ACL Tear Treatment in Northern Indiana

What is an ACL Tear?

An ACL tear involves the ligament that sits in the middle of the knee, which is known as the anterior cruciate ligament. In general, the main job of this ligament is to prevent the shin bone from sliding in front of the thigh bone, giving support and strength to the joint. When an ACL injury, like a tear, occurs, the strength of the knee joint is affected and creates discomfort and swelling.

This type of injury is more commonly a sports injury, however, someone participating in any physical activity may injure their ACL.

acl tear

Symptoms of an ACL Tear

Some early symptoms of this common knee injury include:

  • A “popping” sound or sensation at the time of the injury
  • A significant amount of swelling at the knee within 6 hours of the injury
  • Knee pain, especially when bearing weight
  • Difficulty in participating in physical activities and sports
  • The knee feels unstable

ACL Tear FAQs

What Causes an ACL Tear?

Your ACL may tear if you:

  • Get hit hard on the side of your knee, like during a tackle in football
  • Stretch the knee joint too far
  • Suddenly stop movement, land from a jump, or turn quickly and change direction

How do I Prevent an ACL Tear?

Use the right techniques when you play sports or work out. Some college sports programs show athletes how to keep the ACL from receiving too much stress. There are several warm-up exercises and jumping drills you can do, which have been known to help prevent ACL injuries when combined with landing exercises.

When Should I Start Physical Therapy for an ACL Tear?

Physical therapy is a vital part of your recovery from an ACL tear. After surgery to repair the ACL, physical therapy should be started as soon as possible to regain mobility, strength, and flexibility in the joint.

ACL Tear Treatment

Depending on the severity of the tear, there are two types of treatments involved. Nonsurgical treatment includes extensive physical therapy to strengthen the other structures in the knee to provide more support and healing, along with rest from physical activity.

This course of treatment is typically used for less severe ACL tears and for patients who are involved in less stressful activities for the knees, as well as elderly patients.

However, knee surgery, like an ACL reconstruction, is typically the most common and the most preferred form of treatment for this type of injury. This is an arthroscopic procedure, and since most of these injuries occur in athletes, it is the best option for those who want to continue to participate in high-activity sports and activities in the future.

ACL Reconstruction Recovery

Your knee will usually be stable and work well again after a successful ACL reconstruction and focused rehabilitation. In the first few weeks after surgery, you should try to get your knee back to the same range of motion as the other knee.

Most people need about nine months to get better, however, athletes might not be able to play their sports at full capacity again for eight to twelve months or even longer.

ACL Tear Care in Michiana

Here at OSMC, our goal is to provide the best care and treatment possible for your ACL injury. Reach out to us at (574)319-9994 or set up an appointment online to meet with one of our top-notch physicians, to get yourself on the right path to recovery.