ACL Injury Can Increase Risk of Arthritis in Young Athletes

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most commonly injured knee ligament. ACL injuries often occur during sports activities, but they can even happen during an awkward fall. To make matters worse, many young athletes who undergo ACL reconstruction can develop knee arthritis, which puts them at risk for an early knee replacement and a less-active lifestyle.

ACL Injury Is Steadily Increasing

April is National Youth Sports Safety Month. The incidence of ACL injury is on the rise as teen sports participation increases. A study published by UCLA Health found that girls are “more than twice as likely” to experience an ACL injury than boys.

Although the ACL is only three centimeters long, it works with surrounding muscles to keep the knee in place. The most common way young athletes tear an ACL is by moving in one direction and then suddenly changing direction. This twisting, pivoting motion often occurs within the following sports:

• Football
• Soccer
• Tennis
• Volleyball
• Skiing

Building Knee Strength Can Prevent Arthritis

An ACL tear can accelerate arthritis development because the injury damages the knee’s cartilage and other tissues. However, patients with ACL injuries can delay or even prevent knee arthritis with sufficient therapy.

Brooke Patterson, PhD, of La Trobe University in Melbourne, Australia is a former athlete who experienced an ACL injury. During her research, Dr. Patterson found that most patients stop going to physical therapy too soon — about six months to one year after knee surgery.

Dr. Patterson designed a program to build knee strength through jumping, heavy leg weights and agility training. Utilizing exercises that support previous injuries and strengthen joints, the knee can continue to function well without the onset of arthritis.

“Exercise therapy and education is how we treat older people with arthritis, but researchers had never asked whether similar interventions could work for young people,” Patterson said. “Almost every person who completed our new program said they had less pain and better quality of life” (Medical Xpress).

Find an Orthopedist Near You to Manage Joint Pain

Is chronic knee pain affecting your quality of life? Do not ignore your symptoms, or your condition may worsen.

An orthopedist can create a customized treatment plan to alleviate joint discomfort. In many cases, surgery is not necessary, but your orthopedist may recommend a surgical procedure if you would benefit from it. You can discuss all your options at your appointment.

Click here and enter your zip code to access our nationwide network of orthopedic specialists.