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The stiffness and height of the ski boot cause the forces to be transferred up the leg to the vulnerable knee joint. The length of the ski adds more force to the twisting motion. Skiing has additional risk factors that increase the chances of ACL injury. These sports require movements that cause the femur to pivot on the tibia. Basketball, skiing, and football are examples of sports in which a high number of ACL injuries occur. Sports in which the foot is planted, the knee is bent, and change in direction is emphasized are commonly associated with ACL injuries. The fibers of the ligament are completely torn. Grade III - This is the most severe ACL injury. Grade II - Trauma to the ligament is more severe. Grade I - Trauma to the ligament is relatively minor.
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The three grades of ACL injury range from mild to severe. It also helps prevent overstraightening and over-rotation of the femur on the tibia.Īn ACL injury usually occurs when the knee is sharply twisted or extended beyond its normal range of motion. The ACL prevents the tibia from sliding too far forward underneath the femur. This ligament runs from the top surface of the tibia diagonally into the large notch at the end of the femur. Gardner says.The anterior cruciate ligament is one of two ligaments inside the knee joint (the other is the PCL ).
ACL INJURY SERIES
“In order to minimize the chance of re-tear of the ACL, I like to use a series of functional and strength tests to ensure that the patient is, in fact, optimally rehabilitated from the injury.”įollowing doctor’s orders for recovery can be worth it: The success rate for ACL reconstruction done right and with proper rehabilitation, is very high, Dr. “The decision of when to return to sports and unrestricted activities requires collaboration between the patient, the surgeon, and the physical therapist,” Dr. A return to sports, depending on the individual’s goals, typically occurs between six and 12 months, and may include some work tailored toward the person’s particular activities. So is clear communication between the therapist and the surgeon. While recovery from the procedure is fairly straightforward, following instructions for physical therapy and rehabilitation is imperative. The duration of the operation will vary depending on the extent of the damage in the knee. The procedure is arthroscopic, which means it involves several small incisions and the insertion of a tiny camera and instruments to allow the surgeon to see inside the knee joint and to perform the operation with tiny instruments. The surgeon will first remove the damaged ligament, then replace it with a new one-either an autograft (tissue taken from another part of the body, such as the kneecap tendons or hamstring) or an allograft (tissue from a deceased donor). Over time, these associated injuries may predispose the knee joint to degenerative changes.ĪCL reconstruction is typically an outpatient procedure. It’s important to know that recurrent knee instability because of a dysfunctional ACL may result in additional damage to the menisci (the “shock absorbers” of the knee) and the cartilage. An older adult who just wants to walk and work out on a treadmill may choose to avoid surgery. Patients usually choose reconstruction if they want to continue their sport or other activity, or if they are younger and want to prevent or prolong the time until they develop arthritis in the area. You should also talk to your doctor about any preferences and concerns you may have. Your choice of treatment will depend on such factors as your age, your activity level, and the severity of your injury.