ACL tears are a common injury among athletes and individuals of all ages, but how bad are they? You’ve heard of them, but if you haven’t experienced one yourself, learn more about the symptoms, how they affect the knee, how a tear gets diagnosed and treated, and how best to prevent ACL injuries. With any luck, you’ll stay informed and on your feet.
Symptoms of ACL Tears
ACL tears are not a pleasant experience, easily identified by several specific symptoms. The most immediate and noticeable symptom of an ACL tear is pain. During the moment of injury, intense pain typically radiates through the knee, and you may even feel or hear something pop. Following the initial pain, swelling usually sets in immediately or within a few hours. The affected knee may also be tender to the touch around the joint areas.
A strong indication of an ACL tear is the sensation of your knee suddenly giving way or instability when you try to put weight on it. Many people describe this as feeling their knee “giving out” under pressure, as the ACL is crucial for stabilizing the knee during movement.
If you experience some or all of these symptoms, you must seek immediate medical help. Early treatment leads to better outcomes in almost all cases.
Impact of ACL Tears on Knee Function
When an ACL tear occurs, it doesn’t just cause immediate pain and discomfort. The impact on the knee and its function can be long-lasting and serious. The body’s ability to bear weight on the affected knee significantly decreases, resulting in prolonged periods of disability where walking or even standing can be difficult.
An ACL tear can increase one’s susceptibility to knee osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease. This is because the tear changes the mechanics of the knee, causing wear and tear on the cartilage, eventually leading to osteoarthritis. As a result, even after the ACL has healed, long-term complications can persist.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosing an ACL tear typically involves a physical examination and an MRI scan to visualize the extent of the tear. At OrthoSports Associates, our team of experienced orthopedic experts can provide a comprehensive diagnosis and explain your treatment options.
For minor tears, non-surgical treatments may be recommended, which include physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and bracing to provide additional support. However, for more severe tears, surgical intervention may be necessary. Our skilled surgeons at OrthoSports can perform an ACL reconstruction using a graft to replace the torn ligament and restore function to the knee.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Rehabilitation is a key part of recovering from an ACL tear. Physical therapy after surgery helps rebuild knee strength and mobility. The recovery time depends on the severity of the tear and the person’s overall health, but most people can gradually return to normal activities within a few months. Here at Orthosports Associates we have skilled specoialized therapists ready to help patients fully recover from their injuries.
Preventing ACL Injuries
The risks of ACL injuries can be decreased by incorporating certain measures into your daily routine. Warm up properly before engaging in physical activity, strengthen your knee muscles with exercises, and be mindful of your movements during sports and physical activities, avoiding sudden stops or changes in direction.
Care for Your Body with Help From OrthoSports Associates
ACL tears can severely impact the functionality of your knee and lead to long-term complications. However, with early diagnosis, proper treatment, and diligent rehabilitation, recovery is possible. OrthoSports Associates offers personalized orthopedic care tailored to your needs. Visit our website today to learn more about ACL tear treatment and prevention. Our team of expert orthopedic surgeons is here to help you get back on your feet and back to doing what you love.
Image Credit:Shutterstock/Atiketta Sangasaeng