ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries occurs during jumping, pivoting, or sudden changes in direction, such as soccer, basketball, or skiing, they can also occur in everyday activities. A large proportion of ACL injury patients usually aren’t athletes or involved in sporting activities, they had suffered from the injury during to day to day activities:

Causes of ACL Injury in Non-Athletes

Accidents and Falls:

  • Trips and Falls: A common cause of ACL injuries in non-athletes is a sudden, awkward fall or trip. This can happen while walking, climbing stairs, or even slipping on ice.
  • Car Accidents: High-impact collisions in car accidents can put significant stress on the knee, leading to an ACL tear.

Workplace Injuries:

  • Heavy Lifting: Jobs that involve lifting heavy objects or carrying awkward loads can put strain on the knees, increasing the risk of ACL injuries.
  • Accidents on the Job: Construction, factory work, and other physically demanding jobs can lead to accidents that result in ACL tears.

Routine Activities:

  • Sudden Movements: Everyday activities that involve sudden changes in movement, such as quickly changing direction while walking or standing up abruptly, can cause an ACL injury, especially if the knee is already weakened or unstable.
  • Household Activities: Simple activities like gardening, getting up from a low chair, or moving furniture can sometimes lead to an ACL tear, particularly in individuals with preexisting knee issues.

Degenerative Changes:

  • Aging: As people age, the ligaments and tendons in the knee can weaken, making them more susceptible to injuries from minor trauma or strain.
  • Previous Knee Issues: People with a history of knee problems or previous injuries might be more prone to ACL tears even with less strenuous activities.

Risk Factors for Non-Athletes

Muscle Weakness: Weak muscles around the knee can reduce stability and increase the risk of an ACL injury.

Poor Flexibility : Limited range of motion or flexibility in the leg muscles and tendons can contribute to knee instability and injury.

Previous Injuries: Previous knee injuries or surgeries can affect the integrity of the ACL and make it more susceptible to future tears.

Body Mechanics: Poor body mechanics, such as improper lifting techniques or uneven weight distribution, can put extra stress on the knees.

Symptoms of an ACL Injury

Whether in athletes or non-athletes, symptoms of an ACL injury are typically similar and may include:

  • Sudden Pain: A sharp pain felt at the time of injury.
  • Swelling: Rapid swelling of the knee joint, usually within a few hours.
  • Instability: A feeling of the knee “giving out” or being unstable.
  • Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee fully.

Treatment and Recovery

For non-athletes, the treatment and recovery process for an ACL injury is similar to that for athletes but tailored to the individual’s lifestyle and needs:

  • Non-Surgical Options: Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help strengthen the knee and improve function, especially if the injury is partial or the individual does not require high-level knee function.
  • Surgical Options: For complete tears or cases where non-surgical methods are not effective, ACL reconstruction surgery may be recommended, followed by a structured rehab program.
  • Rehabilitation: Focuses on restoring knee function, strength, and stability, and may involve exercises tailored to everyday activities rather than sports-specific drills.

Conclusion

ACL injuries are not exclusive to athletes and can occur in non-athletes due to various reasons, including accidents, falls, and everyday activities. Understanding the causes and risk factors can help in preventing such injuries and seeking appropriate treatment if they occur. Whether you’re an athlete or not, maintaining strong and flexible muscles around the knee, practicing good body mechanics, and addressing any preexisting knee issues can help reduce the risk of ACL injuries.