Insight Orthopedics & Sports Medicine – The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is an important component of the knee that provides support and stability during movement. ACL injuries are common in athletes who participate in high-impact sports that involve sudden stops or jumps, young adults and teenagers, and even recreational sports enthusiasts who engage in activities like running or tennis. Although ACL injuries are treatable, they are serious due to the ACL’s role in stabilizing the knee joint, and require professional care. Recognizing the signs of an ACL injury early on can make a significant difference in your ability to make a full recovery and return to your favorite activities. Here are a few indicators of an ACL injury, including some of the most common causes of ACL injuries, and what to do if you suspect an ACL injury has occurred.
What Causes an ACL Injury?
ACL injuries are often caused by activities that place excessive strain on the knee joint, including:
- Sudden stops, deceleration, or pivots
- Jumping and landing awkwardly or with excessive force
- Direct blows to the knee in contact sports, such as football
- Twisting the knee, especially when the foot is planted
Top Indicators an ACL Injury Has Occurred
Pronounced Pop or Snap
The most common indicator that an ACL injury has occurred is the sensation or sound of a pop in the knee. This is due to the sudden, forceful stretching or tearing of the ligament. This popping feeling is often followed by immediate pain and instability of the knee joint.
Intense Pain
Pain from an ACL injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but it is typically described as sharp, intense, and immediate. Pain is primarily localized to the knee, but it may also radiate down the leg. As time passes, this often progresses to a throbbing pain and a feeling of tightness in the knee that is exacerbated by trying to bear weight on the injured leg.
Noticeable Swelling
Within a few hours of an ACL injury, it is common for rapid swelling to occur. This is due to bleeding in the knee joint and the body’s natural inflammatory response to an injury. Swelling usually peaks within 24 hours and can persist for several days or weeks, making the knee stiff and difficult to move.
Knee Instability
After an ACL injury, it is likely you will experience significant knee instability. People usually describe the knee as feeling unstable or as if it might give way when bearing weight. This is because the ACL is responsible for preventing excessive forward movement of the shinbone. When a tear occurs, this restraint is lost, resulting in abnormal movement or shifting of the knee joint. In some cases, an ACL tear can also damage other structures in the knee, such as the meniscus or cartilage, which can further contribute to instability.
Limited Range of Motion
Because of the pain, swelling, and instability described above, an ACL injury also contributes to a limited range of motion in the knee. You will likely find it difficult to fully bend or straighten the knee, which will make it difficult to move as normal. If not treated properly, scar tissue can form within the knee joint, leading to ongoing stiffness and limited flexibility.
Inability to Continue Activity
Due to the combination of pain, instability, and swelling, most people who experience an ACL injury are not able to continue with the activity they were doing when the injury occurred. Even if you think you can proceed with the activity that caused the injury, this is not advised due to the risk of further injury and prolonged recovery.
What to Do If You Suspect an ACL Injury Has Occurred?
If you have experienced any of the indicators of an ACL injury, there are a number of steps you should take to minimize further damage and begin the recovery process.
- Stop all activity immediately to avoid additional damage.
- Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling and pain.
- Wrap the knee with an elastic bandage to control swelling.
- Keep the knee elevated to reduce swelling.
- Visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
Whether you are an athlete or a casual sports enthusiast, knowing the signs of an ACL injury and what to do if one occurs is crucial for ensuring you get the right treatment and prevent any long-term damage to your knee. If you have experienced an ACL injury, the team at Insight Orthopedics & Sports Medicine can help you recover and get back to your favorite activities as soon as possible. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
FAQ
Q: How is an ACL injury diagnosed?
A: Physicians diagnose ACL injuries through physical assessments to check for knee stability and signs of ligament damage, as well as imaging tests such as an MRI, to view detailed images of the knee.
Q: Will an ACL injury heal on its own?
A: In most cases, when a partial ACL tear occurs, an injury will heal with rest, physical therapy, and other conservative treatment. In severe cases where a complete tear has occurred, surgery may be required.
Q: What can I do to prevent an ACL injury?
A: Although ACL injuries cannot be prevented, there are a number of things you can do to reduce the risk of an injury. This includes strengthening the muscles around the knees, always following proper techniques when participating in sports, and wearing proper footwear and protective gear.