Common diagnostic procedures can include: However, we may use advanced diagnostic procedures and technology to effectively diagnose, inform treatment and carefully monitor the condition. Most ligament injuries can be diagnosed by thorough physical examination. Structures of your non-injured knee will be compared to the structures of your injured knee. If ACL injury is suspected, we perform a physical examination and ask questions about symptoms.
Being unable to put weight on the knee or the sensation that the knee is “giving out”.Swelling that begins within a few hours of the injury.Pain on the outside and back of the knee.A loud “pop” sound as the ligament tears.
In every way, we work to demonstrate the utmost in excellent care to those who trust us with their health. At Baptist Health, you have access to the region’s most comprehensive, multidisciplinary team of specialists and innovative therapies, including many available only through specialized clinical trials. You will appreciate timely appointments and a professional, friendly atmosphere where we take time to listen to your concerns. An ACL injury typically occurs when the foot is planted and the knee gets bent backward, is twisted or bent side-to-side, especially if more than one of these movements occurs simultaneously.īaptist Health is known for advanced, superior care for patients with orthopedic conditions and the diagnosis, treatment and management of ACL injury. A sprain or tear of this ligament is common during sports participation.
TORN ACL SYMPTOMS FULL
Consulting a physical therapist is highly recommended to make a full recovery during this recovery process. To reveal the extent of the injury an X-Ray or an MRI will be needed. A torn ACL will require surgery and a 8-9 month recovery period. Ice should be applied, non-directly, to the knee for 20-30 minutes multiple times per day. Immediate treatment should be the RICE method – resting, icing the knee, compression, and elevation. Inability of the joint to bear any weight.Swelling within a couple of hours of the injury.Usually a “pop” is heard when the injury occurs.This causes the femur and tibia to connect at a deeper angle (known as the Q angle) which means the ACL is put under greater pressure during twisting and turning. In addition, women typically have a wider pelvis than men. Thus, overuse of these muscles can weaken the ACL. Muscles that surround the ACL, such as the hamstring muscles, takes longer to build and repair in women. The anatomical difference between the two genders is the reason women are more susceptible. Women are more prone to a torn ACL or other ACL injuries. Falling in sports such as skiing or football.Pivoting with your foot firmly planted in the ground.A quick or sudden change in direction such as sidestepping movements.Some of the motions or scenarios are highlighted below: Most ACL injuries are no-contact injuries.
There may also be bruises on the bone underneath the cartilage. In the most severe cases, the meniscus, articular cartilage, and other ligaments are also damage. In simple terms, it’s a sprain of the of the ACL which, in turn, increases the risk of the joint buckling under any kind of stress or quick movement. Providing a helping hand to the ACL are the medial collateral (MCL), lateral collateral (LCL), anterior cruciate (ACL) and posterior cruciate (PCL) ligaments that keep the joint in place so you can walk, jump, run comfortably.įurthermore, ensuring that the joint doesn’t easily buckle under intense pressure are the medial meniscus and lateral meniscus that act as the shock absorbers. A torn ACL is reported in over 200,000 people per year, with most injuries occurring in athletes. It’s the link between the femur and the tibia and also ensures the rotational stability of the joint. The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of the 4 pillar ligaments that make up the knee joint.