An ACL tear can feel like a life-changing injury, disrupting activities and altering daily routines. Whether you tore your ACL during a basketball game or while hiking, the pain is real. You might be wondering, “Who can help me recover from this injury?” One common question is whether a sports medicine physician is the right professional to treat an ACL tear.
If this question resonates with you, you are not alone. Many patients seeking treatment for ACL injuries often feel uncertain about their best options for care. This article will provide clear answers and guidance, so you can make informed decisions about your treatment.
Can a Sports Medicine Physician Treat My ACL Tear?
The short answer is yes, a sports medicine physician can treat your ACL tear. Sports medicine physicians diagnose and treat injuries related to physical activity. These experts have the training needed to address everything from mild sprains to severe ligament tears.
ACL injuries are tears to the anterior cruciate ligament. They typically happen during activities involving sudden stops or twists, like soccer, basketball, or skiing.
A sports medicine physician can determine the severity of your tear, whether it is partial or complete. They will then recommend a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Not all ACL injuries require surgery. Sports medicine physicians can handle conservative treatments. Their expertise makes them a valuable first point of contact when dealing with ACL injuries. In the case of Bowen Hefley Orthopedics’ Dr. William Hefley, he is also a board-certified orthopedic surgeon.
How a Sports Medicine Physician Treats an ACL Tear
When you visit a sports medicine physician for an ACL tear, you can expect a thorough process. This includes a detailed evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment.
Here is a closer look at how these specialists handle ACL injuries.
1. Comprehensive Evaluation and Diagnosis
The first step a sports medicine physician takes is assessing your injury.
They will ask about how the injury occurred and your physical activity level. They will also inquire about any symptoms you are experiencing.
Common symptoms of ACL tears include:
- A popping sound at the time of the injury
- Pain and swelling in the knee
- Limited range of motion
- A feeling of instability in the knee
To confirm the diagnosis, the physician may perform a physical exam of your knee. This often includes specific tests to check the stability of the ACL.
For more severe injuries or to get a clearer picture, imaging tests like an MRI may also be ordered.
2. Determining the Severity of the Tear
ACL injuries fall into different categories based on severity:
- Grade 1: A mild sprain or overstretching of the ligament without tearing.
- Grade 2: A partial tear of the ligament.
- Grade 3: A complete tear of the ligament.
Based on the severity, the physician will collaborate with you to determine the best course of action. Treatment plans may differ between grades, so an accurate diagnosis is essential.
3. Non-Surgical Treatment Options
For partial tears or less severe injuries, sports medicine physicians often recommend non-surgical options first.
These options are designed to help you regain knee function and may include:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in strengthening the muscles that support your knee.
By improving muscle strength and flexibility, physical therapy can enhance stability. It can also help prevent future injuries.
Bracing
A knee brace may be recommended to protect the ligament as it heals. Braces offer stability and reduce the risk of worsening the injury during recovery.
Rest and Ice
Resting your knee and applying ice packs can reduce swelling and pain. Limiting physical activity ensures that your ligament has time to heal properly.
4. Surgical Intervention
Suppose your ACL tear is a complete rupture or you are experiencing frequent instability in your knee. In these cases, surgery may be necessary.
Sports medicine physicians typically do not perform surgeries themselves. However, Dr. Hefley is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. As the top orthopedic doctor near you, he is highly qualified to perform surgery.
Surgical treatment typically involves ACL reconstruction. During this procedure, the surgeon replaces the torn ligament with a graft. This graft either comes from your own body or from a donor.
Recovery after surgery involves physical therapy to regain strength, mobility, and function.
Being connected with a sports medicine physician ensures that your recovery is seamless. They will stay involved in your post-surgical care as part of a joint effort with your entire healthcare team.
5. Rehab and Long-Term Support
Recovering from an ACL tear takes time and dedication. Your sports medicine physician will support you through each step.
They can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. They can also help you safely return to your usual activities.
One of the physician’s primary goals is also to educate you about injury prevention.
They might suggest changes to your exercise technique, footwear, or training program. This way, they help reduce your risk of recurring injuries.
The Best Sports Medicine Physician in Little Rock, AR
An ACL injury can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. A sports medicine physician is highly qualified to guide you throughout, from diagnosis to recovery. Are you looking for the best sports medicine physician near you? Look no further than Bowen Hefley Orthopedics, the top orthopedic clinic near you. Our very own board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. William Hefley, specializes in treating knee injuries like ACL tears.
Call us today at (800) 336-2412 or submit an appointment request form to start your path to recovery. We can help, whether you need individualized treatment options or advanced surgical care. Our team will provide the expert attention you deserve.
The best sports medicine doctor in Little Rock, AR, looks forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16576-acl-tear
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acl-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20350738
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acl-injury/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350744
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