An ACL tear is a common injury that affects athletes and active individuals of all ages. The ACL plays a critical role in stabilizing the knee joint during movement.
If you or someone you know is dealing with knee pain, Precision Orthopaedic Specialties offers expert care. Contact one of our locations in Northeast Ohio today to book an appointment!
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key ligaments that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) inside the knee joint. The other is called the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). Together they cross each other to form an X inside the knee.
The ACL helps control the movement and stability of the knee, especially during pivoting, twisting, and jumping motions. When the ACL is overstretched or torn, it can result in significant pain and loss of function. ACL injuries are categorized as either partial or complete tears, with the severity of symptoms often depending on the degree of damage.
ACL injuries can happen to anyone, but certain groups are more at risk. Athletes who participate in high-intensity sports like football, soccer, basketball, and skiing are particularly vulnerable due to the constant stress on the knee joint. Women, in particular, have a higher risk of ACL tears compared to men, likely due to differences in anatomy, muscle strength, and hormonal influences.
Additionally, adolescents and adults over 35 who maintain active lifestyles may also be at increased risk, as the ligament can weaken with age and overuse.
Recognizing ACL tear symptoms early can help ensure timely treatment and prevent further injury. Common symptoms include:
In some cases, particularly with a partial ACL tear, the symptoms may be less severe, leading individuals to continue activity despite the injury. However, continuing to use the knee without proper treatment can worsen the condition and increase the risk of long-term damage to the joint.
An ACL tear typically occurs during activities that involve sudden changes in direction, jumping, or abrupt stops. Common causes include:
These activities put stress on the anterior cruciate ligament, and if the ligament is stretched beyond its capacity, it can result in an injury.
While it’s impossible to prevent all injuries, taking steps to reduce your risk of an ACL tear is essential, especially for athletes. A sports medicine physician can provide a preventative program to prevent ACL tears. Prevention programs usually include the following strategies:
Treatment for an anterior cruciate ligament injury can range from conservative approaches to surgical interventions, depending on the severity of the tear.
The recovery process from an ACL tear varies depending on the treatment chosen. For non-surgical approaches, recovery may take several months, with physical therapy being the primary focus.
Surgical recovery typically takes a year or more, with the help of a physical therapist guiding the process. Rehabilitation focuses on restoring knee function, strength, and range of motion, and patients are gradually reintroduced to physical activity.
During recovery, it’s essential to follow your sports medicine physician’s guidelines to avoid complications and ensure the ligament heals properly. Patience and persistence are key, as returning to sports too early can increase the risk of re-injury.
In some cases, particularly for partial tears, an ACL may heal sufficiently without surgery. This is often the case in older individuals or those who do not engage in high-intensity activities. However, for athletes and those with a completely torn ACL, surgery is usually the best option to restore knee stability and function.
If you’re experiencing ACL tear symptoms or have suffered a knee injury, it’s important to seek expert care. At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our team of knee specialists can evaluate your condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan. With locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, Middlefield, and Geneva, OH, our goal is to help you recover fully and return to your active lifestyle.
Whether you’re dealing with a torn ACL, considering ACL reconstruction, or need guidance on physical therapy, we are here to support your journey to recovery. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a knee specialist!
Medically reviewed by Kraig K. Solak, D.O.
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