ACL Reconstruction Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) AnatomyThe anterior cruciate ligament is a thick rope like structure made from collagen that joins the femur to the tibia. Its main function is to provide rotational stability to a the knee joint. The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the major stabilising ligaments in the knee. It acts as a strong brace 1. Causes ACL Injuries ACL injuries are one of the most common ligament injuries in the body. Once the anterior cruciate ligament is torn it has a poor ability to heal and typically will not heal if untreated. The ACL can tear with different types of injury such as: Twisting and rotational injuries, such as occurs with a sudden change in direction or speed. Contact injuries in collision sports or road accidents. Hyperextension injuries. Hyperflexion injuries. 2.Symptoms of an ACL Injury Patients report the following associated symptoms of anterior cruciate ligament injuries: An audible 'pop' sound from the knee A sensation of something tearing inside the knee A feeling as if the knee has momentarily 'come out of its joint' These symptoms are usually followed by: Swelling of the knee Difficulty walking and Pain Instability of the knee is particularly noticeable: On uneven ground or During sport when a patient attempts a sidestepping or twisting manoeuvre 3.Types of ACL Injury Most ACL injuries are complete tears Partial ACL tears are very rare When partial tears occur, they usually progress to complete tears over time 4.ACL Injury Diagnosis ACL tears are diagnosed by the following: History of injury Nature of knee pain and other symptoms Physical examination Imaging tests Imaging tests In your assessment I will: Take a medical history Perform a physical examination Assess the joint's range of motion Organise appropriate imaging tests