Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear: a common knee injury, especially in sports, causing instability and pain.

Causes:

1. Sudden stops or changes of direction

2. Landing awkwardly from jumps

3. Direct blows to the knee

4. Twisting or pivoting movements

5. Sports injuries (e.g., soccer, basketball, football)

Symptoms:

1. Sudden, severe pain

2. Loud "pop" or snapping sound

3. Swelling and bruising

4. Instability or feeling of knee "giving way"

5. Limited mobility and stiffness

Diagnosis:

1. Physical examination

2. Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI)

3. Arthroscopy

Treatment:

1. Conservative:

    - Physical therapy (rehabilitation)

    - Bracing and orthotics

    - Pain management

2. Surgical:

    - ACL reconstruction (patellar tendon or hamstring graft)

    - Rehabilitation

Recovery:

1. Conservative: 3-6 months

2. Surgical: 6-9 months

Complications:

1. Chronic instability

2. Meniscal damage

3. Cartilage degeneration

4. Arthritis

5. Reduced athletic performance

Prevention:

1. Warm-up and cool-down exercises

2. Strengthening and stretching

3. Proper landing and pivoting techniques

4. Knee bracing and support

5. Sports-specific training