Your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is located in the middle of the knee joint, connecting the shin bone (tibia) to the thigh-bone (femur). It crosses over diagonally with the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) to control the backward and forward movement of the knee at the joint. It is one of four strong stabilising ligaments of the knee, along with the PCL and the medial and lateral collateral ligaments. The ACL works to stop the tibia from sliding forwards in front of the femur.
Injury to the ACL is a common knee injury, and often occurs alongside injury to other knee structures, such as the cartilage and the Collateral Ligaments. The different levels of severity of injury include a ligament sprain, a partial tear, or a complete rupture. ACL injuries are often sustained by athletes involved in high-impact sports that involve sudden changes in direction, such as basketball or soccer. ACL injuries are more common in females, which may be attributed to by muscle strength, control and conditioning. Typically, ACL injuries are caused by:
Depending on the severity of your injury, symptoms may include:
When the injury first occurs, it’s important to stop physical activity and avoid walking on the affected knee where possible. Following the PRICE principles (protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation) can help reduce the initial pain and swelling. If you have had a rupture or significant tear to your ACL, you may require surgery. It’s important that you have a diagnosis to confirm the extent of your injury, which may involve having an ultrasound, x-ray or MRI imaging. Your podiatrist can help you gradually rebuild the strength in your knee and surrounding muscles, and improve the range of motion in the joint, which will likely be restricted following your injury. Your podiatrist will make recommendations based on the cause of your injury to both help your recovery and reduce the risk of re-injury in the future. This may look at the use of Orthotics to control motion at the feet and legs, assessing the stability of your Footwear, teaching you how to strap your knee or recommending a Brace, and physical therapy.
If you’re unsure whether you should wear walking or running shoes when exercising, this article is for you.
We explain the differences between walking and running shoes and how to determine which one is best for your feet. When it comes to buying a new pair of shoes, most people walk into a store expecting to just “find something comfy.” Then, suddenly, you’re asked: Are you looking for
walking shoes or running shoes? And that’s where the confusion begins. Because for many people, the answer isn’t that simple.
You could walk a lot – to work, around the block, chasing after the kids, or while catching up with friends. You could have also just joined
a gym or registered for the Couch to 5km. Or you could be a walker who just wants the option to go for a run if the mood strikes. So, which
shoe do you pick?
Discover why foot health is so important as we age and how Perform Podiatry supports seniors in staying mobile, independent, and pain-free. From diabetic care to personalised treatment plans, we’re here to help keep your feet happy and healthy, every step of the way.
Discover how Class IV Laser Therapy at Perform Podiatry offers powerful, drug-free relief for foot and ankle pain. Backed by science, this advanced treatment helps you heal faster and move better, without the need for surgery or medication.
Keeping your family on their feet and helping them to walk, run, play and exceed their goals is why we love getting up in the morning.
Ground Floor, One Health Building
122 Remuera Rd, Remuera
Auckland 1050, New Zealand
| MON - FRI | 7:30am – 6:30pm |
| SAT | 8:30am – 4:30pm |
| SUN | Some availability |
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