for ACL Injuries

The treatment for an ACL injury will depend on the severity of the injury. In mild cases, conservative treatments such as protection, elevation, avoiding anti-inflammation, compression, education, load, optimism, vascularisation and exercise (PEACE &LOVE), physical therapy, and bracing may be sufficient.  However, in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or reconstruct the damaged ligament. 

Looking for further assistance with an ACL rehabilitation plan and one-to-one sessions contact us 

FAQ

Q1. Can ACL injuries be prevented? 

Yes, ACL injuries can be prevented by taking certain precautions, such as:

• Strengthening the muscles around the knee joint

• Wearing proper footwear and protective gear

• Using proper techniques while performing physical activities

• Warming up and stretching before exercising or playing sports

Q2. How long does it take to recover from an ACL injury? 

The recovery time for an ACL injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment method used. In general, it can take several months to a year to recover fully from an ACL injury.

Q3. Can I continue to play sports after an ACL injury? 

It depends on the severity of the injury and the treatment method used. In mild cases, you may be able to return to sports after a few weeks or months of rest and rehabilitation. However, in severe cases, you may need to take an extended break from sports or retire from playing altogether.

Q4. How can physical therapy help with ACL injuries? 

Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, improve range of motion, and reduce pain and swelling. It can also help you regain your mobility and function after an ACL injury.

Q5. Is surgery necessary for all ACL injuries? 

No, surgery is not necessary for all ACL injuries. In mild cases, conservative treatments such as protection, elevation, avoiding anti-inflammation, compression, education, load, optimism, vascularisation and exercise (PEACE &LOVE).