As football season ramps up, so does the risk of sports-related injuries, particularly ACL tears. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) plays a vital role in stabilizing the knee during quick changes in direction, sudden stops, or pivots. Unfortunately, these are all common movements in football.
At Seattle Rehab Specialists, we see a rise in ACL injuries every fall, especially among student athletes. Whether your child is playing in a local youth league or competing at the high school level, understanding how ACL injuries happen and how to prevent them can make all the difference.
What Is an ACL Injury?
The ACL is one of four major ligaments that support the knee joint. It connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) and keeps the knee stable during movement.
An ACL injury can range from a mild sprain to a complete tear. These injuries often occur during non-contact movements. Like quickly changing direction, landing awkwardly from a jump, or stopping suddenly. In football, however, direct contact can also cause significant strain or tearing of the ligament.
Common Signs of an ACL Tear
If an athlete experiences an ACL injury, they may notice:
- A popping sound at the moment of injury
- Immediate swelling or instability in the knee
- Difficulty bearing weight or fully straightening the leg
- Ongoing pain or a feeling that the knee might “give out”
If these symptoms occur, it’s important to stop activity right away and schedule a professional evaluation.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from an ACL injury depends on the severity. Some partial tears may heal with rest and structured physical therapy, while full tears often require surgery followed by a comprehensive rehabilitation program.
At Seattle Rehab Specialists, our physical therapists design individualized rehab plans that focus on:
- Restoring range of motion
- Rebuilding strength and balance
- Teaching proper movement mechanics
- Gradually returning to sport safely
Our goal is to help athletes return stronger, more confident, and better prepared to prevent future injuries.
Preventing ACL Injuries
While not all injuries can be avoided, prevention programs can significantly reduce risk. Families and coaches should encourage athletes to:
- Warm up properly before practices and games
- Incorporate strength and stability exercises focused on hips, hamstrings, and quadriceps
- Practice safe jumping and landing techniques
- Prioritize flexibility and balance training
- Avoid overtraining and allow proper recovery time
Our clinic offers sports-specific injury prevention programs, including customized strength and movement assessments for all types of athletes.
Supporting Your Athlete
An ACL injury can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Family encouragement, consistent communication with care providers, and following a well-structured rehab plan can make a huge difference in recovery outcomes.
If your child or anyone you know, experiences knee pain or instability during football season, we are here to help. Schedule an evaluation with our sports rehab team to discuss prevention, early intervention, and individualized recovery strategies.