Anterior Cruciate Ligament
The ACL is located in the front of the knee and acts as mechanism to keep the tibia from sliding upon the femur. A tear in this ligament is normally caused by a twisting injury. The tear is treated either medically or surgically depending on the severity of the tear. Physical therapy plays an important role in the rehabilitation process.
Chondromalacia Patella
A term that is used to define any problems or pain related to the knee cap.
Femur
The bone that extends from the hip to the knee. It is the largest bone in the body.
Meniscal Tear
A tear in one of the two menisci in the knee. Some patients have characterized the injury by saying that it seemed as if their knee “locked up”. A physical rehabiliation program is the best course of action for treating this type of injury, although Arthroscopic Surgery is an option if an MRI reveals significant damage.
Pateallar Subluxation
A knee injury that is caused by sports that involve pivoting, cutting, or twisting. The injury is characterized by a feeling of the knee “giving way” and can be can usually be confirmed by an x-ray. Physical Therapy for the knee and surrounding muscles is the standard treatment. If dislocation of the knee occurs several times than surgery should be considered.
Posterior Cruciate Ligament
The PCL is located in the back of the knee and its purpose is to keep the tibia from sliding backwards. An injury to this area of the knee is usually associated with another knee injury. The hamstring and quadriceps muscle groups play an important part in the rehabilitation process.
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