subject: Acl Strains And Tears: Know When You Need An Asheboro, N.c. Professional [print this page] Among the most common of knee injuries are ACL strains and tears. Those most likely to suffer the pain of an ACL injury are athletes who are active in sports like basketball, football and soccer. A person who suffers ACL strains and tears may require orthopedic surgery to regain complete knee function, depending on the severity of the injury. The orthopedic surgeons in Asheboro, N.C. will determine the best course of action based on the injury and your activity level.
ACL strains and tears
Nearly 50 percent of all ACL strains and tears occur in conjunction with other knee damage, such as injury to ligaments, cartilage or the meniscus. A ligament injury is considered a sprain and is graded based on severity.
o Grade 1: This is mild damage, where the knee joint is still stable, but the ligament is slightly stretched.
o Grade 2: This is stretching of the ligament to a point where there is looseness. This is sometimes referred to as a partial tear. This is the least common grade, as most ACL injuries are a near complete or complete tear.
o Grade 3: A grade 3 sprain may require orthopedic surgery. The knee joint is unstable and the ligament is completely torn, or almost completely torn in two. .
ACL strains and tears can occur in many ways, including the following:
o Rapid change of direction
o Sudden stops
o Landing incorrectly after a jump
o Direct impact, such as from a tackle in football or another player falling into the knee
Studies show that women in certain sports suffer ACL strains and tears much more frequently than men. This is generally due to differences in neuromuscular control, muscular strength and physical conditioning. Other possible causes, according to orthopedic surgeons, are differences in lower leg alignment, ligament laxity, pelvic alignment and estrogen effects on ligament characteristics.
Symptoms
ACL strains and tears are normally accompanied by an instant giving of the knee, and possibly a popping sound, depending on the severity. Other symptoms include:
o Pain, accompanied by swelling within 24 hours. When ignored, the pain and swelling may subside. However, if a person attempts to resume strenuous activity, they risk causing further damage, including damage to the knee's natural cushion (meniscus).
o Limited motion and range
o Extreme tenderness in the joint
o Pain and discomfort when walking
If you are experiencing pain in the knee joint, you have two options. You can choose to ignore it and hope for the best, possibly causing even more damage. Secondly, and much smarter, is choosing to have it looked at, which will allow you to have the peace of mind you deserve. Visit your sports medicine doctor in Asheboro, N.C. and let them check for the possibility of ACL strains and tears.
