Cruciate Ligament Tear

There are four ligaments that provide protection against abnormal knee movements.  The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) prevents the lower leg from moving back to front, the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) prevents the front to back movement, the medial collateral ligament (MCL) prevents lateral movement, and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) prevents the medial movement (all motions with respect to the upper leg).  Injuries to the knee often involve more than one structure because the forces that injure them come from many directions.  Rehabilitation of the muscles around the knee can be a key component in a “speedy” and thorough recovery from a cruciate ligament injury.  An evaluation would be needed to see whether a surgical consultation with an orthopedist would be necessary. Regardless, proper balancing of the knee musculature through rehabilitation can both assist in recovery and prevent reoccurrence of this injury.