The anterior cruciate ligament is the most important structure of the knee joint. It is located between the femur and tibia. It has functions such as providing knee stability and controlling movements. It is frequently seen in athletes. What is an anterior cruciate ligament injury? It can cause serious disabilities and often requires surgical intervention.
What are the Symptoms of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury?
An ACL injury is a serious knee injury that most often occurs during sports activities. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but most people experience similar symptoms.
Individuals often experience sudden and severe pain when injured. This pain is usually felt in the middle or surrounding area of the knee and makes it difficult to move. A “popping” sound coming from the knee during the injury is a clear sign that the ACL has ruptured. This sound usually indicates that the rupture occurred suddenly.
Swelling in the knee area that develops quickly is an early sign of injury. Swelling is usually caused by blood leaking into the joint as a result of the ligament tear and becomes apparent within a few hours. People have difficulty bending or extending their knees normally. This restriction in mobility can indicate the severity of the ligament damage.
Damage to the anterior cruciate ligament, which provides stability in the knee joint, causes a feeling of instability and release. It is especially seen during sudden movements. It can affect the person's daily activities. The knee's supporting capacity may decrease after the injury. The person may not be able to fully step on their foot.
Symptoms of an ACL injury should be taken seriously and a healthcare professional should be consulted as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment speeds up the healing process and prevents complications.
What is Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury and What Causes It?
The ACL is the structure that provides stability to the knee joint. It is located between the femur and tibia and prevents the knee from sliding forward. It also controls rotational movements. Its injury is caused by sudden movements during sports. The injury is considered a serious injury.
Anterior cruciate ligament injury occurs when the ligament's tensile capacity is exceeded. Sudden and forceful movements can cause the ligament to completely or partially tear. It is seen with severe pain, a feeling of emptying in the knee and swelling. The method varies according to the ligament and activities. Surgical and conservative methods are preferred.
The causes of these injuries are often based on similar factors. In sports such as football, basketball or tennis, the ligament is put under great stress when changing direction. This can lead to injury.
When landing after jumping, the knee is in an incorrect position, which puts excessive pressure on the ligament. This pressure can cause ruptures. Blows to the knee area cause the ligament to rupture. It is mostly seen in sports such as football or skiing.
Applying excessive force to the knee joint causes the ligament to exceed its limits. This can result in rupture of the ligament. Sports techniques and appropriate equipment reduce the risk of injury. Regular warm-up and stretching exercises are especially important.
How Is Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Treated?
Anterior cruciate ligament injury treatment varies depending on the severity of the injury, the person's age, activity level and lifestyle. Treatment methods are divided into two categories: surgical and non-surgical. Proper treatment allows the person to return to their daily lives in a healthy way.
In order to reduce swelling and pain, rest should be taken at the first stage. Ice can be applied to the knee. This controls inflammation. A regular physical therapy program is applied to strengthen the muscles and increase the stability of the knee. The load on the ligament is reduced with special exercises. Devices such as knee pads are used. In this way, the knee is protected. The feeling of instability is minimized.
In active individuals and athletes, anterior cruciate ligament injuries usually require surgical intervention. Arthroscopic surgery is preferred for repairing or reconstructing the ligament. During this procedure, the torn part of the ligament is removed. A new ligament is placed in its place. This new ligament is taken from the patient's own tissue or from a donor.
After surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is started. This process usually lasts up to 12 months. Physical therapy ensures complete healing of the ligament. It also helps it return to its former functions. In addition, rehabilitation, What is an anterior cruciate ligament injury? It is of critical importance for a safe return to sports or an active lifestyle, which is an important step in answering the question.
