More than 200,000 people experience a torn ACL each year, according to the University of California San Francisco Medical Center’s Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Not only are ACL tears painful, but they also must be repaired properly to prevent future problems. Learning how to prevent ACL tears can help you stay active and avoid costly injury. (more…)
More than 200,000 people experience a torn ACL each year, according to the University of California San Francisco Medical Center’s Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Not only are ACL tears painful, but they also must be repaired properly to prevent future problems. Learning how to prevent ACL tears can help you stay active and avoid costly injury.
What Is an ACL Tear?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four primary ligaments in the knee joint. Ligaments are tissues that connect bone to bone. The ACL connects the back part of the femur (large thigh bone) to the front part of the tibia (shin bone). Thus, it runs diagonally across the knee joint as you view the knee from the side.
The knee ligaments work together to stabilize the joint, preventing the bones from shifting in place. The ACL provides 90 percent of the stability in the knee joint, making it crucial for proper orthopedic functioning. When a blow hits the knee in a certain way, it causes the ACL to stretch or tear. This physical tearing of the ACL ligament must be repaired by an orthopedic surgeon.
Common Causes of ACL Tears
The majority of ACL tears occur among people younger than 25. Sports are the primary cause of injury. Given the anatomy of the ACL, there are characteristic injuries that make it likely to tear. The ACL is most vulnerable to tearing when a person suddenly changes direction or twists. This might occur when a person stops suddenly, lands from a jump, or receives a blow from the side. ACL tears are common injuries among people who play football, soccer or basketball.
It is usually immediately apparent when the ACL is torn. Often, the patient reports hearing the joint pop at the time of injury. Within 24 hours, the knee joint swells and becomes painful, making it uncomfortable to put weight on the joint.
How to Prevent ACL Tears
Fortunately, athletes can prevent ACL tears through proper conditioning. First, it is always important to warm up before working out. Stretching the leg muscles prevents orthopedic injury. Additionally, adding balance and agility drills strengthens and stabilizes the knee. This makes it less likely that jumping or twisting will cause injury. Plyometric exercises such as jumping are good ways to strengthen the knees.
If you’ve suffered an ACL tear, ask your orthopedic specialist how to prevent future injury. Southeast Orthopedic Specialists have experts in sports medicine who can advise you how to avoid harming your knee again.
Orthotics: Helpful or Useless?
Orthotic inserts represented a $400 million industry in the United States in 2014. Some athletes purchase specialized orthotics for specific sports activities while other people wear orthotics in their shoes on a daily basis. The purpose of orthotics is to correct your bone and joint alignment, preventing injury. However, recent research has led to controversy about whether orthotics actually work. (more…)
Treatments for Hip Arthritis
Millions of Americans, many of whom are older adults, develop arthritis at some point in their life. In fact, hip arthritis affects 1 in 4 people over age 85, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Not only is hip arthritis painful, but it also affects your ability to perform everyday activities. Many patients automatically think that they need a hip replacement when they develop osteoarthritis. Although hip surgery is an appropriate and safe treatment for many people, there are other treatment options that should be explored before you make a treatment decision. (more…)
5 Ways Fitness Trackers Can Help You Reach Your Goals
The tech wearables industry is booming, with the global market expected to exceed $19 billion by 2018. Fitness trackers have gained enormous popularity among large swathes of the population for their ease of use and ability to track numerous activities. (more…)
5 Common Reasons Why Your Shoulder Is in Pain
The shoulder has a very versatile range of motion. Although this makes it an effective and well-used joint, it also means that many things can go wrong within the shoulder joint. If you are experiencing shoulder pain for more than a few consecutive days, visit an orthopedic surgeon for assessment and diagnosis. Jacksonville orthopedics experts report that these are the top five common reasons that your shoulder is in pain: (more…)
Why Physical Therapy Is so Important After Surgery
Millions of people are referred to physical therapy each year for the treatment of a range of orthopedic issues. Physical therapists are experts in improving range of motion, everyday functioning and overall quality of life. However, many patients are unsure what physical therapy can do for them or why it is important to attend physical therapy sessions. (more…)
How Beneficial Are Fitness Trackers?
Exercise technology is a booming business, with wearable fitness technology estimated to grow to a $19 billion industry by 2018. Many exercise enthusiasts swear by their fitness trackers while others are simply overwhelmed by the dozens of options. Using a fitness tracker can help you remain informed about your physical activity level and stay motivated following an orthopedic injury. Ask your Southeast Orthopedic Specialists about the possible benefits of fitness trackers for your health. (more…)
Best Type of Running Shoe for Your Feet
Running leads to significant cardiovascular benefits, reducing your risk of chronic disease and even increasing your overall lifespan. One of the best aspects of running is that nearly anyone can do it. All that is needed is a good pair of running shoes. Choosing the right running shoes can make the difference between a pastime that is fun and healthy and one that is painful or even dangerous. Investing in appropriate running shoes now may prevent a visit to an orthopedic surgeon later on. (more…)
What Is Orthopedic Trauma?
Orthopedic medicine refers to treatment of the musculoskeletal system, meaning any condition affecting the bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and associated structures. Within the field of orthopedic medicine, some physicians choose to specialize in orthopedic trauma. Orthopedic trauma experts are equipped to handle a range of injuries affecting the musculoskeletal system. (more…)
Sports and Concussions
Recent news headlines and the release of the Hollywood film “Concussion” have many people worried about the effects of sports-related head injuries on health. Understanding the scope of the problem and potential consequences of concussions can help you make educated decisions about participation in sports. (more…)
