What are Common Torn ACL Symptoms?

If you’re an athlete, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the ACL. This abbreviation stands for “anterior cruciate ligament,” referring to one of four main ligaments in the knee. It is responsible for keeping the knee stable, and when it tears, it can cause problems on and off the field.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at common torn ACL symptoms you may experience as a result of playing sports or other activities, as well as what treatment options are available.

Here are three common torn ACL symptoms to be on the lookout for.

Symptom 1: Pain

If you’ve torn your ACL, you’ll likely experience pain after the initial “popping” sensation. The pain may be sharp and sudden, or it may be an aching sensation that gets worse over time. Severe pain may render you unable to continue activity. You may also feel swelling or tenderness around the knee.

Symptom 2: Swelling

Swelling is another common symptom of a torn ACL. The swelling may be gradual or sudden and may worsen over time. You may also have difficulty bending your knee and other loss of range of motion.

Symptom 3: Instability

If you’ve torn your ACL, you may experience instability in the knee joint. This means the knee feels like it will give out or buckle under pressure or when bearing weight. You may also have difficulty standing on one leg or walking up stairs.

How to Treat a Torn ACL

If you’ve torn your ACL, you may need surgery to repair the damage. Surgery is typically recommended for athletes and people with active lifestyles. Depending on the severity of the tear, other treatment options may be available, such as physical therapy or bracing.

Physical therapy can help you regain strength and stability in the knee. In addition, bracing can provide support and stability to the joint, which may help you continue participating in activities even while you’re recovering from surgery.

Get Back in the Game with RNJOI

At Rutgers North Jersey Orthopaedic Institute, our Sports Medicine Division specializes in preventing and treating sports-related illnesses and injuries. In addition to torn ACLs, our practice treats a wide range of injuries, including concussions, overuse injuries, strains and sprains, and more. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you with treatment, rehabilitation, and more.