Tearing your ACL sucks. It’s not an injury that you want to experience anytime soon. It hurts like heck when it happens, and the recovery from it can be long and arduous. Thus, the following is my attempt at helping you to PREVENT one. Whether you are a recreational or professional athlete, or just a regular person looking to enjoy life to the fullest, this article is for you!
First, the basics…
The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is one of the main ligaments that help to stabilize your knee joint. It connects your thighbone (femur) to your shinbone (tibia). ACL injuries most commonly occur during sports that involve sudden stops, jumping or changes in direction — sports like basketball, soccer, football, tennis, skiing, volleyball and gymnastics.
Many people hear or feel a “pop” in the knee when an ACL injury occurs. Your knee may then swell, feel unstable and become too painful on which to bear weight.
Depending on the severity of your ACL injury, treatment may include rest and rehabilitation exercises to help you regain strength and stability, or surgery to replace the torn ligament followed by rehabilitation. There is good news though. A proper training program may help reduce the risk of an ACL injury.
For more information, and to see some exercises that can help to keep your knees healthy and strong for many years to come, check out the following video!
So there you have it: some tips on how NOT to tear your ACL. I hope this information helps you on your journey to a healthier, more mobile and injury-free life.
That’s been a word from me (Dr. Chris) – #notyoureverydayortho 
