Understanding Torn ACLs in Sports

Introduction

• Common injuries in football/soccer include torn ACLs.
• Injuries often occur from tackles or sudden stops/turns.

Anatomy of the Knee

• Three Main Bones:
  • Femur: Thigh bone
  • Tibia: Shin bone
  • Patella: Kneecap
• Ligaments for Stabilization:
  • Collateral Ligaments:
    • Medial (MCL): Inner side of knee
    • Lateral (LCL): Outer side of knee
  • Cruciate Ligaments:
    • Anterior (ACL): Controls back and forth motion, provides rotational stability
    • Posterior (PCL): Works with ACL for knee stability
• Additional Structures:
  • Cartilage: Articular and meniscus
  • Muscles: Quadriceps and hamstrings

Risk Factors for ACL Injury

• Gender: Females are at higher risk due to muscle strength and hormonal differences.
• Sports Activities:
  • Football, American football, gymnastics, downhill skiing
• Incorrect Movements:
  • Knees moving inward during squats
• Other Factors:
  • Poor quality turf, loose equipment
• Recreational Sports:
  • Not limited to professional athletes

Causes of ACL Injuries

1. Force or blow to the knee (e.g., sliding tackle)
2. Pivoting/turning with foot planted
3. Sudden change in running speed
4. Awkward landing after a jump

Types of ACL Injuries

• Grade 1:
  • Ligament is mildly damaged/stretched but stable
• Grade 2 (Partial Tear):
  • Ligament stretched and loose
• Grade 3 (Complete Tear):
  • Ligament splits into two parts, joint instability
• Avulsion:
  • ACL is detached from the bone; common in children

The Unhappy Triad Injury

• Occurs from severe knee impact
• Involves tearing ACL, MCL, and meniscus
• Causes significant pain and distress

Conclusion

• First aid and diagnosis information will be covered in a follow-up video.