ACL injury – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

What is an ACL injury?

A tear in the anterior cruciate ligament (or ACL) used to be one of the most feared injuries, especially among sportspeople. It has ended the careers of numerous top athletes. But these days, with the strides made in orthopaedics, there are treatments for a torn ACL that provide complete recovery.

What happens in an ACL injury?

The anterior cruciate ligament, located in the centre of the knee, connects the thighbone to the shinbone. It helps in stabilizing the knee joint. 

ACL injuries occur in sportspeople who play high-intensity sports that put stress on the knee. Some of the common ways the ACL gets injured include:-

• Suddenly stopping while running

• Sudden change in direction when running

• Pivoting with foot fully on ground

• Landing awkwardly when jumping

• Sudden slowing down while running

• Direct trauma to the knee.

Sometimes, mild damage to the ACL is managed with ice and medication. The injury seems to get better, and the pain and swelling reduce in a few days. But the damage to the ligament has been triggered. Over time, the injury could worsen, leading to an ACL tear and pain that is debilitating.

When should you see a doctor?

Symptoms of an ACL injury are quite obvious. It includes:-

• A popping sensation in the knee

• Excruciating pain around the knee

• Inability to put weight on the leg

• Immediate swelling

• Loss of balance

• Buckling of the knee

An ACL injury would need immediate medical attention as the person would be in excruciating pain and unable to walk. It is important to get a prompt and accurate diagnosis to determine the severity of the injury and start proper treatment.

Treatment for an ACL injury

The type of treatment for an ACL injury depends on the severity of the tear. 

Mild injury

If the injury is mild, the orthopaedic may suggest RICE therapy and pain medication to reduce the pain and swelling. Physical therapy will be needed to strengthen the knee to prevent further damage to the ligament. 

Moderate injury

In a moderate case, apart from RICE therapy and pain medication, a brace may have to be worn to stabilize the knee. Crutches may be recommended for a while to avoid putting weight on the knee. Once the knee has stabilized, physical therapy will be started to strengthen the knee.

Severe injury

Surgery is quite common for a severe ACL rupture, especially if you are an athlete and want to continue in your sport. It may be recommended if your sport involves jumping, cutting, or pivoting. It may also be suggested if more than one ligament is torn or if your knee keeps buckling even after strengthening exercises.

Also Read:  How To Prevent Common Sports Injuries?

ACL surgery procedure

ACL surgery involves ligament reconstruction using graft tissue from another part of the leg to replace the torn one in the knee. It is an arthroscopic surgery where the orthopaedic surgeon makes two small cuts around the knee and, using a camera, replaces the tissue in the knee. It is a minimally invasive surgery, and hence there is very little risk. 

These days, stem cell therapy is also used as an alternative to surgery for an ACL tear as the stem cell injections help relieve pain and aid tissue repair. Your orthopaedist will be able to offer you the best solution. 

With the right help at the right time, an ACL injury can be treated successfully, and the athletes can get back to their sport in a very short time. Google “Orthopaedic Doctor Near Me” to find the best one close to you.