Understanding and Treating ACL Tears: Expert Advice
An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is a common knee injury that occurs when the ACL, one of the major ligaments in the knee, is torn or ruptured. This injury often happens during sports activities that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, or direct impact to the knee.
Symptoms of an ACL tear may include a popping sound at the time of injury, severe pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty in bearing weight on the affected leg. In some cases, individuals may also experience limited knee range of motion and a feeling of the knee “giving way” during physical activity.
Diagnosis of an ACL tear typically involves a physical examination, imaging tests such as MRI, and a thorough review of the patient’s medical history. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the tear and the individual’s activity level, but may include physical therapy, bracing, and surgical intervention.
Proper management and rehabilitation of an ACL tear are crucial to restoring knee stability, reducing pain, and preventing long-term complications such as arthritis. With appropriate care, most individuals can regain strength and return to their normal activities.
