Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

Abstract

Injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is common and affects young individuals, particularly girls, who are active in sports that involve jumping, pivoting, as well as change of direction. ACL injury is associated with potential long-term complications including reduction in activity levels and osteoarthritis. Multiple intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors have been identified, which include anatomic variations, neuromuscular deficits, biomechanical abnormalities, playing environment, and hormonal status. Multicomponent prevention programs have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of this injury in both girls and boys. Programs should include a combination of strengthening, stretching, aerobic conditioning, plyometrics, proprioceptive and balance training, as well as education and feedback regarding body mechanics and proper landing pattern. Preventive programs should be implemented at least 6 wk prior to competition, followed by a maintenance program during the season.

Comparison of Diagnostic Accuracy of Physical Examination and MRI in the Most Common Knee Injuries

“…Damage to tissues such as menisci, ligaments or hyaline cartilage can lead to irreversible osteoarthritic changes of the joint [1,2]. Therefore, quick and accurate diagnosis of intraarticular lesions, which is necessary for selecting adequate treatment, is of great importance [3].…”

A systematic review to evaluate exercise for anterior cruciate ligament injuries: does this approach reduce the incidence of knee osteoarthritis?

“…Researchers have identified a higher incidence of ACL injuries sustained in women compared to men, with a ratio of 3:1 25. As 70%–80% of ACL injuries result from noncontact, often occurring during sport, younger females are at a high risk for injury 3. Alternatively, OA is a progressive degenerative disease that exists more prominently in women ≥55 years of age 26.…”

“…Therefore, ACL injuries occur most frequently among young, competitive athletes 2. The primary function of the ACL is to stabilize the knee by resisting hyperextension, anterior tibial translation, and knee joint internal/external rotation 3. The ACL also helps to resist varus and valgus forces when the knee is in a flexed position 3.…”

“…The primary function of the ACL is to stabilize the knee by resisting hyperextension, anterior tibial translation, and knee joint internal/external rotation 3. The ACL also helps to resist varus and valgus forces when the knee is in a flexed position 3. Injury of the ACL occurs when stresses applied directly or indirectly to the knee exceed the ACL tissue tolerance.…”

“…Injury of the ACL occurs when stresses applied directly or indirectly to the knee exceed the ACL tissue tolerance. Direct contact injuries generally occur through a forceful valgus stress and often result in concomitant injuries to the medial meniscus and the medial collateral ligament 3. ACL injuries are most commonly caused through noncontact mechanisms.…”