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ACL Tear

Tearing of one of the ligaments in the knee that is responsible for maintaining knee stability.

Description:

The knee joint consists of a group of 4 ligaments that connect the thigh bone to the shin bone. Each of these ligaments plays a role in ensuring knee stability. The anterior cruciate ligament or ACL is one of these ligaments. The ACL acts like a rope that anchors the knee when the knee turns in and when the shin bone glides forward on the thigh bone as is the case with weight bearing. An ACL tear is amongst the most common knee injuries and is often prevalent in athletes or individuals participating in activities that place a high demand on the knees such as basketball and football.

 Causes:

  • Abruptly changing direction while moving
  • Suddenly stopping during a run
  • Incorrect landing on a jump
  • A sudden change in direction (aka “cutting”)
  • Direct physical contact such as a tackle in football
  • Pivoting aggressively with the foot planted 

 

Symptoms:

  • A “popping” sensation in the knee when the injury first occurs
  • Swelling of the knee a few hours following the injury
  • A sensation of the knee feeling unstable as if it is “giving out”
  • Reduction in range of motion at the knee
  • Severe knee pain
  • Experiencing difficulty with strengthening the injured knee

What Can PhysioFlow Do For My ACL Tear?

Provision of a multiphase rehabilitation exercise plan with detailed in clinic instructions as well a home exercise routine with videos demonstrating the proper execution of all exercises. This plan is aimed at optimizing range of motion, strengthening the muscles that surround the knee, balance training and optimizing proprioception (awareness of the position of one’s knee in space).

Use of physical therapy modalities such as interferential current (IFC) in order to promote healing, reduce inflammation and decrease pain. 

ACL Tear