The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a crucial stabilizing ligament in the knee joint. An ACL tear is a prevalent injury often due to intense physical activities, abrupt movements, and repeated muscle strain. High-impact sports like basketball, volleyball, and tug-of-war that involve sudden stops and pivots can increase the risk of ACL injuries.
Typically, patients with ACL tears experience a sudden popping sound, followed by a sharp, shooting pain in the knee joint. The treatment of ACL tears is determined based on the severity of the injury. Surgical intervention is necessary for severe cases, while non-surgical treatments are suitable for mild to moderate cases.
This article intends to explore non-surgical treatment modalities for ACL tears. These modalities include physical therapy, bracing, and rest. Physical therapy is an effective option that focuses on strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee joint. Bracing and rest can also aid in reducing inflammation and providing support to the knee joint. These non-surgical treatments can facilitate full recovery, restoring the patient’s mobility and quality of life.
Exploring Non-Invasive Alternatives: Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Various Conditions
- Rest and ice therapy
A vast majority of body parts often tend to repair on their own. However, it requires proper rest and support to heal. Putting a pillow below your knee will help elevate the knee joint and enhance blood circulation. Meanwhile, using ice packs can help reduce the level of inflammation. Put an ice pack on the affected area for 10-15 minutes thrice a day for optimum results.
- Physical therapy
After the effects of inflammation have subsided, the patient is suggested to go for physical therapy. Starting with light exercises can help reduce pain and stress. Diving right into vigorous exercises is not advisable as it might aggregate the tear. Visiting a physiotherapist to do physical therapy is always advisable.
- Use of knee braces
Knee braces help provide additional support to the knee joint. It restricts the knee’s extensive movement, allowing it to heal properly. Patients are generally advised to wear knee braces throughout the day, especially while moving in and around the house.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
For ACL tears, platelet-rich plasma therapy is an accepted mode of treatment. During this procedure, a hypertonic dextrose solution is administered. It helps promote growth in the knee joint, thereby allowing faster repair. During this process, the solution is injected directly into the site of action.
- Stem cell therapy
Stem cell therapy is a popular alternative to surgery in ACL repairs. A solution consisting of the stem cells is directly incorporated on the site of action. Stem cells help differentiate, thereby creating the anterior cruciate ligament to repair the year. It helps in faster recovery.
- Prolotherapy
The long-term effects of prolotherapy are what we know, thanks to the success rate, which is relatively high with this procedure. The site of the tear is flushed with a dosage of dextrose that promotes extensive cell growth and repair. It is a common treatment modality for ACL tears without surgery.
- Chiropractic care
Chiropractic care depends greatly on the intensity of the ACL tear. In minor cases, this can help greatly restore knee function. The doctor does some basic adjustments to the knee to bring it back to its original position and release tension.
Effectiveness and Safety of Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Surgical treatment planning is the last resource for ACL treatment due to the safety concerns and side effects associated with it. The chances of injection during surgery are extremely high. Moreover, surgeries must be avoided in cases of immunocompromised patients, such as patients with diabetes, cancer, high blood pressure, etc.
In case the patient is on blood thinners, several complications may arise during surgery. Moreover, the healing time post-surgery depends on the immunity and healing capacity of the patient. On the other hand, non-surgical treatment options are less invasive. It directly reduces the healing time required in cases of surgeries. Moreover, the chances of infection are also reduced drastically. The non-surgical treatment modalities are also cost-effective and less time-consuming.
Considering the Options: Key Factors that Influence Treatment Decisions
Before determining the treatment plan, there are several factors that a doctor must consider. Here are some of the factors affecting the treatment choice for an ACL year-
- The severity of ACL Tear
Depending on the severity of the ACL tear, the treatment modality differs drastically. Doctors often aim to go hierarchy-wise when it comes to treatment planning.
- Bed rest, ice packs, and basic physical therapy are recommended for minor tears and sprains. Knee braces are suggested for additional support.
- Medications are the second line of treatment. A combination of analgesics, NSAIDs, and antibiotics is recommended.
- The third course of action is going for non-surgical treatment planning.
- The last line of action is surgical intervention.
- Age and activity level
Depending on the age, the metabolism and healing capacity of the individual reduces drastically. Additionally, the doctors have to consider other medical conditions that one might have before determining the right course of action.
- Personal preferences
Before proceeding with any procedure, the doctor must have informed consent from the patient. After informing the patient of the selected treatment modality, the patient may refuse treatment for various reasons. The doctor must change the treatment modality.
- Financial conditions
As per the financial conditions of the patient, the doctor might need to alter or change the existing treatment plan. It is essential to consider a course of action that is not burdening the patient.
Maximizing Results: The Benefits and Considerations of Combining Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Combination therapy is often recommended for the best results. They help the patient heal faster and get back on their feet. Here are some of the common combinations used for optimum outputs-
- Medications, physical therapy, and ice packs
- Physical therapy and platelet-rich plasma therapy
- Stem cell therapy and prolotherapy
Conclusion
Comparing treatment options between surgical and non-surgical treatment modalities offers the patients an understanding of the best option. As a doctor, one must inform the patient of all the viable options and help them choose the best course of action. It is necessary to remember the patient’s age, medical conditions, healing capacity, ongoing medications, and financial conditions. Non-surgical treatment options have a lesser chance of infection, are less invasive, and are budget-friendly.