How are ACL injuries classified?
Most clinicians describe a torn ACL as either partial or complete. This is based on physical examination and imaging findings (discussed later). Do women really tear their ACLs more than men? Women in sports such as soccer, basketball, tennis and volleyball are significantly more prone to a torn ACL than men. The discrepancy has been attributed to differences between the sexes in anatomy, general muscular strength, reaction time of muscle contraction and coordination, and training techniques. Hormonal causes have also been investigated although it is still unclear what role they may play in a ACL tear if any. Lastly, women have a relatively wider pelvis, requiring the femur to angle toward the knees (knock knee) which may also be a predisposing factor towards a torn ACL. How do I know if I have torn my ACL? Patients who suffer an ACL injury often report hearing an audible pop followed by significant swelling. Afterwards, patients will may complain of instability of the knee (i.e., a “w
