ACL Injuries: Q&A with Dr. Catherine Logan

ACL Injury Q&A with Dr. Catherine Logan

What is the ACL, and why is it important?

The ACL is an incredibly important ligment in the knee; it provides stability with cutting and pivoting during sports such as soccer, lacrosse and basketball.

What causes ACL injuries?

ACL injury can lead to instability and swelling of the knee, basically a feeling of the knee "giving out." Several things can lead to an ACL injury, including gender, anatomic variations, landing/jumping techniques to name a few.

ACL Injuries

The most common mechanism of injury when an ACL is torn is a non-contact injury where the knee falls inward (valgus) while the foot is planted.

What is ACL Reconstruction?

ACL Reconstruction is a procedure in which a new ACL (graft) is placed in the knee. There are multiple graft options:

Quadriceps
Patella Tendon (BTB)
Hamstrings
Allograft

Many ACL restoration techniques are done using minimally invasive surgical procedures. This can reduce healing time and prevent excess bleeding.

***

If you’re living with unstable, swollen, or painful joints, don’t accept these changes as an inevitable part of growing older. Book a consultation with Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics by calling the office or using the online booking tool today.

Author

Dr. Catherine Logan, MD, MBA Catherine Logan, MD, MBA, MSPT, is a sports medicine orthopaedic surgeon specializing in complex knee and shoulder surgery at Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics (COSMO) in Denver, Colorado. As a former physical therapist & trainer, Dr. Logan provides a distinct expertise in sports injury, prevention, and surgical management.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Grit's Impact on ACL Recovery

Overall, grit plays a critical role in ACL recovery by influencing an individual's mindset, behaviors, and outcomes throughout the rehabilitation process.

How Should I Recovery from Workouts with Dr. Catherine Logan? (Nutrition)

Dr. Catherine Logan chats Recovery nutrition plays a crucial role in replenishing energy stores, repairing muscle tissue, and supporting overall recovery after a workout

The Impact of Grit on Athlete's ACL Recovery

Researchers recently investigated grit in relation to outcomes following ACL surgery. Grit is the disposition to strive for long-term goals despite setbacks and challenges.

Regenerative Medicine at Colorado Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics

Combined PRP and Gel (HA) Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis: Is There Benefit to Inject Both?

Symptomatic patients with knee OA who were injected with a combination of PRP and HA demonstrated greater improvement in pain and function compared with patients who received HA injections only,

Supplements for Recovery: Sports Nutrition for Athletes & Patients

Supplements can enhance repair, but only when the foundation (energy, macros, micros, hydration, and timing) is covered. Supplements can be categorized based on how they support (not block) inflammation as well as their role in muscle, tendon, and bone.