ACL Tear Specialist

What is my ACL?

Your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four ligaments that form each knee joint. Ligaments are tough bands of connective tissue that hold bones together.

Your knee joint consists of three bones, as well as your kneecap. Your ACL is situated diagonally in the middle of the knee joint. It, along with the posterior cruciate ligament, controls the back and forth movement of your knee. It also holds the tibia in place just behind the femur and works to keep your knee joint stable. 

What causes ACL injuries?

A torn ACL is among the most common types of sports injuries. Your knees play a vital role in movement and can also withstand considerable strain. 

ACL damage usually occurs during movements that create sudden force. Examples include:

• Jumping and landing
• Sudden changes in direction
• Sudden stopping
• Overstretching the knee joint
• Traumatic knee injury

Many ACL tears happen while playing sports or engaging in exercise. It’s possible, however, to damage your ACL during a simple fall or a missed step on a staircase.

How do I know if I’ve torn my ACL?

Many people who suffer a torn ACL report hearing a “popping” noise at the time of injury. Other indications of ACL damage include:

• Sudden pain
• Swelling within 24 hours
• Tenderness near the knee joint
• Pain when walking or putting weight on the affected knee
• Limited range of motion in the knee

If you notice these changes, schedule a diagnostic exam with Premier Orthopedics right away. 

What can be done to repair a torn ACL?

Your treatment path depends on the extent of the damage to your ACL. Some minor tears can heal with a combination of physical therapy and bracing to stabilize the joint. In other cases, surgical intervention is the best way to address the problem. 

One approach is called an ACL reconstruction and works to replace damaged ligament tissue with a graft. The graft material could come from another location in your body or from a deceased donor. There are various ways to complete ACL reconstruction, and your specialist will discuss your options in detail before moving forward. 

An ACL tear can cause significant pain and limited mobility. If you sustain a serious knee injury, call Premier Orthopedics to book an appointment right away. Online scheduling is also available and allows you to book from home, any time of day or night.