ACL - Anterior Cruciate Ligament - What you kneed to know

Function

Prevents the anterior tibial translation (change in position) and rotation loads both medial and lateral.

Where is it?

The ACL crosses infront of the knee as you can see in the diagrams.

Common Injuries

ACL injury is a common for athletes. Usually seen in sports where pivoting is required when foot is planted on the ground, netball, football, basketball, soccer and downhill skiing and with deceleration and jumping.

Injuries and be major tears or complete tear to a mild sprain or tear.

ACL injury can present as an audible pop or crack, feeling unstable with significant swelling, knee gives away on twisting and tenderness at the medial side of the knee.

Diagnosis

Test that can be performed to diagnose ACL injury is the Lachman test and Pivot shift.

What to do if you think you are injured

Stop your activity immediately, apply RICE to stop or help with swelling do not apply heat.

See your Doctor, once you know the scan results this will depend on your course of action. If surgery is required we can help with pre and post surgery pain and movement, if you only have a minor tear acupuncture has proven to help the knee repair and reduce pain.

PCL- Posterior Cruciate Ligament

The PCL stabilises the knee joint, it does this by the two fibre bundles that make up the PCL - anterolateral and posteromedial. When the knee flexes and goes into extension these bundles counter balance each other (one will tighten and one will release). This stops the shin bone from sliding backwards under the thigh bone.

How do you know if you have damaged the PCL?

Usually you would hear a pop sound, damage is mostly from sports or a direct blow to a bent knee (car accident). A deep pain is usually felt in the back of the knee, your gait may change, restricted movement of the knee and poor balance.

How can I help?

Acupuncture will help reduce pain and swelling of the joint, it improves circulation of oxygen and nutrient rich blood to the knee aiding in the healing process. It does this by removing the toxins and fluids from inflammation and providing oxygen and nutrient rich blood.

As always if pain persists please call Ash on 5310 6259 or book online at www.bodyandspinesolutions.com.au

Cheers

Rachael