The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus are among the most common injuries for young people and athletes. The ACL plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the knee joint, especially during sports and twisting movements of the knee. For example, in soccer, the rotational movement of the foot is one of the most common causes of ACL injuries.
When an ACL sprain or tear is suspected, it is essential to understand the appropriate steps for management and treatment. Immediate care usually includes the R.I.C.E. principle—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—to reduce swelling and pain. Following this, the doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medications to control inflammation and alleviate discomfort. If an ACL tear is suspected, the doctor will recommend a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to determine the extent of the tear and discuss further treatment options with the patient.
Meniscus tears are also common and have a similar injury pattern to ACL injuries. Meniscus injuries typically present as varying degrees of tears. The doctor will arrange for an MRI scan to identify the location and extent of the tear and decide whether surgery is necessary based on the results.
