Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

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What is Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury?

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most common and serious knee injuries, particularly in athletes involved in pivoting sports such as football, basketball, and soccer. These injuries range from mild sprains to complete tears, leading to significant knee instability. ACL injuries often occur during sudden changes in direction or awkward landings, with a higher incidence noted in female athletes compared to males.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury Statistics

  • ACL injuries are estimated to occur at a rate of 84 per 100,000 people annually in the USA.
  • Female athletes are 2.4 to 9.7 times more likely to suffer an ACL injury compared to their male counterparts in similar sports.
  • Source: National Center for Biotechnology Information
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury Anatomy

  • The ACL is a dense band of connective tissue extending from the femur to the tibia, essential for knee stability.
  • It arises from the medial aspect of the lateral femoral condyle and inserts into the intercondylar area of the tibia.
  • The ACL consists of two bundles: Anteromedial bundle (AMB) and Posterolateral bundle (PLB), each taut at different knee flexion angles.
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury
    Signs & Symptoms

  • Sudden onset of knee pain often following a "pop" sound during injury.
  • Significant swelling usually within the first few hours after injury.
  • Instability and inability to bear weight on the affected knee.
  • Restricted range of motion, particularly with knee extension.
  • Causes of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

  • Non-contact mechanisms: Sudden change in direction, deceleration, or landing awkwardly.
  • Contact mechanisms: Direct blow to the knee or collision during sports.
  • Biomechanical factors: Poor landing mechanics or muscle imbalances.
  • Risk Factors for Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

  • Female gender: Higher risk due to anatomical and hormonal differences.
  • Participation in high-risk sports: Such as soccer, basketball, and skiing.
  • Previous ACL injury: Increases the likelihood of re-injury.
  • Improper footwear and playing surface: Increases friction and risk of injury.
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    Prevalence of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

  • ACL injuries represent up to 40% of all sports-related knee injuries.
  • Higher incidence in athletes aged 15-25 years.
  • Females are 2 to 8 times more likely to sustain an ACL injury than males.
  • Assessment & Diagnosis of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

  • Lachman Test: Gold standard for detecting ACL tears.
  • Anterior Drawer Test: Assesses anterior tibial translation.
  • MRI: Provides detailed imaging of the ACL and associated structures.
  • Instrumented laxity testing: Provides objective measurement of knee stability.
  • Rehabilitation & Physiotherapy for Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

  • Early phase: Focus on reducing pain and swelling through cryotherapy and electrical stimulation.
  • Range of motion exercises: To restore knee movement, especially extension.
  • Strengthening exercises: For quadriceps, hamstrings, and core stability.
  • Proprioception and balance training: To improve joint stability and prevent future injuries.
  • Functional training: Sport-specific drills to prepare for return to activity.
  • Book your London physio session today with one of our Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury specialists

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    Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury FAQs

    The most common symptoms of an ACL tear include a sudden "pop" sound at the time of injury, significant swelling within a few hours, and a feeling of instability or "giving way" in the knee.

    Yes, some people can walk with a torn ACL, but the knee will likely feel unstable and there may be significant pain and swelling. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential.

    Treatment depends on the severity of the tear and the patient's activity level. Options include physiotherapy, bracing, or surgery followed by a structured rehabilitation program.