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.

Articular cartilage is an elastic, smooth, soft tissue which allows bones to interact with each other without friction or pain. Articular cartilage acts as a shock absorber for force applied to the joint during movement. When the articular cartilage is damaged whether from an injury or normal wear and tear from aging, a chondral defect can occur. Although symptoms may not appear until later in life, articular cartilage problems are very common.

The lateral collateral ligament is located at the medial (inner) and lateral (outer) aspects of the knee. These ligaments work with the ACL and PCL to keep the knee stable during motion and activity. When the LCL tears, one will notice side-to-side instability with activities. Typically the LCL is injured when there is direct force on the inside of the knee - the part closest to your other leg.

The MCL or medial collateral ligament is one of the four major ligaments of the knee. It helps connect the thigh bone to the shin bone, stabilizing the knee. It can be injured due to a direct trauma to the knee. When the MCL is torn, pain, swelling and joint instability occurs. In cases where the tear is severe (grade III tear), or the tear does not heal with non surgical methods.

Injuries to the meniscus cartilage of the knee are among the most common injuries encountered in sports. Many athletes, especially runners and those in contact sports, are highly susceptible to tears. However, individuals at any age can experience tearing of the meniscus. Tears can be acute and traumatic, involving injury, or chronic and degenerative in nature. When the meniscus is degenerated over time, everyday activities such as slight pivoting or squatting can cause a tear.

The ligaments of the knee are made up of strong, dense connective tissue. These ligaments are what allows us to walk, bend, pivot and turn. They are also required for maintaining knee stability. These ligaments are commonly injured in sports such as soccer, football, basketball, skiing and gymnastics. In a multiligament knee injury there is a tear of at least two of the four major knee ligament structures: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), the posteromedial...