How do you Injure your ACL or PCL?
What are the ACL and PCL?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are ligaments that crisscross each other in the knee joint in to prevent the femur (thigh bone) from sliding off of the tibia (shin bone). The ACL prevents the femur from sliding off the back of the tibia, while the PCL prevents it from sliding off the front. When these ligaments are torn or injured, external support in the form of a brace is necessary to support the joint and protect the ligaments.
How do you injure an ACL or PCL?
The ACL is the most common ligament to sprain or tear in the knee. Athletes in high intensity sports frequently sprain or tear this ligament due to the sharp and sudden movements required by the sport, but it can also be injured from a fall or incorrect movement during daily activities. Conversely, the PCL is one of the least common ligament injuries of the knee and is usually only seen after a car accident where the shin hits the dashboard.
What are the symptoms of an ACL or PCL injury?
People who injure their ACL often hear or feel a “pop” in their knee, followed by severe pain, rapid swelling, and the inability to stand or bear weight on the knee joint. A PCL injury may have only mild to moderate symptoms, including pain that causes a limp or difficulty bearing weight on the injured knee. Rapid swelling is common in a PCL injury.
What is the best knee brace for an ACL or PCL injury?
The best knee brace for a knee ligament injury is one that addresses the initial swelling, provides support and stability, and is comfortable to wear as much as you need it. Range-of-motion knee braces utilize special hinges to control range of motion of the knee joint while the ligaments are healing. All of BioSkin’s knee braces provide medical-grade compression to enhance recovery and decrease pain and swelling.
