The ACL is an abbreviation for the Anterior Cruciate Ligament, one of several ligaments in the knee joint. The ACL connects the thigh bone (femur) to the lower leg bone (tibia). The ACL is often injured during strenuous activity such as certain sports. It can be quite painful. For better and quick results get ACL treatment done by Topsurgeons in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills.

What are the Causes of ACL Injuries?

• Sudden twisting of the knee joint – this can happen in many sports such as football, soccer, skiing, and gymnastics.
• Hyperextension of the Knee – when the knee straightens out more than normal, it goes beyond a standard and comfortable range of motion. This often happens when a gymnast performs a dismount.
• Direct Contact (in a contact sport)

What are the Symptoms of ACL Injuries?

• The feeling that the inside of your knee has
  ”popped.”
• Noticeable swelling and deformity of the knee within a few hours after injury.
• Severe knee pain that prevents you from continuing to participate in your sport.
• Discoloration (black and blue) around the knee.
• A feeling that your knee will buckle if you try to stand.

Who Is Likely To Get ACL Injuries?

• Women are much more susceptible than men
• Participants in high-risk sports
• Patients with excess weight
• Patients with muscle weakness/inflexibility

What Does Treatment for ACL Injuries Involve?

• The first-line approach to treating an ACL injury involves rest, ice packs, elevating the area, a compression bandage and sometimes crutches.
• NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, are often helpful in relieving the pain of ACL injuries.
• Physical therapy, usually in combination with other treatment approaches, can strengthen the joints and muscles.
• Intra-articular corticosteroid injections - injections into the joint may prove helpful.

Surgical Treatment

The most common surgical intervention is Arthroscopic Autograft Surgery, in which the ACL is replaced and reconstructed by a piece of tendon taken from another part of the body (an autograft).

Arthroscopic surgery is performed by making several small incisions into the knee, then inserting an arthroscope, which carries the necessary surgical instruments.

What Are The Advantages Of Surgery?

Surgery may provide significant symptomatic relief for sufferers of ACL injuries in cases where other types of medical management are not successful.

How Long Does It Take?

Surgery for ACL injuries typically takes 2-2.5 hours.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

Usually, one surgery should suffice.

What Are My Alternatives to Treat ACL Injuries

• Conservative measures as described above
• Oral glucosamine and chondroitin treatment
• Hyaluronic acid injections (intra-articular)

Will I Have Pain?

Pain should be reduced by treatment. There may be some postoperative pain, but this can be managed by prescription or over-the-counter medications.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

Many patients return to work or school just a few days after surgery.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

One of our board-certified orthopedic surgeons will perform the procedure.

How Much Does It Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover ACL Injuries Treatment?

Insurance should cover this condition and any approved treatments.