Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Strain/Rupture is one of the most common knee injuries involving the knee. You may have heard of professional athletes suffering from this injury/condition.The anterior cruciate ligament is the ligament in the knee joint that is attached diagonally forming an “X” figure with the posterior cruciate ligament. These ligaments are responsible for controlling the knee’s back and forth motion. These also provide rotational stability of the knee. These also prevent sliding of tibia anteriorly in front of the femur.
An ACL tear or injury can occur if you: Get hit very hard on the side of your knee, such as during a football tackle. Overextend your knee joint. Quickly stop moving and change direction while running, landing from a jump, or turning.
The instability caused by the torn ligament leads to a feeling of insecurity and giving way of the knee, especially when trying to change direction on the knee. The knee may feel like it wants to slip backwards. There may be activity-related pain and/or swelling. The knee may have limited range of motion.
Treatment may vary depending on the extent of the injury, and the patient’s need for invasive treatment. There may be 2 types of approaches, which are:
You may discuss with our orthopedic specialists as to which tendon is most likely a good donor for the graft.
The best way to prevent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear or injuries is to stretch and strengthen the leg muscles, especially the front and back muscles of the thigh (quadriceps and hamstrings). You may help prevent ACL tear if you: Avoid wearing shoes with cleats in contact sports. Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes.