Recognizing a torn anterior cruciate ligament
A torn cruciate ligament can occur during an activity. Often someone makes a forced turning movement while the leg is loaded and the foot is fixed on the ground. This is then accompanied by the feeling or sound that something has snapped in the knee, resulting in pain. From that moment on, the knee will become swollen within a few hours. An unstable feeling may be experienced when walking. In that case, it is important to contact a doctor or physiotherapist quickly. The instability can damage the cartilage in the knee. In addition, there is a risk that the knee will twist again.
What is the difference between an anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament?
The posterior cruciate ligament is stronger than the anterior cruciate ligament. The anterior cruciate ligament is located at the front of the knee and has the important role of preventing the lower leg from moving too far forward. The posterior cruciate ligament prevents overextension of the knee and inhibits the backward movement of the lower leg relative to the upper leg. Because the posterior cruciate ligament is much stronger than the anterior cruciate ligament, more force is needed to tear the cruciate ligament.
Cruciate ligament surgery not necessary
In a number of cases it is decided not to undergo cruciate ligament surgery. If the anterior cruciate ligament is not operated on, a physiotherapist will help restore muscle strength, endurance and coordination. Sometimes a physiotherapist also helps to modify physical activity in such a way that there is less pressure on the knee. However, if the posterior cruciate ligament is torn, cruciate ligament surgery is often necessary.
Life without cruciate ligament possible
It is possible to live without a cruciate ligament. Surgical treatment is therefore not necessary for everyone. For example, if someone does not exercise much and does not intend to do so, a new cruciate ligament is not necessarily necessary. Athletes can also sometimes go through life without a cruciate ligament. However, during physical activities it is important that no instability is experienced. This can damage the cartilage in the knee. It is even possible that the knee is twisted again and thus damages the meniscus or other structures in the knee.
The right exercises are essential
Guidance by a physiotherapist is an indispensable link in the recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament injury. This is regardless of whether a cruciate ligament has been operated on or not. An officially recognized physiotherapist knows exactly which muscles need to be trained and which exercises can be done to make the knee more stable.
Would you like to know more about effective recovery from a torn cruciate ligament without surgery?
Do you have any questions after reading this information? Please contact us or read here further. Would you opt for surgery? Then the blog is with important information for anterior cruciate ligament surgery interesting to read!
