What is Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture?

Rupture or damage to the ligament on the inside of the knee anterior cruciate ligament rupture It is called. This ligament is one of two major ligaments within the knee joint, called the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments. The cruciate ligament plays an important role in ensuring the stability of the knee.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture Symptoms

The symptoms are as follows. There may be a feeling of severe pain during or after the rupture. Pain is usually felt immediately and may later cause swelling and bruising. Swelling may occur in the knee after the rupture. Bruising (purple, blue or green skin patches) may occur due to damage to blood vessels. Since it is the task of maintaining the stability of the ACL, there is a loss of balance after the rupture.

This loss of balance, especially felt when the knee is rotated or pressed on the ground, is an important symptom. Some people may experience a feeling of tightness, locking or catching in the knee. This can happen due to the torn ACL coming into contact with other structures or being compressed. Anterior cruciate ligament rupture Afterwards, there may be limitation of movement in the knee. It may be more difficult to straighten or bend the knee completely.

Internal sounds such as clicking or crackling may be heard in the knee. If you are experiencing symptoms after a straining knee injury, it is important to see a doctor immediately. Diagnosis is usually made through physical examination and imaging methods such as x-ray and MRI. Treatment options may include surgery and a rehabilitation program. However, your doctor's evaluation will affect this decision.

Risk Factors for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture

It usually occurs during sports injuries. It can be affected by various factors. Anterior cruciate ligament rupture There are some factors that may cause the condition. The anatomical structure of the individual and the structural features of the knee joint may affect the susceptibility of the ligament. Some people may have anatomical features such as a wide pelvis or a narrow knee angle. This may increase the risk of injury.

Women are more prone to injuries than men. This gender difference may be due to various factors such as hormonal, anatomical and movement pattern. Some sports involve movements such as sudden stops, steering and jumping. These types of sports can increase the risk of injury. High-speed and contact sports such as football, basketball and rugby carry this risk.

Movements made with wrong techniques increase the risk. Additionally, activities performed without proper body mechanics can also increase the risk of injury. Imbalance or weakness of the muscles around the knee can reduce the protective function of the ligament. Especially the imbalance between the anterior thigh muscles and the posterior thigh muscles increases this risk. In case of fatigue, muscles can provide less support and coordination may be impaired. This may increase the risk of injury. Slippery floors or unsuitable sports shoes, anterior cruciate ligament rupture increases the risk.

Previous injuries to the knee or leg area cause the tissues to weaken. This may lead to an increased risk of injury. Inadequate strengthening of the muscles around the knee leads to the risk of injury. Genetic predisposition may affect an individual's connective tissue structure and increase risk. Remember that every individual's situation is different and the risk of injury can vary depending on many factors. If an injury occurs, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture Treatment Methods

Treatment methods may vary depending on the severity of the injury, the patient's age, lifestyle, and other factors. Anterior cruciate ligament rupture treatment methods There is general information about. In case of minor tears or in elderly individuals, non-surgical treatment methods can be tried. This approach is based on the principles of physiotherapy, rest, ice application and compression.

Physiotherapy helps strengthen the muscles around the knee. It also aims to increase flexibility and increase joint stability. Surgical treatment is generally recommended in case of rupture in young and active individuals. This is done to restore the stability of the knee and prevent long-term complications.

Surgical Options for the Treatment of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture

In the reconstruction surgery method, new tissue is used to replace the broken ligament. Thus, the bond is re-established. The tendon is taken from the patient's own body (for example, patellar tendon or hamstring tendon) or from donor tissue. In reparation surgery, the severed ligament ends are attempted to be repaired by stitching them directly. However, this method is generally not suitable for complete tears and reconstruction usually gives better results.

Post-surgical rehabilitation is an important step. Physiotherapy and exercise programs help restore the strength and range of motion of the knee. It can also speed up the process of returning to normal activities. Treatment selection should be made taking into account the physician's clinical evaluation and the patient's characteristics. Each situation may be different, so consulting with a specialist orthopedist or sports physician would be the best approach.