ACL Tear

The ACL tear is a common knee injury that occurs when there is a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee joint. The ACL is a major ligament in the knee that provides stability and controls the movement of the joint. A tear in the ACL can result in pronounced pain, swelling, and a feeling of instability in the knee. It may also impact the range of motion of the leg.

ACL tears are not uncommon and can happen during routine daily activities. However, they are more prevalent among athletes because there are sudden stops, changes in direction, jumps, or direct impact on the knee frequently during sporting activities.

At Kimball Health Services, we offer treatment options, including surgical intervention, if necessary, to address ACL injuries and tears.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four major ligaments in your knee. Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect the bones and provide stability to the joints.

The knee joint is made up of three bones: the femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone), and patella (kneecap). The ACL is positioned diagonally in the knee, crossing from the back of the femur to the front of the tibia.

The primary functions of the ACL include:

Stabilizing the knee: The anterior cruciate ligament helps prevent excessive forward movement of the tibia. ACL, along with the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), contributes to the overall stability of the knee joint.
Controlling rotation: It also plays a role in controlling the rotational knee movement. It stabilizes the knee during movements like bending (of the knee) and the rotation of the knee.

Causes of ACL Tears

An ACL tear is a sudden injury that occurs due to a combination of factors, often involving sudden movements that put significant stress on the knee. Common scenarios include:

Sudden stops or sharp changes in direction are common in sports like soccer, basketball, and tennis
Jumping and landing incorrectly after jumps
Twisting of the knee or sudden pivoting motions
Direct blow or collision to the knee

In these situations, the sudden forces applied to the knee can cause the ACL to rupture or tear.

Symptoms of ACL Tears

The symptoms of an ACL tear can vary in intensity based on the severity of the injury. Partial tear of the ACL results in milder symptoms. In case of a complete tear of the ACL, you will experience intense and persistent symptoms.

The common symptoms of ACL tears include:

A distinct popping sound accompanied by a sensation of something tearing within the knee at the time of the injury
Immediate and intense pain in the knee
Swelling of the knee
A feeling of instability in the knee that makes it challenging to stand and walk
Limited range of motion, including difficulty in fully straightening or bending the knee
Tenderness in the knee and along the joint line
Bruising around the knee

Diagnosis of ACL Tears

The diagnostic process for an ACL injury involves a comprehensive assessment, including a physical examination and imaging tests focused on the injured knee. At Kimball Health Services, we prioritize a detailed and accurate diagnosis to develop an appropriate treatment plan and ensure recovery.

During the physical examination, our healthcare providers will gather information about the circumstances of the injury and conduct a thorough assessment of the knee. This includes evaluating signs of instability, swelling, and tenderness and assessing the range of motion in the affected knee.

In addition to the physical examination, imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, can help provide detailed images of the ligaments, cartilage, and other knee structures. These tests help in identifying the extent of the damage, detecting any associated injuries, and ruling out other potential issues.

Treatment of ACL Tears

The treatment of ACL tears can vary based on the severity of the injury, your activity level, and overall health.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Rest and Ice Therapy: After an ACL tear, the immediate focus of the treatment is on reducing pain and swelling. This involves proper rest and avoiding activities that could worsen the injury. Ice therapy and compression help address pain and swelling.
Physical and Occupational Therapy: Physical therapy includes personalized exercises and movements to reduce pain and swelling, enhance range of motion, and strengthen the muscles to offer better support to the knee. Occupational therapy involves adaptive techniques and the use of assistive devices like crutches or braces to support mobility during recovery and minimize strain on the healing knee.

Surgical Treatment

The decision for surgery to treat an ACL tear depends on various factors, including the severity of the injury, your activity level, age, overall health, and personal preferences. Surgery might be recommended if:

You are an athlete and have an active lifestyle, aiming to return to those activities
There is a complete ACL tear or significant instability in the knee
In case of complex knee injuries involving multiple ligament injuries and damage to other ligaments

Arthroscopic Surgery for ACL Tears

Arthroscopic surgery is a common minimally invasive approach for diagnosing and treating a wide range of knee injuries, including ACL tears. It involves the use of an arthroscope - a small, flexible tube with a camera and light source attached.

Orthopedic surgeons utilize arthroscopic surgery to gain clear visualization of the interior of the knee joint without necessitating large incisions. It is a common surgical procedure for addressing ACL tears, offering reduced invasiveness and the potential for quicker recovery times when compared to traditional open procedures.

Treating ACL Tears In Kimball, NE

ACL tears are common and can happen to anyone at any time. These injuries may result in discomfort and can significantly impact the quality of life. Swift and appropriate treatment is crucial for the effective management of the injury and for preserving overall mobility.

As one of the top critical access hospitals in the nation, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.

In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. For appointments, call us at 308-235-1966 or fill out our online form. We're here for you whenever you need us.