WHAT IS ACL KNEE INJURY  

An ACL injury happens when you tear or overstretch the anterior collateral ligament on the inside of your knee. You can have a partial tear or a full tear. The ACL is most often injured during sports or other activities that cause you to make sudden stops and changes in direction. If you have an ACL injury, you may hear a loud popping sound or have severe pain or swelling in the knee. It also may feel like your knee is unstable. You may need surgery to reconstruct the ACL.

SOME COMMON SYMPTOMS OF ACL KNEE INJURY

Weakness, Stiffness or decreased movement, Popping or snapping sound from joint, Joint pain, inability to bear weight, Swelling, Joint instability, Difficulty walking, Guarding or favoring joint.

DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT

DIAGNOSIS: To diagnose ACL injury, your Doctor will take a medical history and do a physical exam. Your doctor may also order X-rays, an ultrasound, MRI, or arthroscopy.

TREATMENT: Treatment for ACL injury may include: 

1. Anti-inflammatory medications 

2. Physiotherapy 

3. Surgery if advised by the doctor

SELF CARE: ACL injuries need treatment from a doctor. But you can help ease the symptoms of an ACL injury at home by: 

1. Using crutches while your knee heals 

2. Putting ice packs wrapped in a thin towel on your knee for about 20 minutes every few hours 

3. Elevating your knee 

4. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

If you have any symptoms of an ACL injury, such as a loud popping sound at the time of an injury, knee pain, swelling, tenderness, or a feeling that your knee is not stable, see your doctor. Seek emergency care right away if your knee looks blue or feels cool after an injury.