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The Anterior Cruciate Ligament

Article Index
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament
Anatomy
ACL Function
How The ACL is Injured
Significance of an ACL Tear
ACL Tear Diagnosis
ACL Tear Treatment Options

Introduction

Knee injuries are very common in sports, the workplace and at home. One of the most common knee injuries is a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament. The incidence of injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is estimated at 200,000 injuries per year.

An ACL injury can compromise the function of the knee. This article will help you answer:
  • What is the anterior cruciate ligament?
  • Why is the anterior cruciate ligament important?
  • How does one injure the anterior cruciate ligament?
  • What are the signs and symptoms of anterior cruciate ligament tear?
  • What should one do after he or she suspects and anterior cruciate ligament tear?
  • What are the repercussions of an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament?
  • How is an anterior cruciate ligament tear treated?
  • How does one prevent injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament?


 
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