Non-contact injuries: rotational maneuvers when changing direction in sports such as basketball, football or soccer. Landing from a jump.
Contact injuries: direct blows to the knee during sports encounters.
Overuse: Repetitive stress, especially in activities that involve repetitive cutting and twisting, can lead to a gradual weakening of the ACL and increase the risk of a tear.
Anatomical factors: Some people may have a naturally looser knee joint or weaker ACL due to genetics.

ACL tear symptoms and signs

Symptoms can include:

• Pop sound: heard at the moment of damage.
• Severe pain: can be immediate or develop over several hours.
• Swelling: develops rapidly within 24 hours and causes significant knee effusion (fluid collection).
• Instability: You feel like your knee is giving out or buckling, especially when trying to bear weight.
• Loss of range of motion: difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee.
• Joint sensitivity: pain along the joint line.

It is important to note that not all ACL tears present with the same severity. Some people may experience a partial tear with minimal swelling and instability, while others with a complete tear may have significant pain and difficulty walking.

The diagnosis of a torn cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee usually involves a combination of the following:

• Physical exam: The doctor evaluates swelling, tenderness, range of motion, and specific maneuvers to test ACL function.
• Imaging studies: X-rays are often used to rule out fractures, while an MRI scan provides detailed visualization of the ACL and surrounding structures to confirm a tear and assess its severity.

Treatment methods for knee cruciate ligament rupture

The treatment approach for an ACL tear depends on various factors, including the severity of the tear, age, activity level, and overall health. There are two main treatment options:

Non-surgical rehabilitation: For less severe tears, especially in people with lower activity levels, a structured physical therapy program is often recommended. This program focuses on strengthening the muscles around the knee joint, restoring range of motion and improving stability. A brace may also be used for support during the healing process.

Surgical reconstruction: For complete tears or those with persistent instability despite rehabilitation, surgery to reconstruct the ACL is usually recommended. There are several surgical techniques, the most common of which involves transplanting tissue (autograft) from another part of the patient's body, such as a hamstring tendon, to replace a torn ACL. Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique often used for ACL reconstruction, allowing for a faster recovery time.

Recovery from ACL tear surgery

After ACL reconstruction surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is critical to regain full function and prevent further complications. Physical therapy focuses on pain management, reducing swelling, restoring range of motion, strengthening muscles, and retraining proper knee mechanics. Recovery usually takes several months, with a gradual return to activities as strength and stability improve.