Affecting everyone from children to professional athletes to on-the-go seniors, ACL and MCL tears can cause extreme knee pain and instability. In turn, individuals suffering from these injuries often find it difficult or impossible to bear weight and walk normally, signaling a clear need for prompt and professional treatment. Read on for more information on two common FAQs: What are the symptoms of a torn MCL or ACL, and how are these conditions addressed?
What Are the Symptoms of a Torn MCL or ACL?
In the course of playing sports such as football, soccer and basketball, ACL and MCL injuries frequently happen independently, and sometimes in combination with each other. Injuries to either ligament will typically result in the following:
– Inflammation
– Swelling
– Severe pain
– Loss of knee functionality
– Bruising around the knee
One way to differentiate ACL and MCL tears is that with ACL tears, a popping sound/feeling typically occurs at the time of the injury, whereas this recognizable symptom does not usually accompany an MCL tear. However, it is impossible to know for sure the type and extent of the knee injury you have sustained without seeing an expert for diagnosis.
Depending on the variety, grade (severity level) and other details of your unique injury, the best course of treatment will vary. Commonly prescribed modalities for ACL & MCL tears and sprains include taking time off from activities, wearing a knee brace, performing physical therapy exercises and possibly reconstruction surgery.
Find the Right Treatment for Your Knee Injury
If you are curious to know what are the symptoms of a torn MCL or ACL, it may be time to visit an expert such as Dr. Stephen Soffer. As an orthopedic surgeon fellowship-trained by Dr. James Andrews, Dr. Soffer offers the latest diagnostic technologies and treatments at his office in Reading, PA. He is proud to be a leader in arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive solution that offers excellent results for many patients facing knee injuries.
For compassionate and swift knee care you can count on, call Dr. Soffer’s office at 610-375-4949.
