ACL Tear Treatment Near Fairfax, VA
An ACL tear is an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament, one of four key ligaments that stabilize the knee joint. Specifically, the ACL connects the bottom of the thighbone (femur) to the top of the shinbone (tibia). This tough band of tissue can become frayed or torn if it is overstretched, which can happen if the knee is twisted, bent sideways or straightened beyond its normal limits. When an ACL tears, a “popping” or “snapping” sensation can sometimes be felt, followed by knee pain and swelling that can be quite severe.
The knee specialists at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center (NOC) near Fairfax, Virginia, frequently treat ACL tears in athletes who participate in sports that involve frequent jumping or pivoting, such as basketball, football, soccer, skiing and gymnastics. We also see patients who sustain an ACL tear through direct trauma, such as a forceful blow to the side of the knee.
How We Treat an ACL Tear
At NOC, we offer a full range of conservative and surgical treatment options for ACL tears. We take a personalized approach to orthopedic care, working closely with each patient to determine the optimal plan based on many unique factors, including:
- The extent of the tear; i.e., whether it is diagnosed as a grade I, II or III sprain
- The location of the damage
- The stability of the knee joint
- The presence of other knee injuries or conditions, such as osteoarthritis
- The patient’s age, overall health, lifestyle and preferences
- The patient’s ability and willingness to complete a long and rigorous rehabilitation program
Usually, treatment for a partial ACL tear begins conservatively with PRICE therapy, which involves:
- Protection
- Rest
- Ice applications
- Compression
- Elevation
With physical therapy, it may be possible to strengthen the muscles that support the knee enough to allow for a gradual return to daily activities without surgery. In the meantime, a supportive knee brace can be worn to enhance mobility.
Sometimes, an unrepaired ACL tear can eventually damage the meniscus, which is the protective cartilage that reduces friction between the bones in the knee joint. Because meniscal damage can lead to early-onset knee arthritis, many athletes and other active individuals opt for a surgical ACL tear repair followed by a targeted physical therapy program designed to rehabilitate the knee.
Benefit From Comprehensive Orthopedic Care at NOC
At NOC, you can benefit from the latest innovations in ACL tear treatment from our experienced knee specialists. Every board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine physician in our practice is committed to rehabilitating our patients’ injuries quickly and safely. To learn more, contact us today to set up an appointment at our world-class orthopedic center near Fairfax, VA.