AboutÂ
An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and PCL (posterior cruciate ligament) tears are common knee injuries, especially for athletes. The ACL and PCL are two of four ligaments that stabilize the knee joint, allowing the knee to move forward and backward without moving side to side. ACL and PCL sprains and tears can occur when the knee joint twists abruptly and forcefully while the feet remain planted on the ground. In addition to the sudden twisting of the knee, ACL injuries can also occur when an individual changes directions, pivots, slows down suddenly, or misses the landing of a jump.
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain and swelling.
- Decreased motion.
- Instability.
- “Popping”.
- A feeling that the knee has given out.
Treatment Options
- Rest.
- Minimally invasive surgery.
- Physical treatment.