Tweaked Knee or Bum Shoulder?

The human knee has four primary ligaments: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL). Of all knee injuries, ACL accounts for 50+%. Within this injury subtype, there are three classifications which are graded 1-3. A grade 1 ligamentous injury or “sprain” is defined as structural damage only on a microscopic level, with slight local tenderness and without joint instability. Grade 2 is partial tear of the ligament, visible swelling, and noticeable tenderness, but without joint instability (or with mild instability). Finally, a grade 3 is defined as a complete rupture of the ligament with significant swelling and with instability of the joint. In terms of required intervention, grade 1 and 2 can typically be resolved with physical therapy and activity modification. A full rupture of the ACL most often (75% of time) requires surgery and 8-12 months of rehab.

As a board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) Physical Therapist, I focus on treating the body’s joints. I am especially proficient with knee and shoulder ailments. To get the most out of rehab following surgeries, patients are often challenged to the edge of their ability to ensure minimization of re-injury risk. Unfortunately, patients often quit therapy during the later stages of rehab as the day-to-day activities are no longer limited. It is critical, however, to complete this high-end rehabilitation to allow full return to high level functional activities like skiing/snowboarding, trail running, tennis, and pickleball. Whether you are suffering from a shoulder ailment, a torn ACL, or other injuries, I have the knowledge and experience to help you achieve your optimal outcomes.