The Cruciate Ligaments are found inside your knee joint. They cross each other to form an "X" with the anterior cruciate ligament in front and the posterior cruciate ligament in back. The cruciate ligaments control the back and forth motion of your knee. An ACL tear is common among athletes. Young female athletes are especially prone to an ACL tear. Symptoms of an ACL tear can include:

• A feeling that your knee gives away when putting weight on it

• Popping or snapping sound

• Sharp pain

• Swelling

Most Cruciate tears require surgery. If surgery is not necessary, your therapist will work with you to restore muscle strength, agility and balance. Post-surgery, your treatment will include icing and compression, movement exercises, electrical stimulation and strengthening and balancing exercises.

Collateral ligaments are found on the sides of your knee. The medial or "inside" collateral ligament (MCL) connects the femur to the tibia. The lateral or "outside" collateral ligament (LCL) connects the femur to the smaller bone in the lower leg (fibula). The collateral ligaments control the sideways motion of your knee and brace it against unusual movement. Symptoms of collateral ligament injuries can include:

• Pain at the sides of your knee. If there is an MCL injury, the pain is on the inside of the knee; an LCL injury may cause pain on the outside of the knee.

• Swelling over the site of the injury.

• Instability — the feeling that your knee is giving way.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a broad term used to describe pain in the front of the knee and around the patella, or kneecap. It is sometimes called "runner's knee" or "jumper's knee" because it is common in people who participate in sports—particularly females and young adults—but patellofemoral pain syndrome can occur in nonathletes, as well. The pain and stiffness it causes can make it difficult to climb stairs, kneel down, and perform other everyday activities.

Many things may contribute to the development of patellofemoral pain syndrome. Problems with the alignment of the kneecap and overuse from vigorous athletics or training are often significant factors.

Symptoms are often relieved with conservative treatment, such as changes in activity levels or a therapeutic exercise program.

The meniscus is cartilage that cushions your knee. These injuries can affect both athletes and non-athletes and symptoms can include:

• Difficulty bending the knee

• Difficulty walking or stepping up/down stairs

• Difficulty standing after prolonged sitting

• Popping or tearing sensation

• Sharp pain

Meniscus injuries are often treated without surgery. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a specific treatment plan to meet your overall needs and goals.

Osteoarthritis is the deterioration of the cartilage that cushions your knee. Symptoms of osteoarthritis can include:

• Pain with walking, stepping up/down stairs and moving from a sit to stand position

• Pain or stiffness after having your knee bent or straight

• Popping, cracking or grinding when moving your knee

• Swelling after activity

• Tender to touch

Our team of physical therapists will develop an individualized plan of care to get you back to everyday activities.

The most common cause leading up to a total knee replacement (TKR) is osteoarthritis. Treatment involved in your TKR begins before surgery. Research has shown that having physical therapy prior to a knee replacement surgery positively impacts your results after surgery. Physical therapy is vital following a total knee replacement. This surgery has very good outcomes and includes multiple options for surgery.