Knee Ligaments
The knee joint is stabilized by four main ligaments:
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) , Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL), Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL), Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)
In knee trauma, these ligaments can be stretched, partially torn, or completely torn. The treatment depends on the severity of the ligament injury and whether there are associated injuries to structures like the meniscus or cartilage.
01. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
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The ACL stabilizes the knee by preventing the tibia (shinbone) from moving forward and rotating inward.
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ACL tears are common in sports like football, basketball, and skiing.
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ACL tears are typically complete and often accompanied by meniscus damage or injury to other ligaments.
02. Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)
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The PCL prevents the tibia from sliding backward.
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It is the strongest ligament in the knee, so PCL tears are less common.
03. Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)
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MCL tears usually occur due to trauma from the outside of the knee.
04. Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)
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LCL tears are rare and often occur with other injuries.
TREATMENT
ACL COMPLETE TEAR
01. NON-SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
(for low-demand patients or partial tears)
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Bracing: Provides support for daily activities or low-impact sports
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Physical Therapy: Focus on strengthening surrounding muscles and improving stability.
02. SURGICAL TREATMENT
(for active individuals or high-demand sports)
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ACL Reconstruction: Uses autografts (e.g., hamstring, patellar, or quadriceps tendon) ◆ Restores stability and functionality to the knee.
03. POST-SURGICAL REHABILITATION
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Gradual progression of exercises to regain range of motion, strength, and function.
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Return-to-sport training after 6–12 months, depending on recovery.
04. KEY POINT
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Treatment choice depends on patient activity level, age, and lifestyle demands. Surgical reconstruction is often preferred for active individuals.
PCL COMPLETE TEAR
01. NON-SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
(for low-demand patients or partial tears)
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Bracing: Provides support during daily activities and light sports.
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Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises to stabilize the knee, improve range of motion, and reduce pain.
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Activity Modification: Avoiding high-impact or sports that stress the knee.
02. SURGICAL TREATMENT
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PCL Reconstruction:
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Involves grafting tissue to replace the torn PCL.
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Recommended for active individuals or those with significant knee instability.
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03. POST-SURGICAL REHABILITATION
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Rehab focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and knee function.
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Recovery time is usually 6-12 months, depending on the severity of the tear and the patient’s activity level.
04. KEY POINT
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Non-surgical treatment is often effective for low-demand individuals, while surgery is preferred for those with high functional demands or severe instability.
MULTILIGAMENT KNEE INJURY
01. NON-SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
(for low-demand patients or partial tears)
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Initial Rest and Bracing: To manage swelling and provide stability in the acute phase.
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Physical Therapy: Strengthening surrounding muscles and maintaining range of motion while awaiting surgery, if needed.
02. SURGICAL TREATMENT
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Ligament Reconstruction: Involves repairing or reconstructing multiple torn ligaments, typically through grafts.
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Timing of Surgery: Surgery is often performed within a few weeks to a few months after the injury, depending on the severity and associated damage.
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Complex Procedures: May require staged surgeries for optimal recovery and stability.
03. POST-SURGICAL REHABILITATION
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Focus on regaining knee stability, strength, and function through a structured rehab program.
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Full recovery can take 9-12 months or longer, depending on the extent of the injury and surgery.
04. KEY POINT
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Early intervention and personalized treatment plans are crucial for successful recovery, as multiligament injuries often involve significant damage and extended rehabilitation.