Services / ACL Repair

Because your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is an essential part of your knee joints, damage to this connective tissue can cause significant pain. Residents in and around Auburn and Bonney Lake, Washington, can rely on the experienced team at Cascade Orthopaedics for state-of-the-art diagnosis and treatment for ACL injuries. That process begins by booking a visit online or by phone today.  

What is the ACL, and how does it become damaged?

The bones that make up your knee joint include the tibia, femur, and patella. Four primary ligaments hold these bones in place, and the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) runs diagonally across the middle of the joint. The ACL works to prevent your tibia from moving in front of your femur, and also stabilizes the knee. 

Because your knees go through daily stress and strain, damage is common. Some minor issues will heal without treatment, while others require more advanced care. Around half of all ACL injuries occur simultaneously as damage to the articular cartilage, meniscus, or other ligaments. 

People who play high-intensity sports like football, hockey, or soccer have higher risks of ACL damage. But you don’t have to be an elite athlete to damage this part of your knee. Even certain fitness activities can increase your risk of ACL damage.  

What are some symptoms of ACL damage?

Many ACL injuries happen in a way that is impossible to ignore. They often occur while you’re playing sports, exercising, or participating in high-impact physical activity, like jumping on a trampoline. Many people report an audible “popping” sound at the time of injury, usually accompanied by significant pain. 

Additional symptoms include:

• Inability to continue placing weight on the knee
• Limited range of motion in the knee joint
• Rapid-onset swelling
• Sensation of instability or “giving way” when placing weight on the joint

If you experience these symptoms, reach out to Cascade Orthopaedics, to schedule a thorough diagnostic exam. A full range of treatment options is available, including physical therapy, rehabilitation, and surgical ACL reconstruction. ACL autograft and ACL allograft techniques can rebuild the ligament using tissue from your own body or that of a donor. 

What can I do to prevent ACL injuries?

Staying healthy and fit is a great way to prevent ACL injuries and most other types of joint problems. Exercises that strengthen your core muscles (lower abdomen, hips, pelvis) will improve your stability. 

Leg workouts can strengthen the muscles that support your knees and lower legs. If you engage in athletic training or play, activities should include exercises that teach proper techniques for jumping, landing, and making swift changes in direction. 

Pushing too far beyond your current fitness level will increase your risk of ACL injury. When beginning a new exercise program, take care to gradually increase the intensity and listen to the messages your body sends you. Pushing too hard or too fast will only lead to injury and delayed progress. 

If you need ACL repair, schedule a visit online or by phone today with Cascade Orthopaedics.