The most common mechanism for tearing the ACL is when an athlete has his or her foot planted and twists the knee or is hit on the outer aspect of the knee causing the knee to buckle. A pop may be felt and/or heard. There is usually immediate swelling and difficulty bearing weight. The knee may feel unstable or may buckle. 

To learn more about ACL injuries, click here.

Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear

Meniscus tears typically cause pain along the inner (medial meniscus) or outer (lateral meniscus) parts of the knee. The pain is worse with kneeling, squatting, twisting, or impact activities. Examination typically reveals joint line tenderness where the examiner pushes along the meniscus resulting in tenderness. There may be swelling of the knee.

To learn more about Meniscus Injuries, click here.