What Are the Causes of Anterior and Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries?
Injury to the cruciate ligaments is sometimes referred to as a “sprain.” The ACL is most often stretched or torn (or both) by a sudden twisting motion (for example, when the feet are planted one way and the knees are turned another). The PCL is most often injured by a direct impact, such as in an automobile accident or football tackle. Symptoms and Diagnosis Injury to a cruciate ligament may not cause pain. Rather, the person may hear a popping sound, and the leg may buckle when he or she tries to stand on it. The doctor may perform several tests to see whether the parts of the knee stay in proper position when pressure is applied in different directions. A thorough examination is essential. An MRI is very accurate in detecting a complete tear, but arthroscopy may be the only reliable means of detecting a partial one. Treatment For an incomplete tear, the doctor may recommend that the patient begin an exercise program to strengthen surrounding muscles. The doctor may also prescribe a b
