So many parents are extremely proud when their children get into sports. But that feeling of accomplishment can easily be replaced by a sense of dread once they see their children get injured while out on the playing field.

If you have a kid who likes to play a lot of sports, then you need to become familiar with the most common injuries that children get while playing. One such thing is the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. The ACL injury is a serious injury because it involves the ligament that gives the knee its stability, and will need to be looked at by a San Diego orthopedic doctor.

How an ACL Injury Happens

Most ACL injuries happen in sports that involve sudden movements and abrupt changes in direction. These include basketball, soccer, football, tennis, and volleyball. Once a child jumps and makes a hard landing, he or she may land stiff-legged and off-balance. If the weight is not evenly distributed on both legs and the quadricep muscles are not stable enough, the sudden movement will put a lot of pressure on the knee joint and will cause the ACL to tear up.

How to Prevent an ACL Injury

ACL injuries account for more than 50% of all knee-related injuries. Treatment usually requires surgery and long-term rehabilitation. To prevent an ACL injury, the parents and coach need to work together to ensure that the young athlete does not skip warm-ups and cool downs, drinks enough liquid, and uses the proper equipment.

Some children will insist on playing even when already injured, which is why you should instinctively know when your child is in pain, even if he or she is not telling you. Simple sports injuries that have been left untreated for too long may turn into major complications and lifelong problems.

If you suspect that your child has an ACL injury, then please visit us right away for immediate assistance.

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