Have you ever felt a sharp, sudden pain in your knee during a sports activity or even while simply turning or twisting?
It’s the kind of pain that stops you in your tracks, making it difficult to move or put weight on your leg. This is a common symptom of an ACL injury, which can vary in severity from a mild strain to a complete tear.
In this blog, we will break down the different grades of ACL injuries (Grade I, II, and III), their symptoms, and how each type is treated.
Whether you are dealing with a mild sprain or a more severe tear, understanding these injuries and treatment options will help you manage pain and begin the healing process effectively.
What is an ACL Injury?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a vital ligament in the knee that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). It helps in stabilising the knee and prevents the tibia from sliding forward too much.
ACL injuries are common in sports, especially those that require sudden stops, changes in direction, or jumping, such as soccer, basketball, and skiing.
An ACL injury can range from a mild sprain (Grade I) to a complete tear (Grade III). The severity of the injury helps the orthopedic specialist determine the treatment approach and recovery time.
What is the Difference Between Grade 1, 2, and 3 ACL Injuries?
Let’s read about the different grades of ACL injuries
Grade I ACL Injury
A Grade I ACL injury means the ligament is stretched but not torn. This is the mildest form of ACL damage.
The knee remains stable. Symptoms are usually minimal. Patients may have slight pain, swelling, or stiffness. However, the discomfort is usually mild and manageable.
Most people can continue their normal daily activities. There may be some discomfort during movement, but it doesn’t stop functioning.
Surgery is not usually needed. Treatment includes rest, physiotherapy, and sometimes a knee brace.
Grade II ACL Injury
A Grade II ACL injury means the ligament is partially torn. Some fibers are damaged, but others remain intact. This is a moderate injury.
The knee may feel unstable, especially during quick movements. Symptoms include moderate pain, swelling, and weakness.
Many feel their knee is giving way during pivoting or turning activities. Sports and sudden movements may become difficult. Treatment depends on the severity. Some cases heal with therapy and support, while others may require surgery.
Grade III ACL Injury
A Grade III ACL injury is a complete tear or rupture. It is the most severe form of ACL injury. The knee becomes highly unstable.
Patients often find it hard to walk or stand properly. Symptoms include severe pain, major swelling, and limited movement.
Most daily activities are severely affected. Because the ligament is fully torn, surgery is almost always needed. After surgery, rehabilitation is essential for full recovery.
How is a Grade 2 ACL Injury Treated?
A Grade II ACL injury involves a partial tear of the ligament. It can often be treated without surgery, but depending on the condition, surgery becomes important. The treatment includes:
- Rest and Ice: Resting the knee and applying ice can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening the muscles around the knee is crucial to stabilise the joint. A physical therapy regimen helps improve range of motion and muscle strength.
- Bracing: Wearing a knee brace helps to provide stability during daily activities, especially if the injury causes some knee instability.
Surgery is recommended based on the following considerations-
- If the injury does not improve with non-surgical treatments.
- If you are a highly active individual and want to prevent further injury.
- Pain level is seriously affecting your everyday life.
- If other structures of the knee, including the meniscus or other ligaments are also injured.
How is a Grade 3 ACL injury treated?
A Grade III ACL injury requires surgery for full recovery. In this case, the ligament gets completely torn. The ligament cannot heal on its own, and knee stability is significantly compromised. The treatment usually involves:
Surgical Reconstruction
Surgical reconstruction is the standard treatment for a complete ACL tear (Grade III injury). In this, the ligament is completely ruptured and cannot heal on its own.
The process of ACL reconstruction as done by an orthopedic surgeon typically involves the following steps:
Preparation for Surgery
Before surgery, the patient will undergo several tests to determine the severity of the tear and plan the best course of action. The doctor will discuss whether an autograft (using the patient’s own tissue) or an allograft (using tissue from a donor) is the best option.
Anesthesia
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Sometimes, regional anesthesia may be used to numb the area while keeping the patient awake but comfortable.
Harvesting the Graft
The new tissue will be used to replace the torn ACL. If an allograft is used, the tissue is sourced from a donor, which eliminates the need for harvesting tissue from the patient’s body.
Incision and Preparation
The surgeon will make small incisions around the knee to access the joint. Arthroscopic surgery is used, which involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) through one incision to visualise the knee’s internal structures. Small instruments are used through other incisions to perform the surgery.
Closure and Recovery
Once the graft is securely in place, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures or staples. The knee is then bandaged, and a knee brace is often used to provide additional support during the initial stages of recovery.
Rehabilitation
After surgery, rehabilitation is crucial. Physical therapy is essential to strengthen the knee, improve mobility, and ensure a safe return to normal activities. Recovery can take several months, depending on the individual.
Can you walk on a Grade ACL tear?
With a Grade III ACL tear, walking is severely painful and unstable due to the knee’s inability to support weight properly.
However, some people can still walk with the help of crutches or a knee brace to provide additional support. It’s important not to put too much weight on the knee before receiving proper medical evaluation and treatment.
How long does it take for a Grade 3 ACL Tear to heal?
Recovery from a Grade III ACL tear typically takes around 6-12 months. The healing process depends on several factors, including age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.
Early stages of recovery will focus on reducing swelling and pain, while later stages involve strength training and functional exercises.
Get yourself treated by an Expert Orthopedic Surgeon
When dealing with an ACL injury or any orthopedic concern, it’s crucial to seek treatment from a skilled and experienced professional. Dr. Prashant Arya, an expert in orthopedic and sports injury treatment, has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating ACL injuries.
Here’s what you can expect with Dr. Arya’s care:
- Comprehensive Treatment: His method takes a well-rounded approach to treating ACL injuries. This is used to address both the injury and the long-term health of the knee joint.
- Personalised Care: Every patient receives a treatment plan according to their individual factors, like age, activity levels, and recovery goals.
- Expert Guidance: With Dr. Arya’s experience, you can trust that you’re in capable hands, ensuring your path to recovery is as efficient and effective as possible.
With knowledge comes the power to make right decision
Understanding the different grades of ACL injuries and how each is treated is crucial for effective recovery. Whether you have a mild sprain or a complete tear, early treatment significantly improves your chances of recovery.
If you are dealing with an ACL injury, it’s important to consult an expert who can guide you through the best treatment options for your specific condition.
Start your recovery journey
If you are experiencing excruciating knee pain, consult with Dr. Prashant Arya, an experienced orthopaedic surgeon in Jamshedpur, and start your recovery journey today.
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