The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is a key part of the knee that helps stabilize it. It connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) and prevents the shin from sliding too far forward. Its counterpart, the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL), does the opposite by preventing the shin from sliding backward.
How Does the ACL Get Injured?
ACL injuries are common in sports like football. They often happen when the knee is forced into extreme positions, like during a sudden twist, hyperextension, or a hard fall. High-impact incidents, such as car accidents or collisions, can also damage the ACL, sometimes alongside other injuries like fractures or dislocations.
Symptoms of an ACL Injury
People with an ACL injury might feel:
- Pain in the knee
- A sensation of the knee “giving way,” especially on uneven surfaces
How Is It Diagnosed?
When a player is injured, the physician should ask an open-ended question at the time of the injury to allow the individual to explain in their own words how the injury occurred and to express any feelings that they may have experienced.
To do this, the question should begin with, ‘What is the reason you came to this place?’
Following the question, various physical examinations can be conducted in the following order:
- Inspection
- Palpation
- Movement and strength examination
- Joint examination
- Soft tissue examination
- Muscle assessment
- Neurological testing
- Assessment of pain and tenderness, as well as relevant examinations
Doctors can test for an ACL injury using the Anterior Drawer Test. This involves gently pulling the shin forward while the knee is bent. If the shin moves too far, it suggests an ACL tear.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the patient’s lifestyle. Options include:
- Non-surgical treatment: Using a knee brace and strengthening exercises to stabilize the knee.
- Surgery: Either repairing the ligament immediately or reconstructing it later (which is more common).
ACL Injuries in Footballers
Many famous footballers, like Ronaldo (the Brazilian), Michael Owen, and Radamel Falcao, have suffered ACL injuries. Recently, there’s been a rise in ACL injuries among female athletes.
The Need for Better Support for Female Athletes
Dr. Kat Okholm Kryger, a sports rehabilitation researcher, has highlighted the lack of progress in developing equipment specifically for female footballers. She points out that most research and gear are designed for male athletes, which can compromise the safety and performance of female players. Dr. Kryger is advocating for more tailored solutions to address this gap.
