ACL Injuries: A Common Concern In Sports

Dr. Bhushan Ganvir, Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine Surgeon at Lokmanya Group of Hospitals, Pune, sheds light on a very common yet crucial topic – ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injuries. He explains that such injuries are frequently observed in young individuals, especially those involved in sports.

Most patients visiting the OPD report a twisting injury to the knee while playing, followed by intense pain and swelling. The primary approach in such cases is to immobilize the knee and focus on reducing inflammation through pain medications, ice packs, bed rest, and leg elevation.

The Importance Of Clinical Assessment

Once the initial swelling subsides, clinical assessment becomes essential. Dr. Ganvir emphasizes that an MRI showing a ligament tear does not always mean that surgery is required.

The decision for surgery is guided by both subjective symptoms (like instability while walking or running) and objective findings. If a patient experiences instability and imaging confirms a torn ACL, then surgical intervention might be needed.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

If instability is observed clinically and confirmed radiologically, arthroscopic ACL reconstruction is recommended. This involves using the patient’s own muscles, typically the semitendinosus and gracilis tendons, to create a new ligament.

Dr. Ganvir points out that this minimally invasive procedure enables patients to begin walking the very next day. With proper care, sports activities can be resumed within 6 to 8 months.

Timely Diagnosis Leads To Better Recovery

According to Dr. Ganvir, the key to a successful outcome lies in a combined approach—subjective symptoms, objective clinical tests, and radiological confirmation. This approach not only ensures faster recovery but also helps in preventing long-term complications such as arthritis.

He encourages patients to seek prompt and proper assessment for ACL injuries to return to normal life and avoid further damage.

FAQs

1.What is an ACL injury?
An ACL injury is a tear or sprain of the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee, often caused by twisting movements during sports.
2.Who is most likely to suffer from an ACL injury?
ACL injuries are most commonly seen in young individuals involved in sports or physical activities.
3. Does every ACL tear require surgery?
No, surgery is only required if there is clinical instability and MRI confirmation of a full ligament tear.
4. How is ACL surgery performed?
ACL reconstruction is done arthroscopically using tendons from the patient's own body, typically from the thigh.
5. How soon can I walk after ACL surgery?
Patients are usually encouraged to start walking from the very next day post-surgery.
6. When can I return to sports after ACL reconstruction?
With proper rehabilitation, patients can resume sports activities within 6 to 8 months.
7. Why is early clinical assessment important?
Early assessment helps reduce swelling, determine the severity of injury, and avoid long-term issues like arthritis.