First Aid:

An ACL injury should be treated with:

• A splint
• Elevating the joint (above the level of the heart)
• Ice
• Pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen)

Do not play again until you have been evaluated and treated.

Some people may need crutches to walk until the swelling and pain have improved. Physical therapy may help you regain joint motion and leg strength.

If you still have instability after your leg strength and knee motion have returned, your doctor may recommend a reconstruction of the ACL. The old ligament cannot be fixed, so a new one needs to be constructed. Common grafts used for reconstruction include:

• A piece of the tendon that connects the kneecap to the tibia (patellar tendon)
• Hamstring tendon
• Human cadaver graft

Do Not:

• In the case of a serious knee injury, do not try to move the joint. Use a splint to keep the knee straight until a trained medical professional has evaluated it.
• Do not return to play until you have been evaluated and treated.

Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:

Anyone with a serious knee injury should seek medical attention for x-rays and evaluation.

If the foot is cool and blue after a knee injury, the knee may be dislocated and blood vessels to the foot may be injured. This is a true medical emergency that requires immediate professional help.