Symptoms of a Torn ACL
By Andrew Heideman, PT, ATC
What are the Symptoms of a Torn ACL?
A Torn ACL, also known as an ACL Sprain, ACL Injury, or an ACL Tear occurs when the Anterior Cruciate Ligament of the Knee becomes an injury. Typical causes of injury include:
- hyperextension of the knee
- a sudden turn or cut made with the knee
- landing from a jump awkwardly
- a sudden stop
- getting hit on the side of the knee while the foot is planted
Common signs and symptoms of a torn ACL include increased swelling in the knee a few minutes after the injury occurs, difficulty walking or standing due to instability in the knee, an audible “pop”, and the onset of intense or mild pain in the knee upon injury. In more serious cases, other structures may be damaged which can result in loss of feeling or numbness down the leg and into the foot.
It is important to be properly evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon if you feel you have an ACL Sprain or Tear. JOI has several physicians who can help you with your knee injury. From conservative management to having an ACL Reconstruction. JOI is here to help you.
If you would like to watch a video about this injury, go to: Torn ACL
Knee Anatomy
The anatomy of the knee is complex. There are several knee ligaments which provide stability to the knee joint. There is the ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL. The knee also has the medial and lateral meniscus to serve to absorb the stress of weight bearing in the knee. When any of these structures are injured, the knee loses the ability to function properly. If you want to learn more about the anatomy of the knee, go to this video of the knee.
Please call us at 904-JOI-2000 if you suspect you may have torn your ACL as earlier intervention typically improves outcomes.
Image of a Knee Joint ACL Injuries
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