ACL Injuries

Woman Running on a Country Road at Sunset

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the primary ligaments that stabilizes the knee joint. ACL injuries are among the most common sports-related knee injuries and can range from mild sprains to complete tears. Whether caused by a sudden pivot, awkward landing, or direct impact, an ACL injury can lead to pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty returning to normal activities.

At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our knee specialists provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment options designed to relieve pain, restore stability, and help patients return to the activities they enjoy.

What Is an ACL?

The knee joint is formed by three bones: the femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone), and patella (kneecap). Four major ligaments work together to stabilize the knee. The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, runs through the center of the knee and helps prevent the tibia from moving too far forward while providing rotational stability during movement.

Because the ACL plays such an important role in controlling knee motion, injuries to this ligament can significantly affect balance, mobility, and athletic performance.

What Types of ACL Injuries Are There?

ACL injuries vary in severity and are generally classified as sprains or tears.

Low-Grade ACL Sprains

A mild ACL injury may stretch the ligament without significantly compromising knee stability. Patients may experience pain and swelling but retain much of their normal knee function.

Partial ACL Tears

A partial tear occurs when some, but not all, of the ligament fibers are damaged. Depending on the severity, the knee may remain relatively stable and respond well to conservative treatment.

Complete ACL Tears

A complete ACL tear occurs when the ligament is fully ruptured. In these cases, the knee often feels unstable or gives way during activity. Complete tears are frequently associated with additional injuries to the meniscus, cartilage, or other knee ligaments.

What Causes an ACL Tear?

Most ACL injuries occur during sports and physical activities that place sudden stress on the knee joint.

Common causes include:

Rapid changes in direction while running
Sudden stops or deceleration
Pivoting movements with the foot planted
Landing awkwardly from a jump
Direct contact or collision involving the knee
Participating in sports such as soccer, football, basketball, skiing, tennis, and volleyball

Research has shown that female athletes may experience ACL injuries more frequently than males participating in similar sports due to a combination of biomechanical and anatomical factors.

What Are Torn ACL Symptoms?

Many patients report feeling or hearing a distinct “pop” at the time of injury. Symptoms often develop quickly and may worsen during the first 24 hours.

Common signs of a torn ACL include:

A popping sensation at the time of injury
Pain and swelling within 24 hours
Loss of full range of motion
Tenderness along the joint line
Knee instability or a feeling that the knee may “give way”
Discomfort while walking or changing direction
Difficulty returning to sports or physical activity

If you experience these symptoms after a knee injury, prompt evaluation by an orthopedic specialist can help determine the extent of damage and the best treatment plan.

How Are ACL Injuries Treated?

Treatment depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, age, activity level, lifestyle goals, and whether other structures in the knee have been damaged.

Nonsurgical Treatment for ACL Injuries

Mild ACL sprains
Partial ACL tears
Less active individuals
Patients willing to modify activities and avoid pivoting sports

Nonsurgical treatment options may include physical therapy, strengthening and stability exercises, activity modification, knee bracing, and pain management. Many patients can return to daily activities with improved strength and function through a personalized rehabilitation program.

ACL Surgery

Complete ACL tears
Athletes participating in pivoting or cutting sports
Patients experiencing significant knee instability
ACL injuries combined with meniscus, cartilage, or other ligament damage

ACL reconstruction involves replacing the damaged ligament with a graft to restore knee stability and function. Your orthopedic surgeon will discuss the most appropriate surgical approach based on your injury and goals.

ACL Surgery Recovery Time

Return to desk work within a few weeks
Gradual progression through physical therapy
Return to higher-level athletic activities after strength and stability goals are met
Full return to competitive sports often occurring approximately 9 to 12 months after reconstruction

Get Expert ACL Care at Fox Valley Orthopedics

A torn or sprained ACL can disrupt work, sports, and everyday life. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our experienced orthopedic specialists provide comprehensive care for ACL injuries, from diagnosis and rehabilitation to advanced surgical reconstruction when needed. If you are experiencing knee pain, swelling, instability, or other symptoms of an ACL injury, schedule an appointment with Fox Valley Orthopedics by calling (855) 386-7846.