What is the ACL?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key stabilising ligaments in the knee. It helps keep the shin bone (tibia) stable under the thigh bone (femur), especially during twisting, pivoting, and sudden changes of direction.
When the ACL is injured, the knee can feel unstable and simple activities like walking, running, or climbing stairs can suddenly become painful and difficult.
How Does an ACL Injury Happen?
ACL injuries are common both in athletes and the general population.
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In sports like soccer, netball, rugby, or jiu-jitsu, the ACL often tears during sudden changes of direction, pivoting, or awkward landings.
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In everyday life, slips, trips, or sudden twists of the knee can also cause ACL damage.
In the Rydalmere and Parramatta region, we see ACL injuries frequently in community sport, especially with young athletes and weekend warriors.
Symptoms of an ACL Injury
Typical signs include:
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A “pop” sound or sensation at the time of injury
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Immediate swelling in the knee
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Pain and difficulty weight-bearing
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Feeling of instability or the knee giving way
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Limited range of movement
First Steps if You Suspect an ACL Injury
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Stop the activity – don’t try to “run it off.”
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Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE) to manage swelling.
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Seek a physiotherapy assessment – our team at Rydalmere can assess knee stability, arrange scans if needed, and guide next steps.
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Don’t rush decisions – both surgical and non-surgical rehab options are available.
How Physiotherapy Helps
At our Rydalmere clinic, we support ACL patients from day one. Treatment often starts with:
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Manual therapy to reduce swelling and restore movement
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Strength and stability exercises
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Guidance on whether to consult a specialist surgeon
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Planning a clear rehabilitation pathway (surgical or non-surgical)
With our onsite gym and advanced force plate technology, we can track recovery progress accurately – something that makes a big difference in avoiding setbacks.
Serving Rydalmere and Surrounding Suburbs
If you’ve sustained a knee injury and suspect it could be an ACL tear, don’t wait. Our physiotherapy clinic in Rydalmere supports locals from Parramatta, Dundas, Ermington, Silverwater, Auburn, and West Ryde.
Take the First Step in Your Recovery
Book an ACL assessment with our physiotherapy team in Rydalmere today. Whether you’re an athlete or simply want to get back to everyday life without pain, we’ll help you find the right path forward.
👉 Book your appointment now and start your ACL recovery journey.
