An ACL tear usually occurs suddenly and is often accompanied by a “popping” sound. The tera will be accompanied by swelling of the joint that can last up to 1 hour. The movement of the knee will also be uncomfortable and joint would feel unstable. Physical examination performed by chiropractor would usually confirm the diagnosis. Magnetic resonance image (MRI) scan can also be used. In case of complete tears, the anterior cruciate ligament cannot repair itself and thus the ligament function is lost.
Meniscus injuries
There are two menisci in each knee. The menisci are the cartilages shaped like a crescent and positioned between thigh bone (femur) and knee bone (tibia). The menisci function as shock absorbers and stabilizers of the knee joint. The meniscus on the inside of the knee is medial meniscus and the outside of the knee is called lateral meniscus. The medial meniscus absorbs some of the load around 25% in the inner compartment and the lateral meniscus absorbs around half of the load in the outer compartment.
Meniscal Tears
The meniscal tear usually occurs when menisci are trapped between the moving bones of the femur and tibia. The menisci cartilage only gets blood supply to the outer third of the outer zone thus limiting ability to heal if torn. Most tears occur in the centre of the meniscus because this is the part of the meniscus that gets trapped between the moving bones. These inner tears and many of the outer tears do not heal.
Symptoms
Pain on the inside of the joint or behind the joint is the most common symptom of a meniscal tear. Meniscal tear can also be accompanied by catching and occasionally locking of the joint. Swelling always means there is something wrong inside the knee and is commonly associated with meniscal tears.
