Anterior cruciate ligament injuries in athletes

Abstract

The knee is a complex joint, composed of several structures, including bones, muscles, ligaments, cartilage and the joint capsule. This joint is responsible for supporting the body structure and enabling individuals to walk. Ligaments play an important role in stabilizing this joint, i.e., they limit the degree of movement so that frequent dislocations do not occur. Specifically in the knee, there are five extracapsular ligaments and two intra-articular ligaments. The anterior cruciate ligament, the main target of this study, is an intra-articular ligament that functions to limit the anterior movement of the tibia. When the fibers of this structure are torn, this joint is subject to harmful movements, such as hyperextension and/or subluxations. In the event of a rupture, it is impossible for the ligament to regenerate, since it is poorly vascularized. Surgical procedures are necessary so that the ruptured ligament can be replaced by a neoligament originating from the tendon of some large muscle group. In the pre- and post-operative phases, physiotherapy plays a very important role in studying and defining an individual treatment protocol based on strengthening the affected structures, taking into account the risks and benefits that may be incurred by the patient.