An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury is a common knee injury that affects the ligament connecting the thigh bone to the shin bone. It often occurs during sports activities that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, or direct blows to the knee. ACL injuries can range from mild sprains to complete tears and can significantly impact knee stability and function.

Key aspects of ACL injuries include:

• Causes: ACL injuries are frequently caused by non-contact mechanisms such as landing from a jump, pivoting or twisting the knee with the foot planted, or sudden deceleration while running. Direct impact or collision with another player can also lead to ACL tears.
• Symptoms: Common symptoms of an ACL injury include a popping sound or sensation at the time of injury, immediate pain and swelling, a feeling of instability or giving way in the knee, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg. The knee may also feel wobbly or loose.
• Diagnosis: Diagnosis of an ACL injury is typically based on a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). These tests help assess the extent of the injury and identify any associated damage to other structures in the knee.
• Treatment: The treatment for an ACL injury depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health. Conservative treatment options may include physical therapy, bracing, and activity modification. However, in cases of complete ACL tears or in individuals who require stability for sports or other physical activities, surgical reconstruction of the ACL may be recommended.
• Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation plays a vital role in recovering from an ACL injury, whether through conservative or surgical treatment. Physical therapy focuses on reducing pain and swelling, restoring knee range of motion and strength, improving balance and stability, and gradually reintroducing functional activities and sports-specific movements.