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ACL Injury

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the major ligaments in your knee. It provides rotational mobility in the knee and prevents the tibia from sliding out of the femur. ACL tears are some of the most common injuries amongst athletes performing at a high level, whereby they are required.


There are various risk factors which can increase your risk of an ACL injury. Participation in certain sports which are strenuous on the knee such as soccer, basketball and rugby. Poor conditioning can also increase your risk regardless of physical activity. Last, sudden movements and distribution imbalances of the weight on lower limbs. 


Depending on the severity of the ACL injury, a range of treatments may be employed. A mere strain only requires simple exercises, rest and rehabilitation. If deemed serious, surgery is required to replace the torn ligament followed by rehabilitation.


The patient’s knee may swell, feel unstable and become too painful to bear weight, and is oftentimes treated with a brace, which helps the limbs to bear a lighter weight. It also helps to maintain functionality at the same time, which allows the patient to walk normally. 


Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acl-injury/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350744


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