The ACL or anterior cruciate ligament:- * Runs diagonally in the middle of the knee * Prevents the tibia from sliding out in front of the femur * Provides rotational stability to the knee
Causes of ACL tear • Injury to side of knee(ex: football tackle) • Overextending knee joint • Changing direction abruptly while running • Landing from a jump • Sudden turning (Note: Basketball, football, soccer, and skiing are common sports linked to ACL tears)
Symptoms • Knee makes audible pop when extending • Swelling around the knee joint • Pain when putting weight on injured leg
Immediate First Aid • Rest with foot elevated • Apply ice on the affected area • Pain medication • Don’t put weight on the leg (use a crutch)
Treatment – ACL reconstruction surgery * Surgeon removes damaged ligament * Replaces it with a segment of tendon (grafting) * Graft serves as scaffolding on which new ligament tissue can grow
Rehabilitation • Physiotherapy • Pain medication • Brace to stabilize knee • Crutches to avoid putting weight on your knee.
Prevention of ACL tear • Use proper techniques when playing sports • Learn how to reduce stress placed on the ACL. • Use of knee braces during vigorous athletic activity
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