You twist your knee while playing football, running, or even stepping off a curb. You hear a "pop." Your knee swells and feels weak. Many people ignore this and hope it will heal on its own. But these could be ACL tear symptoms, and the right treatment at the right time can save your knee from long-term damage.
In this blog, we explain the signs of an ACL tear, when you can heal without surgery, and when you need an operation. If you are looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Thane this guide will help you take the first step.
The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is a strong band inside your knee. It connects your thigh bone to your shin bone. It keeps your knee stable when you run, jump, or change direction.
An ACL tear happens when this ligament is stretched too far or breaks. It can be a partial tear or a complete tear. It is common in sports like football, cricket, badminton, and basketball. It can also happen in a fall or a road accident.
Knowing the signs early helps you get treatment faster. Watch out for these:
Not everyone has all these signs. Some people feel only mild pain, but the knee keeps "giving way." This is a warning sign that should not be ignored.
An orthopedic doctor in Thane will first ask how the injury happened. Then the doctor will check your knee for swelling, movement, and stability. Simple tests like the Lachman test show if the ligament is loose.
An MRI scan is usually advised. It shows the exact type of tear and also checks for damage to the meniscus (the knee cushion) and other ligaments. X-rays may be done to rule out a broken bone.
Not every ACL tear needs an operation. Non-surgical treatment may work if: