Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury (ACL)

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury involves damage to one of the key ligaments that stabilises the knee. The ACL plays an important role in controlling forward movement and rotation of the tibia relative to the thigh bone, particularly during cutting, pivoting, and landing movements. An ACL injury is a very complex injury and takes around 18 months before a full recovery to sport can be achieved. 

ACL injuries most commonly occur during sports that involve sudden changes of direction, jumping, or rapid deceleration, and often happen without direct contact. They may occur when the knee twists while the foot is planted or during an awkward landing.

ACL injuries vary in severity and may include:

• Partial tears
   
• Complete ruptures
   
• Associated injuries such as meniscal or cartilage damage
   

Common symptoms include a popping sensation at the time of injury, immediate swelling, pain, instability or “giving way” of the knee, and difficulty continuing activity.

Physiotherapy is essential in both non-operative and post-operative ACL management and focuses on:

• Reducing pain and swelling and restoring knee movement
   
• Rebuilding strength, particularly in the quadriceps and hamstrings
   
• Improving balance, control, and movement quality
   
• Guiding a safe and progressive return to sport or daily activities