ACL is one of the four major ligaments of Knee Joint. The knee Joint is made of 3 bones, 4 major ligaments, 2 menisci, cartilage over bone ends , synovium, capsule and space filling fat.
ACL ligament is made up of multiple fibers of connective tissue. Collagen Type 1 is is abundant in ACL. Hence some patients are advised supplementation of Collagen in knee injuries.
Function of ACL – Consider ACL as a rope which prevents the forward movement of leg bone (Tibia) compared to the thigh bone (Femur). It also prevents excessive concavity (Hyper extension) of Knee joint. This function is important for Stair case climbing,
Due to the mechanism of injury and structure of Knee joint, other parts of knee are usually damaged along with ACL – commonly MCL and menisci.