Anterior cruciate ligament injury

Our specialised experts here at Prestige Healthcare are highly experienced in treating complex conditions of the knee and we have a multi disciplinary approach which involves all of our healthcare professionals working together to get you back to fitness. Many of the people we treat are returned to tip-top performance without the need for surgery.

If you tear the anterior cruciate ligament in your knee, you may need to have re-constructive surgery. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a tough band of tissue joining the thigh bone to the shin bone at the knee joint. It controls front to back and, most importantly, pivoting or twisting movement.

ACL injuries

Knee injuries can occur during sports such as skiing, tennis, squash, netball, football and rugby. ACL injuries are the most common type of knee injury . You can tear your ACL when twisting, pivoting or with a direct blow as listed below 

• landing incorrectly from a jump
• stopping quite suddenly
• changing direction
• collision, such as during a rugby tackle

If the ACL is torn, your knee will become very unstable and have a reduced full range of movement. This can make it difficult to perform certain movements, such as turning on the spot. 

How is it treated?

Depending on the injury the ACL can be treated conservatively or surgically . ACL reconstruction surgery is a highly successful operation and post people can return to their previous level of sport from 6 months onwards after surgery.

Both options will normally require a Knee brace either pre / post-surgery or conservatively. Our clinicians at Prestige Healthcare will be able to assess you and offer the most suitable brace.

For more information about Anterior cruciate ligament injuries in general, or to have an assessment, or some treatment contact us by filling out the form below, emailing or calling us.