Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries

More than 400,000 ACL injuries occur every year in the United States in active people and athletes. Often, the injury can lead to long-term problems in stability and degeneration.

When the ACL is injured, the pain can be excruciating -- or minor -- but the result is debilitating. If you have -- or suspect you have -- an ACL injury, we can help.

We treat all forms of ACL stretches, tears and ruptures successfully because of our years of experience and our multidisciplinary approach to ACL treatment. We have extensive experience with children and have treated ACLs in infants. We involve all areas of our health care team in assessing your condition -- and getting you better and fully functioning as soon as possible.

We have experience with all ACL graft options, including autographs (tissue transfer from your body) and allographs (tissue transfer from a donor) and can advise you on the best choice for you depending on your age and activity level.

If your meniscus is injured, the sooner you are treated, the more likely a repair (not removal) will be possible. If your meniscus is removed when you are a teenager, your risk of getting arthritis at an early age skyrockets. We are experts at meniscus repair.

Note: If you have suffered a trauma -- whether it's from a fall or a sports injury -- it's important to seek treatment as soon you can, or you could risk further complications such as stiffness, prolonged pain or scar tissue in the joint. Getting that diagnosis quickly and accurately means we can treat you while the injury is simpler to treat.

Symptoms of an ACL Injury

Some people have minimal to no pain, minimal swelling and feel like they could play, but be careful.

The typical symptoms of an ACL tear or injury include:

1. A loud popping sound at the moment of injury
2. Inability to bear weight on your leg
3. Instability
4. Severe knee pain at the moment of the injury and more pain when you try to stand
5. Swelling

Diagnosis of ACL Injuries

Diagnosis involves a clinical exam and may be supported by imaging tests such as X-rays and MRI to assess any additional damage to the knee. We utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to ensure accurate and comprehensive assessments.

Treatment for ACL Injuries (Non-surgical)

Small ACL stretches or tears may require a brace and/or physical rehabilitation. We work closely with the experts in our Rehabilitation area to give you a plan of treatment that will eliminate pain, stabilize your joint and prevent further damage. Partial tears may not require surgery if a lifestyle change is acceptable.

Contact Us

You're about to make an important decision, and we want to help you make a good one. Our staff will be glad to talk with you about your options and how we can help.