Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Treatment - Physiotherapist Kaan Akın

What is Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury?

Anterior cruciate ligament injury is a partial or complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament located within the knee joint. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a ligament that provides stability to the knee and controls anterior-to-back movement. ACL injuries usually occur during sports activities or as a result of a traumatic event.

Causes of ACL injuries may include:

1. Sports injuries: ACL injuries can occur due to sudden changes in posture, rapid steering movements, collisions or falls during sports activities. Especially in sports such as football, basketball, skiing, the risk of injury is higher.

2. Traumatic events: ACL injuries can also occur when a direct blow to the knee area is caused by traffic accidents, falls, or a traumatic effect.

Symptoms of ACL injuries can include:

1. Pain in the knee: Severe pain may be felt in the knee after injury. The pain usually comes on suddenly and is concentrated on the side of the injury.

2. Swelling and bruising in the knee: Swelling and bruising can occur in the knee as a result of ACL injury. Swelling usually occurs immediately after injury.

3. Feeling of instability in the knee: People with ACL injuries may experience a feeling of instability in their knees. There may be a feeling of snagging or slipping in the knee.

4. Limitation of movement: The range of motion of the knee may be limited in people with ACL injuries. Especially the full straightening of the knee can be difficult.

5. Cracking sound at the knee: In some cases, people with ACL injuries may hear a clicking or clicking sound when the knee moves.

In case of suspected ACL injury, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Your doctor will guide you for the correct diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the severity of the injury and your condition, treatment options may include conservative treatment (physical therapy, rehabilitation) or surgical intervention.

Physical Therapy After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Surgery

Physical therapy after anterior cruciate ligament injury surgery is important to speed up the healing process and restore knee joint strength and range of motion. The physical therapy program is specially designed to reduce post-surgical pain, control swelling, increase joint movements and strengthen muscles. Here are the methods applied during the physical therapy process after anterior cruciate ligament injury surgery:

1. First stage: In the first weeks after surgery, immobilization (immobility) and the use of crutches may be required. The physical therapist may use treatment approaches such as ice application, compression and elevation (the RICE method) to reduce swelling and promote joint movement.

2. Gaining range of motion: The physiotherapist applies special exercises and mobilization techniques to regain knee joint movements in the postoperative period. At this stage, different techniques such as passive movements (performed by the physiotherapist), active assisted movements (with the help of the patient), active free movements (the patient's own) can be used.

3. Muscle strengthening: Strengthening the muscles around the knee is important. The physiotherapist increases the strength of the muscles through methods such as strengthening exercises and resistance bands. At this stage, various exercises (eg, leg raises, lunges, squats) can be done.

4. Balance and coordination exercises: The physical therapy program aims to regain balance and coordination. Special balance boards, balance pads or balance exercises can be used.

5. Aerobic exercises: In the postoperative period, aerobic exercises (eg, cycling, swimming) directed by a physiotherapist may also be included in the program at an appropriate timing. This can improve overall fitness and support cardiovascular health.

The physical therapy process may vary depending on the person's post-surgical condition, speed of recovery, and the doctor's recommendations. Your physiotherapist will create the appropriate treatment plan for you and monitor your recovery. It is important that the treatment program is implemented regularly and correctly.