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Introduction
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) has a very important role in stabilizing the knee joint. It prevents the lower bone of the knee joint (tibia) from sliding forward on the top bone (femur). The ACL also has a role in providing rotational stability to the knee. ACL injuries have increased a lot over the past 20 years, especially in teenage females. It is thought that the increased incidence of ACL injuries is due to the increase in higher-intensity competitive sports and early specialization.
ACL injuries can be sustained through both contact and non-contact injuries. Contact injuries occur when the knee receives a direct blow, usually when the foot is planted, such as in football. They account for approximately 30% of ACL injuries. Non-contact injuries are more common, accounting for approximately 70% of ACL injuries. These injuries usually occur when there is sudden deceleration, especially with a change of direction, landing from a jump, pivoting, or twisting. ACL injuries often occur in combination with medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries and meniscus injuries. ACL Part 2 will focus on the risk factors for ACL injury.
Reference:
Anterior cruciate ligament injury. Physiopedia website, available at: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Anterior_Cruciate_Ligament_(ACL)_Injury