ACL Injuries: Symptoms, Recovery, and Rehabilitation Tips

Cruciate ligament

Hello, doctor.
About two months ago, I felt my right knee shift during a jumping movement.
After that, my legs felt weak and I couldn't stand up, but I didn't experience any pain at that time.
I went to the emergency room and had a cast applied.
After two days, I was able to walk normally.
Later, I thought I was fine and resumed training.
This time, I just lightly pushed my right foot against the floor, and I twisted my knee again.
This time, I felt a dislocation accompanied by pain on the inner side of the knee.
The swelling has now gone down, but I currently cannot fully bend my knee; it feels tight and painful inside, as if it has been strained.
I also cannot fully straighten it.
Could you please tell me what the problem might be?

Annn, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/07

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

This is a consultation platform and cannot provide a diagnosis.
External forces causing knee joint injuries may lead to muscle strains, meniscus injuries, and ligament or tendon damage.
Please visit an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Reply Date: 2023/05/07

More Info

Understanding ACL Injuries: Symptoms, Recovery, and Rehabilitation Tips
It sounds like you may be experiencing symptoms consistent with an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury. The ACL is one of the key ligaments that help stabilize the knee joint, and injuries to this ligament are common in sports, especially those involving sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction. Given your description of the incident where you felt your knee "pop" and subsequently experienced instability and pain, it is crucial to understand the potential implications of an ACL injury and the steps you can take for recovery.

Symptoms of ACL Injuries
The symptoms of an ACL injury can vary, but they often include:
1. A "Popping" Sound: Many individuals report hearing or feeling a pop at the time of injury.

2. Knee Instability: You may feel that your knee is unstable or "gives way" when you try to put weight on it.

3. Swelling: Swelling usually occurs within a few hours after the injury due to fluid accumulation.

4. Pain: While you mentioned not experiencing pain immediately, pain often develops later, especially during activities that put stress on the knee.

5. Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee is common, as you described.

Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from an ACL injury can take time and often requires a structured rehabilitation program. Here are some key components to consider:
1. Initial Rest and Ice: After an injury, it is important to rest the knee and apply ice to reduce swelling. Elevating the leg can also help.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy is crucial for regaining strength and mobility. A physical therapist can provide you with exercises tailored to your specific needs, focusing on:
- Strengthening Exercises: These may include quadriceps and hamstring strengthening to support the knee.

- Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and mobility exercises can help restore full movement in the knee.

- Balance and Proprioception Training: These exercises help improve stability and coordination, which are vital for preventing future injuries.

3. Gradual Return to Activity: Once you have regained strength and range of motion, a gradual return to sports and physical activities is essential. This should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid re-injury.

4. Surgical Considerations: In some cases, if the ACL is completely torn and the knee remains unstable, surgical intervention may be necessary. This typically involves reconstructing the ligament using a graft from another tendon.

Prevention of Future Injuries
To prevent future ACL injuries, consider the following strategies:
- Strength Training: Focus on strengthening the muscles around the knee, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles.

- Flexibility Training: Incorporate stretching exercises to maintain flexibility in the legs and hips.

- Proper Technique: When participating in sports, use proper techniques for jumping, landing, and changing direction.

- Balance and Agility Drills: Engage in exercises that improve balance and agility, which can help reduce the risk of injury.

Emotional and Psychological Considerations
It is also important to address the emotional aspects of dealing with an injury. Anxiety and fear of re-injury are common among athletes. Here are some tips to help manage these feelings:
- Stay Informed: Understanding your injury and the recovery process can help alleviate fears.

- Set Realistic Goals: Work with your therapist to set achievable goals for your recovery.

- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation or deep breathing can help reduce anxiety and improve your mental well-being.

In conclusion, it is essential to seek a thorough evaluation from a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic specialist, to confirm the diagnosis and develop a personalized rehabilitation plan. Early intervention and adherence to a structured rehabilitation program can significantly improve your chances of a full recovery and return to your desired activities.

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