A rupture of the cruciate ligamentsis a major knee injury that can have long-term effects on a person's mobility and overall quality of life. The cruciate ligaments, specifically the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), are two key structures in the knee that provide stability and allow for proper function. When one of these ligaments ruptures, it causes painful symptoms and limits physical activities.
What is a rupture of the cruciate ligaments?
A cruciate ligament tear refers to the partial or complete rupture of one of the two cruciate ligaments in the knee - either the anterior cruciate ligament or the posterior cruciate ligament. These ligaments cross each other inside the knee joint, forming an 'X'. They play a key role in stabilizing the knee and allow smooth, controlled movement.
The anterior cruciate ligament is the ligament that is injured most often and usually in sports activities while the posterior cruciate ligament is injured less often, but when injured causes significant instability in the knee. Both types of injuries can severely limit a person's ability to move and participate in physical activities, especially those that require quick changes of direction or high impact movements.
What causes rupture of the cruciate ligaments?
The mechanisms that lead to rupture depend on the ligament involved, the level of force applied to the knee and the physical condition of the individual. The most common causes of cruciate ligament rupture are:
- Injury, either in sports and contact sports such as football and basketball due to sudden changes in direction or direct hits, or in accidents such as car accidents.
- Overuse and degeneration due to sports, physical labor or age. This degeneration makes the knee more vulnerable to rupture, even in relatively low-impact situations.
Symptoms of rupture of the cruciate ligaments
Cruciate ligament tears present distinct symptoms that can help in early recognition of the injury, however these symptoms can vary in intensity depending on the severity of the tear and the ligament involved. The most common symptoms are:
- Immediate pain and swelling at the time of injury. The pain can be sharp and intense, especially when moving the knee or when trying to bear weight. Swelling usually follows within a few hours. The swelling can severely limit mobility and make it difficult to walk or turn the knee.
- Instability and loss of function. Since the cruciate ligaments are key stabilizers of the knee, a tear can cause significant joint instability, especially during activities that require rapid changes in direction or jumping.
- Limited range of motion, which can be particularly noticeable when patients try to extend or fully bend the knee.
- A characteristic sound at the time of injury, which may indicate a complete rupture of the ligament.
Early diagnosis of cruciate ligament rupture is important in determining the best treatment. The procedure involves taking a medical history, physical and clinical examination, while imaging tests (X- rays or MRI) are used to confirm the diagnosis.
How is rupture of the cruciate ligaments treated?
The treatment of a cruciate ligament tear depends on several factors, such as the severity of the tear, the patient's age, their activity level and whether there are other injuries. The primary goal of treatment is to restore stability to the knee and allow the person to return to normal activities.
Conservative treatment
For people with a partial tear or less severe symptoms, conservative treatment may be adequate and usually includes:
- Rest and immobilization (usually using a splint) to manage the swelling and protect the injured ligament.
- Physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee and restore stability and functionality of the joint.
- Medication to manage pain.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is often required for complete ruptures, especially in people who are active or participate in sports. It usually involves using a graft from the patient’s own hamstring, patellar or quadriceps tendons to replace the damaged ligament. An orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports injuries can offer a personalized treatment approach, depending on the patient's gender, age, requirements and activities, and use the appropriate tendon graft. This technique is also known as arthroscopy with ligamentoplasty and provides a variety of advantages to patients, including smaller incisions, less pain and faster recovery.
After surgery, patients are immediately mobilized - within a few hours - with aids (bacteria, crutches, etc.) and partial mobilization of the operated lower limb. They then follow a programme of physiotherapy to regain strength, stability and range of motion of the knee joint. In terms of a full return to sporting activities, especially in the case of professional athletes, it is estimated to take about 6 months.
Strengthening exercises, correct technique during sports activities and the use of protective equipment can help prevent rupture of the cruciate ligaments. Especially the “FIFA 11+” protocol offers when implemented proven results.
To find out more about cruciate ligament rupture, contact us at 6943903343 (secretariat) or 6949196061 (doctor) at orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make an appointment.
