ACL Injury: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Reviewed By – Dr. Sameer Gohir
^{PhD, MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN}

What Is ACL Injury?

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury refers to a tear or sprain of this crucial ligament that stabilizes the knee. The ACL crosses in the middle of the knee, connecting the thighbone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia).

ACL injuries are common, particularly among athletes, and can significantly affect mobility and quality of life.

If knee pain or instability from an ACL injury is limiting your daily activities or sports, professional support is available. With clinics near Kent and Essex, Joint Injection Clinic offers expert care to help you recover and return to the activities you enjoy.

Schedule your consultation now!

ACL Injury Treatment near Kent and Essex

Common Causes of ACL Injury

ACL injuries frequently occur during sports or physical activities that involve:

Sudden Stops or Changes in Direction: Activities like basketball, soccer, and football often require rapid movements that strain the knee.
Landing Incorrectly: Jumping and landing without proper technique can place undue stress on the knee joint.
Direct Contact: Collisions or tackles can lead to ACL tears, especially in contact sports.
Over-extensions: Hyperextending the knee can also injure the ACL.

Risk Factors of ACL Injury

Being female: Women are more likely to suffer ACL injuries due to anatomical differences, hormonal factors, and muscle control variances.
Poor physical conditioning, inadequate training, and previous knee injuries can further heighten the risk.

Symptoms of ACL Injury

The symptoms of an ACL tear may include:

A “popping” sound at the time of injury.
Severe swelling within a few hours.
Intense pain, particularly when attempting to bear weight.
Loss of full range of motion.
A feeling of instability in the knee, as if it may give way.

How Is ACL Injury Diagnosed?

Diagnosing an ACL injury typically involves:

Physical Examination: Assessing the knee for swelling, pain, and range of motion.
Imaging Tests: X-rays can check for bone injuries, while an MRI can provide detailed images of soft tissues, including the ACL.

Treatment Options

The treatment of an ACL injury varies based on the severity of the tear and the patient’s activity level

Conservative Treatment:

Rest: Avoid activities that put stress on the knee.
Ice: Apply cold packs to reduce swelling and numb pain.
Compression: Use elastic bandages to minimize swelling.
Elevation: Elevate the leg above heart level as often as possible

Rehabilitation Program:

Engaging in physical therapy focusing on strengthening surrounding muscles and restoring range of motion is crucial.
Specific exercises may target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and core muscles to improve knee stability.

Surgical Options:

If the ACL tear is severe and the patient is physically active (like athletes), surgical intervention may be necessary.
ACL Reconstruction: A common procedure where the torn ligament is replaced with a graft. This can be obtained from the patient (autograft) or a donor (allograft).
Surgery is often followed by an extensive rehabilitation program that may take several months.

Recovery and Prognosis

Recovery from an ACL injury can take from six to nine months, depending on the severity of the tear and the treatment approach taken. Patients are typically encouraged to gradually return to physical activities, with guidance from healthcare providers.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing ACL injuries focuses on strength training and proper techniques. Suggested measures include:

Conditioning programs to enhance strength and proprioception.
Warm-up routines that emphasize stretching and flexibility.
Training on proper jumping and landing techniques to reduce undue stress on the knee.

Conclusion

ACL injuries are prevalent, particularly in high-demand sports. Understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and seeking timely treatment can improve outcomes and decrease the likelihood of recurrent injuries. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you suspect an ACL injury to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Get Help for ACL Injury at Joint Injection Clinic

If an ACL injury is causing knee pain, swelling, or instability, you don’t have to manage it alone. At Joint Injection Clinic, our experienced team provides evidence-based treatments to reduce pain, support knee stability, and aid your recovery.

We welcome patients at all three of our clinics:

From ultrasound-guided assessments to personalised physiotherapy and rehabilitation plans, our specialists are here to help you manage knee pain effectively and return to your daily activities with confidence.