Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury (ACL Injury)

An ACL injury is a tear to the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). Together with the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL), Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) and Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL), they are the four main stabilising ligaments of the knee. 

Causes and risk factors:

• A twisting force is applied to the knee while the foot is firmly planted, or upon landing
• A direct blow to the knee, particularly from the side (e.g., during a football tackle)
  

Signs and symptoms:

• An audible popping or cracking sound may be heard at the time of injury
• Severe pain and significant swelling
• Limited ability to move the knee, especially difficulty in fully straightening the leg
  

Self-care:

• Stop any activity immediately, and apply immediate first aid to the knee - RICE
  Rest: Avoiding activity or sport and limiting weight-bearing on the affected ankle.
  Ice: Applying ice to the injury for 15 to 20 minutes every 1 to 2 hours, ideally using crushed ice wrapped in a moist cloth or towel.
  Compression: Using an elastic bandage around the injured ankle to reduce swelling.
  Elevation: Keeping the injured ankle elevated above heart level, using a chair or pillows for support.
• Seek medical assessment

Diagnosis

• Imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans to determine if the ACL is torn
  

Treatment may include:

• Surgery to repair or reconstruct the torn ACL
• Pre-surgery rehabilitation, with physiotherapy, is recommended to strengthen the knee and reduce swelling, which can improve surgical outcomes and aid recovery