subject: Degrees Of Acl Injury [print this page] While athletes are more prone to ACL injury, it can be acquired by almost anyone who constantly engages in strenuous activities. Aside from being a factor for poor athletic performance, it can also affect a persons quality of life. There are three descriptions to an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury, each depending on the severity of the tear in the ligament.
Overexertion of the ACL ligament may cause it to stretch and result to a 1st degree knee sprain. This may cause some swelling even though there is no tear in the ligament. For individuals who suffer from a 1st degree ACL injury, walking, and other regular physical activities are not a bit of a problem.
A partial tear in the ligament is considered to be a 2nd degree knee sprain or ACL injury. In comparison to a 1st degree ACL injury, it is a little more serious and can cause more inflammation and soreness in the knee. Due to a torn ligament, walking is also made a little bit difficult. Furthermore, engaging in any activity may far worsen the condition, that is why resting the leg is advised to people with this type of ACL injury.
The most severe degree of ACL injury occurs when a complete tear is made to the ACL ligament. This case is so severe that in order to walk, the sufferer must have some support from other people or with the use of crutches. While 1st and 2nd degree ACL injuries only requires rest, 3rd degree ACL injuries requires a visit to the doctor for surgery.
The signs and symptoms for ACL injury includes pops and cracks when the leg is moved. Inflammation of the knee joints and constant pain usually follows right after the injury takes place. Moreover, the pain can be so bad that even stretching the leg can be impossible at times. To alleviate pain caused by ACL injury, cold compressed is usually recommended.
Athletes who suffer from ACL injuries are required to have ACL reconstruction surgery. This will help restore the stability of the knee joints and prevent the risk for developing other conditions like arthritis. Right after surgery, physical therapy rehabilitation usually follows. For some people who are not involved in sports though, the use of knee braces is enough to do the trick.
by: Amy Chan
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