Potential Diagnosis: ACL Tear

Symptoms

• A loud "pop" sensation in the knee followed by immediate pain and instability.

• Rapid swelling within a few hours after the injury.

• Inability to fully straighten the knee or bear weight.

Causes

An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tear often occurs in track and field athletes, especially during high-speed movements involving cutting, jumping, or rapid deceleration. It can happen during the takeoff in jumps or sudden stops during sprints.

• Mechanism: Twisting or pivoting with a planted foot can stress the ACL, causing it to tear.

• Gender: Female athletes have a higher risk due to differences in anatomy and hormonal fluctuations.

Where It Occurs for Track & Field Athletes

• Common in long jump, high jump, and hurdlers due to the rotational forces on the knee.

• Sprinters may also experience ACL tears during abrupt direction changes or faulty landing mechanics.

Rehabilitation Phases

Phase 1 (0-2 weeks)

• Goal: Control swelling, protect the knee, and restore basic movement.

• Rest and Ice: Minimize activity to prevent further damage.

• Range of motion: Gradually work to regain full extension and flexion using heel slides.

• Quad activation: Begin with isometric quad exercises to prevent muscle atrophy.

Phase 2 (2-6 weeks)

• Goal: Improve range of motion, strength, and functional movement.

• Partial weight-bearing exercises: Slowly introduce weight-bearing activities like assisted squats.

• Strength training: Begin quad strengthening exercises like mini squats and leg presses.

• Balance exercises: Work on stability with single-leg balancing exercises to rebuild proprioception.

Phase 3 (6-12 weeks)

• Goal: Strengthen knee and prepare for return to sport.

• Dynamic strengthening: Incorporate lunges, step-ups, and resistance band exercises.

• Plyometrics: Gradual introduction of jumping exercises.

• Running drills: Begin running on a treadmill or track, starting at slow speeds and progressing to full sprints.

Prevention Tips

1. Neuromuscular Training: Focus on exercises that improve knee stability and coordination during jumping or cutting.

2. Strengthen the Core and Glutes: Weak hips or core can cause poor knee alignment, increasing ACL injury risk.

Exercise Videos