How to Evaluate an ACL Injury

Basic steps on how to evaluate an injury. In this presentation we are focusing on how to evaluate a possible ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury. The ACL is one of the four main ligaments that stabilize the knee joint and prevents anterior translation and medial rotation of the tibia in relation to the femur. ACL tears are very common injuries that occur in sports. Studies have shown that female soccer athletes are the most susceptible to ACL injuries. 

-What happened?
-Where is your pain?
-Did your hear a pop?
-Was there immediate pain?

-Is there swelling?
-Is there redness?
-Is there point tenderness?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZ7tbx8TbvY

Based on the full examination, if the the athlete has positive signs and symptoms which also include positive signs from special tests the athlete must be referred to an orthopaedic surgical doctor for further examination. For the time being, the athlete should RICE (rest, ice, compress, and elevate).