Anterior Cruciate Ligament Strain (ACL Strain)
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament otherwise more commonly referred to as the ACL is the ligament found in the centre of the knee. This important ligament of the knee controls the rotation of the knee and the forward movement of the tibia (also known as the shin bone).
This Anterior Cruciate Ligament has been reported to be the most commonly injured ligament in sport. Minor tears may not be noticed immediately but rather appear a few hours later with pain and swelling. More serious tears or ruptures of the ACL ligament are often accompanied by a popping sound. You may feel as though something has snapped or simply feel like your knee has given out.
Causes
The tearing or rupturing of this ligament often results from sudden twisting and turning of the knee. Changes in direction or over stretching the knee can also cause the ACL to tear. Pain and tenderness as well as swelling will accompany the ACL injury. The knee may feel unstable to walk upon and may lock during movement.
Treatment
Immediate treatment of the ACL injury include the application of cold or ice packs to the affected area, and elevation of the knee. Resting the injured knee and avoiding use of the knee is also important to healing. Light compression of the knee joint with the use of an elasticized support bandage may also be directed by your care giver.
Individuals with severely torn ligaments often require surgery as part of their healing process. More often though, individuals with mild or moderate tearing require physiotherapy. A common technique used in the treatment of ACL injuries by physiotherapists is ultrasound. Ultrasound is a healing technique that has been in existence around the world for many decades. Ultrasound reduces swelling and pain in the knee. At the same time it also increases the blood supply to the affected area stimulating tissues and increasing the rate of healing.
Not only does ultrasound aid in the duration of healing, but it helps to prevent long term complications. Scar tissue build up, pain, arthritis, and lack of mobility are some of the more common long term complications from an ACL injury. By speeding up the healing process with ultrasound, less scar tissue is formed, swelling and pain are reduced.
For those who suffer from some of these long term complications of existing ACL injuries, ultrasound can help. Ultrasound therapy can help to break up scar and fibrous tissue in the affected area. For those with chronic pain and inflammation ultrasound will help to reduce these and free the individual.
Prevention
To reduce the risk of injury to the knee regular exercise is an important component. Gradually increasing the intensity of exercise and being aware of the movement of the knee are key factors as well. Avoiding sudden movements such as twisting or overstretching of the joint will help keep the knee stable.
Never use Ultrasound over an area injected with a steroid (ie. cortisone) for at least 30 days.
Never use Ultrasound after surgery until your physician recommends and approves of it.
