What is the ACL:
The Anterior cruciate ligament is a strong band of tissue that runs from the femur to the front of the tibia (thigh and leg bones). It is one of the four major ligaments of the knee and often the most prone to injury, especially in athletes. Most of these injuries occur in sports that require pivoting (netball, soccer and basketball). Pivoting could be described as the planting of the foot on the ground whilst the upper body and leg turns or ‘pivots’ on the foot. This places strain on the ligament and it experiences trauma and or tearing. Interestingly, there is a higher incidence of ACL tears in women when compared to men participating in similar activities. Some research states that ACL injuries are the most common cause of extended absence from sport.
How do I know I have an ACL tear?
- There is often an audible ‘pop’ or sudden crack heard whilst the knee ‘pops out and then in again.’
- Extreme pain, especially a few minutes after the tear or ‘pop.’
- The patient cannot continue with activity
- Swelling in the knee- although in some cases, this may be delayed.
Most athletes presenting with ACL tears usually report to their doctor or podiatrist 24 -48 hours after the injury. By this stage, the knee is difficult to examine. If you suspect an ACL injury, one should consult your podiatrist or sports physician within the first hour of injury.
Your podiatrist will examine the knee and conduct a few knee tests to determine whether the ACL is completely torn or partially torn. He or she might send you for an x-ray to ascertain whether there is bony involvement.
Treatment:
For the most part, complete ruptures of the ACL require surgery. Your podiatrist will refer you to the orthopaedic surgeon who will decide on the next course of action. After surgery your physician will prescribe rehabilitation therapy, usually with a physiotherapist and or biokinetist. This therapist will facilitate normal function of the knee in accordance with a healthy time frame of inactivity and rehab. If the ACL is just injured and strained, or if you are post surgery and rehab, your podiatrist might prescribe a supportive knee brace. The brace will allow for normal knee functioning but will aid in preventing over-extension of the knee and ‘pivoting’ of the knee. This brace is often prescribed for activity as a preventative measure.
ACL degeneration; see your podiatrist if you have any of the following symptoms; You may have an ACL injury:
- Your knee often ‘gives way’ during activity
- You have suffered a minor ACL’ incident’ recently
- Knee swelling post activity
- Participate in a sport that requires pivoting and experience knee pain
If you experience any knee injury, consult your podiatrist within the first hour of the incident.
