WHO?
High velocity sports players
Footballers
Soccer players
Basketballers
WHAT?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is an important stabilising structure within the knee joint. Along with the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) it prevents movement of the femur (the thigh bone) and the tibia (the lower leg bone) in relation to one another.
WHEN?
ACL injury most commonly occurs with sudden changes of direction (rotation of the knee with a planted foot), incorrect landing from a height or direct contact.
HOW?
When the ACL is stressed in an inappropriate way a tear may occur. ACL Injury is often accompanied by injury of surrounding knee structures, such as other ligaments or cartilage. After injuring the ACL tendon you may notice immediate swelling, pain and tenderness, inability to fully bend or straighten the knee and difficulty walking.
MANAGEMENT?
Your Alkimos Physiotherapist will firstly assess your knee to confirm and determine the severity of your injury. You may be sent for imaging especially if a complete rupture of the ligament is suspected or multiple structures are affected. In this case, surgery to repair or reconstruct the ligament may be advised.
Whether or not surgery is required, your physiotherapist will provide you with an individualised treatment management plan to guide you rehabilitation. Your treatment may include:
Ice packs
Bracing
Massage
Mobilisation
Stretches
Range of motion exercises
Strengthening exercises
Functional exercises
