Physiopedia:Symptoms and treatment of an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury
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Things to look out for[edit | edit source]
Please seek immediate help if an injury to your knee causes symptoms similar to that of an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury.
Disclaimer[edit | edit source]
The content on or accessible through Physiopedia is for informational purposes only. Physiopedia is not a substitute for professional advice or expert medical services from a qualified healthcare provider. For more details please see the related site pages:
Overview[edit | edit source]
The knee joint is made up of three bones; thigh (femur), shin (tibia), and the kneecap (patella). The kneecap gives the joint some protection at the front of the joint. There are ligaments within the knee joint that connect these bones together and provide the joint with stability. The four major ligaments are the medial collateral ligament, lateral collateral ligament, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), and the posterior cruciate ligament. There is also the medial and lateral meniscus which provides additional stability and act as a shock absorber in the knee joint.
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is a strong, flexible band of tissue inside the knee joint connecting the femur (thigh) to the tibia (shin). It forms a cross shape with the posterior cruciate ligament. The ACL is an important structure within the knee joint.
The ACL provides stability to the knee. It is vital in preventing the femur sliding backwards on the tibia and stops the tibia sliding forward under the femur. It also resists rotational loads, which occur when the foot is planted and the leg pivots.
When the ACL is injured, the knee becomes unstable or may even give way, especially when trying to stop or turn quickly.
Causes[edit | edit source]
risk factors, epidemiology in terminology/language suitable to patients.
The cause of the injury can be broken down into two.
Non-contact: occurs when the knee is exposed to sudden decelerating forces combined with rotational forces, e.g., changing direction when pivoting, running or landing from a jump. Hyperextension (too much straightening of the knee) or extreme hyperflexion (too much bending of the knee) can also damage the ACL
Contact: can occur when there is direct trauma or impact to the outside of the knee or lower leg.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
common and less common symptoms. severity, intensity and nature of symptoms in terminology/language suitable to patients. relate to activities of daily living.
When the ACL is injured, you may hear a “pop” or feel a popping sensation in your knee. You might feel extreme pain and be unable to continue a task or activity.
There might also be quick onset of swelling, loss of range of motion and a feeling of instability and “giving way” when weight-bearing.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
overview of diagnostic procedures
Exercises[edit | edit source]
evidence-based exercises for the specific condition in terminology/language suitable to patients. be mindful that some patients may not have access to a gym or certain equipment
Management[edit | edit source]
short and long-term management of condition. medication. general health and wellbeing e.g. nutrition and sleep.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
evidence-based advice on preventative measures
Resources[edit | edit source]
links or information on specialist services, charities, or organisations that may offer additional help and support
