ACL Injury Treatment: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery Options | Expert Care

ACL Injury: Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment with Dr. Soham Mandal

An ACL injury is a common yet serious injury that affects the knee joint, especially in athletes and active individuals. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee. When injured, it can lead to pain, swelling, and limited movement, significantly affecting day-to-day activities. In this blog, Dr. Soham Mandal, a Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for ACL injuries, providing you with a comprehensive guide to understand this condition better.


What is an ACL Injury?

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four major ligaments in the knee. It connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia), helping stabilize the knee joint during movements like walking, running, and jumping. An ACL injury occurs when the ligament is torn or stretched beyond its capacity, leading to instability and dysfunction of the knee joint.


Causes of ACL Injury

ACL injuries often occur during physical activities, especially sports. The primary causes include:

  1. Sudden Movements: Quick changes in direction, sudden stops, or pivoting during sports like football, basketball, soccer, or skiing.
  2. Direct Trauma: A blow to the knee or an awkward fall can result in the ACL being overstretched or torn.
  3. Overuse and Weak Muscles: Weak muscles around the knee can increase the strain on the ACL, making it vulnerable to injury.
  4. Improper Landing: Jumping and landing incorrectly, especially with the knee twisted, can cause ACL tears.
  5. Previous Injuries: Individuals with a history of knee injuries are at a higher risk of re-injuring the ACL.

Symptoms of an ACL Injury

Common symptoms of an ACL injury include:

  • Pain in the knee, especially during movement.
  • A popping sound or sensation at the time of injury.
  • Swelling and inflammation within hours of the injury.
  • Instability or the feeling that the knee is “giving way.”
  • Difficulty bearing weight or walking.
  • Limited range of motion and stiffness in the knee joint.

Diagnosing ACL Injury

To diagnose an ACL injury, Dr. Soham Mandal, a Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, will perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend the following diagnostic tests:

  1. X-rays: To rule out bone fractures or other joint issues.
  2. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): To provide a detailed image of the soft tissues, including the ACL ligament, and assess the extent of the injury.
  3. Arthroscopy: In some cases, a small camera is inserted into the knee joint to visualize the damage to the ACL and surrounding structures.

Treatment Options for ACL Injury

Depending on the severity of the ACL injury, treatment can be either conservative or surgical:

1. Conservative Treatment (Non-Surgical)

For less severe ACL injuries or those without the need for high activity levels, non-surgical treatment may be recommended:

  • R.I.C.E. Therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation): Helps manage swelling and pain.
  • Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises for the muscles surrounding the knee to provide better stability.
  • Knee Brace: To stabilize the knee during recovery and reduce further damage.

2. Surgical Treatment (ACL Reconstruction)

For more severe ACL injuries, especially those involving a complete tear, surgery is often required. ACL reconstruction involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft, usually taken from the patient’s own tissue or a donor’s.

  • Arthroscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure where small incisions are made, and the torn ligament is reconstructed using a graft.
  • Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: A critical part of recovery to regain strength, flexibility, and motion in the knee. The rehabilitation process can last several months, with gradual return to activity.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

The recovery time after an ACL injury depends on the severity and whether surgery is required:

  • Non-Surgical Recovery: Individuals with mild injuries may recover in a few weeks with appropriate rest and physical therapy.
  • Surgical Recovery: Full recovery after ACL reconstruction surgery typically takes 6 to 12 months. During this time, rehabilitation, including strengthening exercises and knee stability training, is essential to ensure a safe return to activities.

Preventing ACL Injuries

While some factors like genetics cannot be controlled, here are some steps to reduce the risk of an ACL injury:

  • Strengthen Muscles: Focus on strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles around the knee joint.
  • Proper Technique: Learn correct jumping, landing, and pivoting techniques during sports.
  • Warm-Up and Stretch: Always warm up before physical activity and stretch the muscles to improve flexibility.
  • Footwear and Equipment: Ensure proper footwear that offers support and stability during sports.

When to Consult a Doctor

If you suspect an ACL injury, it’s essential to consult an orthopedic specialist. Dr. Soham Mandal, a Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, is an expert in diagnosing and treating ACL injuries. Early intervention ensures proper treatment and faster recovery.


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