ACL tears are one of the most common knee injuries, especially among athletes. Left untreated, an ACL tear can cause pain, limit your mobility, and worsen over time to cause problems like osteoarthritis. Therefore, it is important to be treated by a skilled physician as soon as possible after you sustain your injury. Below, we will look at some basics about ACL tears, as well as how and where you can find the top rated ACL surgeon in the City of Orange.
About ACL Tears
The knee contains four ligaments: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL). Together, these ligaments work together to provide the knee with stability while also facilitating its movement.
ACL tears most often occur after the knee is subjected to sudden twisting or tearing, as can occur during falls, sudden stops, and turns. Athletes who play sports like football are especially prone to ACL tears, as are middle aged individuals. ACL tears vary in severity from mild, in which the ligament is stretched but intact, to severe, in which the ligament is severed into two pieces.
Treatment for ACL Tears
Moderate to severe ACL tears do not have the ability to heal on their own, because ligaments receive a poor supply of blood that makes healing very slow. Therefore, treatment is required for the majority of ACL tears. If the patient is older, less physically active, or has risk factors that make surgery too dangerous, then non-surgical methods are more likely to be appropriate. If the tear is severe, the patient is younger and more active, or non-surgical methods have already been unsuccessful, then surgical repair of the torn ligament may be necessary.
Only a doctor can tell you which treatment is right for your ligament tear. Over time, ACL tears can worsen and cause other knee problems, so it is important to see a doctor promptly if you sustain a knee injury.
Top Rated ACL Surgeon in the City of Orange
Dr. Howard Marans, head of OC Orthopedic, is the top rated ACL surgeon in the City of Orange. Dr. Marans has treated patients with knee problems for decades, and has performed many ACL surgeries. Dr. Marans is dedicated to using the most effective and minimally invasive treatments possible, which has improved outcomes for patients. Dr. Marans’ patients appreciate his clinical judgment, bedside manner, and technical skills.
Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your knee health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.
