ACL Injury | ACL Tear | 3 Rivers Knee and Sports Injury Clinic

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries

The anterior cruciate ligament is a strong rope-like ligament that attaches the tibia to the femur, stopping them from sliding too far forwards or backwards. A sprain or tear of the ACL is one of the most common causes of knee injury.

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Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries

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The anterior cruciate ligament plays a vital role in stabilising the knee, particularly during pivoting and rotating movements. A tear or rupture to the ACL is, therefore, one of the most common knee injuries, often proving difficult to heal and leading to a feeling of instability in the knee.

An ACL injury often occurs during sporting activity, particularly sports such as netball, football or skiing, where a significant amount of stress is put on the knee or sudden changes of direction take place.

How will I know I have torn my ACL?

A popping or snapping sound or sensation at the time of the injury
Pain – immediately after the injury, but also discomfort when you put weight on the knee later
Swelling – this can occur straight away or within a few hours
A feeling of instability – some patients may experience this instantly whereas others may not be aware of this until they attempt to return to exercise or sport
The knee may feel like it’s popping out of the joint
Reduction in your range of motion; you can’t fully bend or straighten the knee joint
Tenderness

Treatments available

ACL Reconstruction

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Surgery London

Frequently asked questions

+ How is an ACL tear diagnosed?

During your consultation with Mr David Houlihan-Burne, he will discuss the nature of your injury and perform a physical examination. Diagnostic scans may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and to assess the extent of the damage.

+ Why do I need an MRI scan to assess the seriousness of the ACL rupture?

Ligaments are soft tissues, so an MRI is needed to assess the Anterior Cruciate Ligament. The MRI will also reveal any damage to the other ligaments and the knee cartilage.

The extent of ligament injury can then be graded; a grade one ACL tear is only a minor sprain and the knee is stable. A grade two ACL tear is a partial tear, whereas a grade three tear means the ligament is completely ruptured and unlikely to heal.

+ What are my treatment options after an ACL tear?

Typically, non-surgical treatment is explored first. This involves physiotherapy to try and restore muscle strength, coordination and full mobility in the knee joint. Depending on your average level of activity, this may be enough to return to normal.

If you are concerned you’ve damaged your Anterior Cruciate Ligament, call us on xxx to arrange a consultation with Mr David Houlihan-Burne. Alternatively, use our online booking system to arrange an appointment.