ACL Tears: Common Knee Injury Affects 200,000 Americans Annually
ACL tears, a common knee injury, often occur with a loud 'popping' sound, followed by pain and swelling. Around 200,000 Americans experience this each year. Treatment typically involves surgery within three months to prevent further damage.
The ACL, located at the front of the knee, stabilizes the joint and prevents excessive forward movement. Tears can happen during sports that involve turning, twisting, or sudden changes in direction, and are also common among 'weekend warriors'. Recovery can take months, with surgery often required. A newer approach, BEAR implant, uses a protein-based material and the patient's blood to restore ACL tears, but more research is needed. Traditional ACL reconstruction surgery uses a ligament from the patient's own body or another source, with recovery taking at least 9 months, including healing and physical therapy.
ACL tears are a significant knee injury, affecting many Americans annually. While advances in sports medicine have improved recovery, further research, like the BEAR implant, is ongoing to enhance treatment options and help athletes return to sports safely.
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