ACL Tear

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most important ligaments in the knee. It is responsible for connecting the femur (leg bone) to the tibia (shin bone). It also provides rotational stability.

The ACL is commonly injured or torn while playing sports that require running, jumping, and cutting movements. ACL injuries require specialized treatment and the Fellowship Trained and Board Certified Knee Specialists at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates have the training, skills, and experience needed to treat patients with ACL injuries.

Patients who injure their knee and experience any of the following symptoms are advised to make an appointment with a Knee Specialist at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Instability when walking
• Decreased range of motion
• Tenderness

Once the injury is diagnosed, an appropriate treatment plan is prescribed.

Nonsurgical treatment options may effectively treat partial ACL tears. Pain and anti-inflammatory medications may be used to decrease pain and inflammation associated with the injury. Physical Therapy is also an important part of nonsurgical treatment as strengthening the knee as much as possible helps improve symptoms and decrease the risk of future injury. In many cases, specialists will recommend that patients wear a brace when participating in activities and sports.

Surgical treatment may be necessary to treat complete ACL tears. The Knee Specialists at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates perform arthroscopic ACL reconstructions using advanced surgical techniques and equipment.  This procedure is performed by making a small incision into the knee joint and repairing the torn ligament using small surgical instruments and recreating a stable ligament.  Following surgery, Physical Therapy is used to expedite your recovery.