At Memphis Orthopaedic Group, we see several hundred anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) patients a year, ranging from adolescents to people in their 50s. Their injuries can range from simple strains or partial tears to complete tears, as the ACL is the most common ligament in the knee that is completely torn.

The ACL is one of the four major ligaments of the knee, originating from deep within the notch of the femur (thigh bone). It attaches to the end of the femur at the back of the joint and passes down through the knee to the front of the flat upper surface of the tibia (the shin bone). It passes across the knee in a diagonal direction and with the PCL (posterior cruciate ligament) makes a cross shape (hence the name cruciate ligaments).

The most important thing for people to know about ACL injury is its ability to mimic minor knee injury.  The sensation of the knee giving way, buckling or feeling unstable is a common sensation of those developing ACL insufficiency over time. Frequent repetitive injuries to the knee can result in a more severe, compounded injury. So, when in doubt, let a trained professional evaluate the knee.

A torn ACL is a relatively common knee injury among athletes, occurring through a twisting force being applied to the knee. A torn ACL can also result from a direct blow to the knee from the outside, as might occur during a football or rugby tackle. Many careers involve some of the same type maneuvers as would be required during certain sporting activities, and the result can be hurt ACLs.

Symptoms of ACL injury:

• an audible and palpable pop or crack at the time

of the injury

• feeling of initial instability (yet may be masked

later by extensive swelling or bleeding in the knee)

• restricted movements, especially inability to fully

straighten the knee

If you suspect an injury, go to the emergency room, your personal physician or orthopedic surgeon. Injuries to surrounding area might be made worse by repetitive weight bearing associated with walking. Evaluation by a qualified medical specialist will allow for damage containment and a shorter recovery time. Partial tears may be rehabilitated in two to three months. A complete tear with surgical reconstruction can require up to 6 to twelve months to return to full function. Therapy or intervention for an ACL injury depends heavily upon the injury’s severity, other associated injuries, activity level and age of the patient.

John Lochemes, M.D., is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and has been practicing with Memphis Orthopaedic Group for 12 years. He completed his specialty training at the Campbell Clinic in 1993. He practices at all four MOG locations and can often work patients in the same or next day.