Do you experience knee instability? Are you worried about changing directions when walking because you are afraid of sharp knee pain? Do you favor one leg more than the other?
Knee irritation with certain movements is a sign that your Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) may have too much laxity or that your ACL is damaged.
Tibio-Femoral Joint Anatomy:
– 4 Ligaments of The Knee Joint
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) – This ligament is located at the center of the knee that controls rotation and forward glide of the tibia
- Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) – This ligament is located in the center of the knee and controls backward glide of the tibia
- Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) – This ligament provides stability to the inner knee.
- Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) – This ligament provides stability to the outer knee.
Goals of ACL Injury Rehabilitation:
- Gain Functional Stability in The Knee
- Repair Muscle Strength of Structures That Cross The Knee Joint (quadriceps, hamstrings, etc)
- Maximize Function During Activities of Daily Living (ADL)
- Decrease The Risk of Re-Injury
Why Choose Physical Therapy?
A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) will evaluate your individual knee structure and function. Based on the evaluation, a therapist will determine which factors and impairments are contributing to your pain. Through a specific individualized plan of care, a PT can assist with improving your knee strength and stability.
If you are recovering from an ACL Repair Surgery or if you believe that ACL laxity is contributing to your pain, call us today at 703-761-1871 to receive a personalized physical therapy evaluation. Relieve your knee pain, improve your knee instability, and get back to your life!
Written by: Dr. Kevin Teng, DPT
Tags: acl injury, sport injury, Physical Therapy, physical therapist, knee pain, choosept, arlingtonva, alexandriava, falls churchva, springfieldva
