What is an Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and why is it important?

First off, we should talk about what an ACL is.

• The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is a very important ligament in your knee that helps maintain stability between your Femur (thigh bone) and your Tibia (shin bone), especially during change of direction movements in sports.

How is it commonly injured?

• ACL Sprains are common injuries with change of direction, or cutting movements while the foot is firmly planted into the ground. This is why it is a common injury in football, soccer and basketball athletes where they are changing directions under high speeds and body contact.

• When an athlete or individual experiences and ACL tear, they may experience some of these symptoms:

  • A loud “pop” sensation that is quite painful in the knee

  • Inability to walk or bear weight on the injured leg

  • Rapid knee swelling

  • Decreased knee range of motion

  • Moderate-severe pain

Are there different types of ACL tears/sprains?

• Grade 1: The ligament is stretched slightly but the knee is still relatively stable.

• Grade 2: The ligament is partially torn; this type of sprain is rare.

• Grade 3: The ligament is a fully torn and the knee is unstable as a result. Surgery is typically necessary for full repair.

  Grades 1/2 can be treated and have really good outcomes with conservative physical therapy and strength train.  

What steps do I take after I tear my ACL?

• After you consult with your doctor and get imaging (normally an MRI) to confirm your ACL sprain, you will likely be referred to a Physical Therapist to do Pre-hab.

• Pre-hab can be extremely important and greatly boost your surgical outcomes. The focus on pre-habbing your knee before surgery is to reduce swelling, regain lost range of motion, and maintain as much strength and balance as possible before going into surgery.

Make sure you do your research!!!

• Make sure you find a surgeon who is a good fit for you and will meet your needs. If you need recommendations, reach out to us and we are happy to give some recommendations.

• Before you start going to PT, you should call and ask some of the following questions:

  • How often do you see ACL repairs in patients like myself (athlete, sport specific, etc)?

  • What does your facility look like and what equipment does it have?

  • Will I be seen one on one with my treating Physical therapist? Or will I will be working with an Aide/tech?

  • Will I be given stuff to do outside of PT at my gym?

  • Will I be able to get in contact with my PT outside of business hours in case I have any concerns?

• These are some good starting questions to see if you will be a good fit for the clinic and have a successful course of rehab.

This is a very brief overview of the ACL, but if you are looking for a place to rehab and great back to your sports at 100%, give us a call (512-481-2777)!