Putting It All Together

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to anterior cruciate ligament tears.

• Physicians are seeing more athletic injuries, including the commonly experienced anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, in athletes and non-athletes alike.

• The primary function of the ACL is to control forward movement of the tibia on the femur as well as to restrain excessive inward rotation of the tibia in relation to the femur.

• Injuries to the ACL occur most often in contact sports or activities requiring sudden stops and turns.

• Not all ACL injuries need repair. The decision of whether to have surgery will depend partly on the extent of the injury and also on whether the patient is involved in activities requiring sudden turns and stops.

• ACL reconstruction can now be performed on an outpatient basis arthroscopically.

• Two common tendons used in the reconstruction of the ACL are the patellar tendon and the hamstring tendon.

• The rehabilitation program following ACL reconstruction is very important and has a significant impact on the outcome of the knee.

• Most therapy programs follow specific guidelines and protocols produced by the physician.

• For most individuals, ACL reconstruction can restore stability to the knee and will allow them return to previous work and vigorous athletic activities usually without any compromises.