What is an ACL tear?
Most frequently seen in athletes or those who participate in sports, ACL injuries range in severity from small strains to a complete ACL tear. The ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, is one of the four major ligaments of the knee and the main support system for the knee. Patients with ACL injuries often complain of a “pop” sound from inside the joint, immediate, intense pain and a feeling of the knee giving out. Soccer players, especially females, are highly prone to suffer an ACL knee injury; however, other sports such as tennis, basketball, and football can also carry a high injury-rate. A severe fall can also cause an ACL tear. Boulder, Colorado orthopedic knee and sports medicine specialist, Dr. Austin Chen specializes in numerous knee conditions, including ACL tears.
What are the symptoms of an ACL tear?
While based on the severity of the injury, most ACL injuries cause swelling, pain and a limited range of motion. In the mildest cases, the knee may simply feel unstable or may “give way.” In more severe cases, a “popping” sensation will occur at the time of the injury, followed by swelling. Pain will result when weight it placed on the foot.
What is the treatment for an ACL tear?
In less severe ACL injuries non-surgical options include ice, heat, rest, elevation, and avoidance of certain activities. Physical therapy may also be recommended. In more severe cases such as full ACL tears, Dr. Austin Chen may suggest arthroscopic surgery to repair or replace torn ligaments of the knee. ACL reconstruction surgery will restore the joint to optimal strength, while maintaining range of motion.
Due to the minimally invasive nature of the arthroscopic technique, damage to surrounding muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves and blood vessels is significantly reduced. Risk of infection, post-operative pain and rehabilitation are also decreased compared to the traditional open-technique.
*Learn more about how Dr. Chen performs ACL reconstruction surgery
