Adam R Whatley Osteopath
Sep 30, 20182 min
Knee - Cruciate ligament injury
One of the most common knee injuries is an anterior cruciate ligament sprain or tear, which is commonly associated with sports like football.
Knee cruciate ligament injuries vary in severity depending on the mechanism of injury. If bad, often they will need surgical repair. About half of all injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament occur along with damage to other structures in the knee, such as articular cartilage, meniscus, or other ligaments.
Causes of knee cruciate ligament injury
• Changing direction rapidly
• Stopping suddenly
• Twisting on a planted foot
• Landing from a jump incorrectly
• Direct contact or collision
Physical conditioning, muscular strength, and neuromuscular control are important factors. Other suggested causes include differences in pelvis and biomechanical influences.
Grade 1 Sprains refer to mild damage but the knee is stable.
Grade 2 Sprains are referred to as a partial tear of the ligament and some instability may be noticed.
Grade 3 Sprains. This type of sprain is most commonly referred to as a complete tear of the ligament. The ligament has been split into two pieces, and the knee joint is unstable.
Symptoms
Knee anterior cruciate ligament injuries are commonly associated with a popping or the knee giving way. Typically symptoms include:
• Pain with swelling. Within 24 hours
• Loss of mobility
• Discomfort while walking
Treatment for ACL injury
Treatment for an ACL tear will vary on severity and the patient’s individual needs.
Nonsurgical Treatment
Unfortunately often a torn ACL will not heal without surgery due to it having a poor blood supply. But nonsurgical treatment may be effective for patients who have very low levels of activity. If the overall stability of the knee is good we recommend a brace to protect your knee from instability, crutches to keep you from putting weight on your leg if needed and then intensive Physical rehabilitation therapy. At this time monitoring if any swelling goes down, then a careful rehabilitation program is started. Specific exercises are performed to restore function to your knee and strengthen the leg muscles that support it and ultimately with the aim of gaining functional control and stability. Surgical reconstruction Treatment may well be needed if tear does not improve, or grades imminent repair following scans.
If the patient is unsure or against surgery altogether then platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatment may be an option to promote healing and recovery.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/312911107_Biologic_Approaches_for_the_Treatment_of_Partial_Tears_of_the_Anterior_Cruciate_Ligament_A_Current_Concepts_Review
Find out more by getting in touch at
www.dynamicosteopaths.com
We have clinics operating out of Solihull and BIrmingham
01564330773