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Question:
I was recently diagnose by MRI with a complete tear of my ACL this occured during a ski trip about a month ago. I am having pain (pinching, burning, floating, popping and grinding) and a sideways shifting sensation in or around the joint of my knee when I do straight leg raises and coffee tin raises. The PT looked and it and suggested that I ask my OS about a possible LCL and/or MCL. Is it possible to have all three and still be walking? Also is it a good possibility that the MRI did not pick up one or two of the other tears?
Thank you!
| Dr. Farr |
Dr. Farr is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in knee and sports medicine. He serves on the board of the Orthopedic Research Foundation and is medical director of www.cartilagerestoration.org and www.myknee.md, where emphasis is on exploring new ways to treat damaged cartilage. Dr. Farr is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), the American Orthopedic Society of Sports Medicine (AOSSM) and the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA).
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Answer:
You are right to question the MRI. Although they are becoming more sensitive each year, none has reached 100%. At times they also can "overread" as well as underdetect. A careful clinical exam and reexam remain the standard for assessing ligament damage. MRIs are useful when used in conjunction with the exam and they can also point to meniscal and articular cartilage lesions. Early on in rehab, a sensation of "looseness" may be on the basis of incomplete muscle coordinated function rather than ligamentous problems. That you and your PT are requesting a reexam makes sense and, as above, a reexam in part of the ongoing process of treatment assessment.
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