How to Diagnose an ACL Knee Injury

Previously published in Examiner

There are various sports injuries that require specialized care. McGill University's Sport Medicine Clinic in Montreal is one of the best sports medicine clinics in the world. "services include acute care coverage, electrotherapy, assessment and treatment by physiotherapists and athletic therapists, biodex isokinetic testing, consultations in sport psychology, nutrition, osteopathy and massage and taping."

An ACL injury happens when there are sudden stops or directional turns applied in the game of basketball, volleyball, soccer or tennis and some other sports.

Though most ACL injuries are related to exercise and sports, the tearing of the ligament has been known to happen when a person slows down to turn direction with their foot firmly planted (not moving with the turn), twisting the knee, or overextending it.

An ACL injury is most often due to a descend from a jump in a sport like basketball, skiing, volleyball which was not performed properly and caused a tear in the knee ligaments. It also happens when the knee has been jerked quickly in a different direction.

Tests and diagnosis for ACL Injuries

If you have suffered an ACL injury, the first thing your doctor will do is a physical exam. The doctor will check both knees to see any difference between them. The doctor will also move the injured knee to see if it locks, how painful it is, and so on.

Most of the time a diagnosis is made just on the physical exam, but there are times when your doctor will need other exams to determine the severity of the tearing.

X-rays

X-rays are good to see if bones have been broken, but cannot determine torn tissue or ligaments.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

This machine measures sounds waves and is good for both hard and soft tissue. The MRI will show how much damage has been done to the ligaments and cartilage surrounding the bones of the knee.

Ultrasound

These sound waves are useful to see the damaged caused to cartilage, muscles, tendons and ligaments of the knee. The ultrasound also checks the internal structures.

Arthroscopy

The arthroscopy is a tiny tube inserted directly into the knee where the doctor can see the damage with his or her own eyes and can repair some of the problems that arise.

Source:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/acl-injury/DS00898/DSECTION=tests-and-diagnosis