Anterior cruciate ligament injury

Patient education is crucial in achieving the best outcome for each patient. This should begin at the time of diagnosis and continue throughout the course of treatment. Although referral to an experienced sports orthopedist is appropriate for any patient considering surgery, it is important to tell the patient that there is no need to decide on surgery immediately. Conversely, high-level athletes and others who may be on a strict time schedule should be referred as soon as possible, so that if they decide on surgery, appropriate scheduling can be arranged. Provocative maneuvers, such as deep bending, twisting, and impact activity, are to be avoided. Proper instruction in the safe use of crutches, a cane, and braces are provided to each patient. As symptoms allow, gentle active range-of-motion exercises may be instituted. Similarly, pain-free exercise biking, pool running, swimming, and other low-impact exercises can be performed to maintain fitness. These activities also help restore range of motion, improve local muscle tone, and dissipate the hemarthrosis. Further instructions depend on the exact course of action chosen by the patient.