ACL Tear in Knee
One of the most common knee injuries is an ACL tear (anterior cruciate ligament sprain or tear). Athletes who participate in high demand sports like soccer, football, and basketball are more likely to have ACL knee injuries.
Injuries range from mild, such as a small tear, to severe, such as when the ligament tears completely or when the ligament and part of the bone separate from the rest of the bone. About half of all ACL injuries damage other knee structures such as cartilage, meniscus, or other ligaments, so early treatment is important.
Without treatment, an ACL tear is less able to control knee movement, and the bones are more likely to rub against each other. The abnormal bone movement can also damage the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones and can trap and tear the menisci that cushion the knee joints. This damage can lead to osteoarthritis.
What Can Help an ACL Tear?
Start first aid right away: Rest, Ice, Compression & Elevation will reduce swelling & pain. Seek treatment as soon as possible, especially if you hear a popping noise and feel your knee give out at the time of injury,have severe pain, cannot move the knee, begin limping, or have swelling at the injury site.
Depending on your situation Dr Grondel might recommend anti-inflammatory medication, steroid injections, brace, physical therapy, etc. In addition to helping your pain Dr Grondel will use digital imaging to determine if there is damage to your tendons and joints.
When is Surgery an Option?
When you have exhausted all other forms of treatment and your pain has started to interfere with everyday activities you should consider surgery to repair ACL tear in the knee.