10 RiversideHealthcare.org When it comes to knees, few injuries are more common than anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries— some 200,000 people are diagnosed every year in the U.S. Here are answers to key questions about a torn or sprained ACL. Q: What is the ACL? Answer: It’s one of four main ligaments that hold together bones in your knee and keep it stable. Q: How do ACL injuries happen? Answer: They often occur in high-demand sports like soccer, basketball or football when someone suddenly stops moving, changes direction rapidly or lands from a jump incorrectly. That movement may mildly stretch and damage the ligament. Or it may partially or completely tear it. Though it’s not clear why, female athletes have a much higher rate of ACL injuries, perhaps because of how estrogen affects ligaments. Q: What are the symptoms of an ACL injury? Answer: You may hear a “pop,” and your knee may give out from under you. Your knee may also hurt and swell. If you think you’ve injured your ACL, get medical attention. Q: How is an ACL injury treated? Answer: A torn ACL will not heal without surgery. Even so, treatment will depend on your lifestyle and needs. For example, a young athlete will likely need surgery followed by physical therapy to safely return to a high-demand sport. But for an older, less active adult, physical therapy may be an effective treatment. Sources: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; American Physical Therapy Association You’ve torn your ACL: Now what? It’s time to come see the team at Riverside Orthopedic Specialists. Riverside’s sports medicine program is here to help make sure you are at your best. When it comes to sports, no one is more committed to helping athletes succeed than the experts at Riverside. Full-court press In addition to our orthopedic program, Riverside offers: Orthopedic Walk-in Clinic: open Monday through Saturday. No appointment needed; just come on in. From sprains to closed fractures and minor dislocations, we’re here to help. Concussion Center: reliable expertise. Our neurosciences team of neurosurgeons, neurologists, neuropsychologists and physical therapists ensures you get the most comprehensive concussion management available. Sports Medicine: Athletes of all ages know the strain our bodies can experience while competing. But when injuries do occur, it’s important to be able to fully recover and return in peak condition. ACL injuries What you should know
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