Signs and Treatment of a Torn ACL
Anterior cruciate ligament tears are painful injuries that require serious medical attention. Steven Struhl, MD, has been serving New York residents as a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon for more than two decades. After an ACL injury, it’s important to find an experienced and knowledgeable knee doctor to ensure a successful recovery.
Signs of ACL Injury
- Snapping Sound: People who have suffered an ACL tear often notice a loud “pop” or snap noise when the injury occurs.
- Instability: The anterior cruciate ligament is one of four that supports the knee and is necessary for its normal functioning. When the ligament is torn, you will feel your knee give out under pressure or feel unstable.
- Swelling and Pain: Within minutes of an ACL tear, the knee area will be very swollen and painful. When an ACL is torn, a nearby blood vessel is also severed, which is why the swelling is so rapid and drastic.
- Testing: For minor tears, it’s often unclear whether a knee injury is due to a torn ACL or another problem. Your orthopedic surgeon may do multiple tests on your knee and tibia movement to determine if your ACL has been torn.
Treatment
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is necessary for any ACL injury, whether or not you undergo knee surgery. Patients can achieve nearly normal results through intensive therapy and rehabilitation, but without surgery the risk of reinjuring to ACL is higher.
- Knee Brace: Braces provide the injured area support and prevent instability. Without this added stabilization, there is increased risk of reinjuring or further injuring the area.
- Surgery: Most ACL tears require surgery in order for the patient to return to normal activity. Orthopedic surgeons use skin-grafting techniques to reconstruct the torn ligament. With significant rehabilitation, most patients are able to resume normal activities post-operation.
If you’ve experienced an ACL injury, seek treatment advice from an experienced orthopedic surgeon right away. Steven Struhl, MD, has more than two decades of experience performing reconstructive knee surgeries in New York. Call (888) 451-8890 to set up an appointment at our New York City or Westchester offices today.