The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key knee stabilizers. Injuries usually occur with a sudden twist, jump or stop in sports like football, cricket, badminton, or basketball. If you suspect you have an ACL injury, visiting an orthopedic surgeon in Indore early can help protect your knee from further damage.
Symptoms and signs
- A “pop” sound at the time of injury;
- Fast swelling
- Difficulty bearing weight and pain
- A sensation of the knee giving way
- Limited range of motion
Diagnose:
Your orthopedic doctor in Indore will conduct specific stability tests on the knee and will generally recommend an MRI to confirm the tear and to look for any associated injuries such as damage to the meniscus.
Options for treatment
Not every ACL injury needs surgery. Low activity demands may be managed with partial tears or injuries in those:
- Rest, Ice, Compression
- Brace up
- Physiotherapy (structured) Modification of activity
If the ACL is completely torn, reconstruction is often recommended, especially in active people or if the knee remains unstable. The torn ligament is replaced with a graft, usually via arthroscopy through small incisions.
The need for timely care
Repeated giving way of an unstable knee can damage the meniscus and cartilage and increase risk of early arthritis.
Recovery
Whether you are treated with or without surgery, rehabilitation is important. It gives the knee strength, balance, and confidence back.
If you have had a knee injury with swelling or instability, don’t ignore it. Book a consultation for a thorough evaluation and treatment plan tailored to your lifestyle and objectives.
