Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury Treatment in Montgomery, AL
A sprained or torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most common knee injuries — and it can happen to anyone. While athletes are more likely to experience ACL injuries due to quick direction changes, sudden stops, and jumping, these injuries can also occur during everyday activities.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of an ACL injury in the Montgomery, AL area, the orthopedic specialists at Southern Orthopaedic Surgeons are here to help you get back to doing what you love.
Understanding Your ACL
The knee is supported by several important ligaments that work together to provide stability. The cruciate ligaments, located inside the knee joint, control the forward and backward motion of the knee.
The ACL runs diagonally through the center of the knee, in front of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). Its main role is to stabilize the knee joint — especially by preventing the tibia (shinbone) from sliding forward in front of the femur (thighbone).
Types of ACL Injuries
ACL injuries are classified by severity:
- Grade 1 Sprain – The ligament is stretched but remains stable.
- Grade 2 Sprain (Partial Tear) – The ligament is loosened due to damage, sometimes referred to as a partial tear.
- Grade 3 Sprain (Complete Tear) – The ligament is fully torn into two pieces, causing significant instability.
While mild sprains can occur, complete ACL tears are the most common injury treated by our knee specialists in the River Region.
Causes and Risk Factors
ACL injuries often occur during activities that involve:
- Sudden changes in direction (cutting)
- Abrupt stops
- Improper landing from a jump
- Direct collisions
- Slowing down from a run
Female athletes are statistically more prone to ACL injuries, possibly due to differences in muscle strength, joint alignment, and ligament flexibility.
Symptoms of an ACL Injury
People with an ACL injury often report hearing or feeling a “pop” in the knee, followed by:
- Pain and swelling
- A sensation that the knee may “give out”
- Loss of range of motion
- Tenderness around the joint
- Difficulty bearing weight
Mild ACL injuries (Grade 1) may improve with rest, but more serious partial or complete tears often require medical intervention. Returning to activity too soon without treatment can worsen the injury and lead to long-term knee instability.
ACL Injury Treatment in Montgomery, AL
Prompt evaluation by an orthopedic specialist is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. At Southern Orthopaedic Surgeons, our experienced team will:
- Perform a detailed physical exam and imaging (if needed)
- Recommend a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of the injury and your activity goals
- Provide non-surgical treatments like bracing and physical therapy when appropriate
- Offer advanced surgical options, including ACL reconstruction, for complete tears or instability
Whether you’re an athlete, an active adult, or someone who experienced a sudden knee injury, our goal is to help you recover fully and return to your normal activities safely.
Schedule an Appointment
If you suspect an ACL injury, don’t wait. Early treatment can help you recover faster and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Call Southern Orthopaedic Surgeons today at (334) 613-9000 or request an appointment online to meet with one of our orthopedic specialists in Montgomery, Prattville, Wetumpka, or Tallassee.