The knee joint contains two groups of elastic tissue bands: the cruciate ligaments and the collateral ligaments. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is found within the knee joint connecting the posterior femur (thigh bone) to the anterior tibia (shin bone). This ligament is primarily responsible for limiting the forward and backward movement of the shin bone in relation to the thigh bone but also stabilizes the knee joint with rotation. An ACL injury occurs when this ligament is stretched beyond its limits causing the shin bone to slip from under the thigh bone. The ACL can be stretched or torn from its attachment site from a direct blow to the knee, a sudden stop, or pivoting on a firmly planted foot. Dr. Frank McCormick, orthopedic knee specialist serving Orlando, Palm Beach County, and surrounding Florida communities, has the knowledge and understanding, as well as substantial experience, in treating patients with an ACL injury.
While anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are frequently common among athletes of all ages and experience levels, there are some particular factors that have been found to increase the likelihood of experiencing an ACL injury, as follows:
Individuals with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury commonly report severe and sudden pain within the knee following an injury. This is frequently associated with a “popping” sound heard at the time of injury. Some other common symptoms of an ACL injury include:
Dr. McCormick will first obtain a comprehensive medical history which includes any current symptoms, the precipitating injury, any previous knee injuries, and any underlying health conditions that may contribute to this injury. A thorough physical examination will follow where Dr. McCormick will evaluate for areas of pain and tenderness and assess the knee’s range of motion. Diagnostic imaging studies may be requested as they are a beneficial tool in confirming an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. X-rays will identify if any bone-related damage, such as a fracture, occurred as a result of the injury. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will pinpoint the location of the ACL injury as well as identify any other damage to the soft tissue structures within the knee joint.
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries that do not result in knee instability may respond well to conservative treatment measures. Assisted weight-bearing with a walker or crutches and joint immobilization with a knee brace is essential for healing the ACL properly. Implementing RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) together with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can relieve any pain and inflammation associated with this condition. A physical therapy program tailored to the patient’s specific injury is also highly encouraged for restoring muscle strength and improving range of motion.
However, surgical reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) may be necessary for patients with complex or severe ACL tears or when patients fail to respond adequately to conservative therapies. Surgical reconstruction of the ACL can be achieved through a minimally invasive technique involving a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized surgical instruments. Once the damaged tissue portions of the ACL are excised and removed, a tendon graft from either the patient (autograft) or donor (allograft) is integrated into the native tissue to restore function back to the ACL. This minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure is preferred by patients and surgeons alike as the smaller incisions reduce the risk of blood loss and infection while also minimizing the recovery time.
For more information on anterior cruciate ligament injuries, or the excellent treatment options available, please contact the office of Frank McCormick, MD, orthopedic knee specialist serving Orlando, Palm Beach County, and surrounding Florida communities.
