Knee Ligament Injuries

Ligaments are elastic bands of tissue that connect bones to each other and act to provide stability and strength to the joint. There are four major ligaments in the knee.

-          ACL

-          PCL

-          MCL

-          LCL

-           

How are the ligaments injured?

The most common two ligaments to be injured are the ACL and PCL.

The ACL is often over stretched and or torn during a sudden twisting movement. These movements are more likely to occur during sports such as skiing, basketball and football.

The PCL is often injured by sudden, direct impact to the joint such as in a sporting tackle or car accident.

Symptoms of ligament injury

Our Chiropractors at Body Care Health & Chiropractic has seen people presenting with a range of symptoms as a knee ligament injury can often resemble other conditions. It is therefore important to have it diagnosed correctly.

Often the person will hear a popping sound as the injury is happening, then followed by the leg giving way when trying to stand and put pressure on it. Swelling can then also follow. Often people will not experience pain straight away.

Diagnosis and Treatment

As mentioned previously, it is important to have the injury diagnosed correctly. In our appointments here at Body Care Health & Chiropractic, we will complete thorough medical history and physical examination, performing certain orthopaedic tests to help us diagnose the issue. Imaging such as x-ray and/or MRI will also be helpful in confirmation and in assessing the severity of the damage.

A treatment plan specific for you and your situation will be put together by your Chiropractor which may include:

-          Muscle strengthening exercises

-          Ice pack advice to reduce the swelling

-          Surgery

-          Protective equipment such as a knee brace

If you would like to find out more information, please contact us at Body Care Health & Chiropractic on 0409 712 075 or send us an email to felicity@bodycarechiro.com.au