How are ACL tears diagnosed?
Most ACL tears can be detected by experienced examiners as the knee joint will undergo abnormal movements when stressed. There is a variation in the normal range of these tests so the amount of movement is compared to the other knee. Sometimes these tests can be inconclusive immediately after an injury, due to excessive swelling. If clinical testing is inconclusive and it is very important to know at an early stage whether the ACL is torn, a special test called an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Scan can be performed, although these are costly and are not covered by Medicare or health insurance. Standard X-rays will show fractures but do not show ACL tears.
