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Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries

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Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is a tear in a knee ligament that connects the thighbone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia). The ACL helps keep your knee stable.

You can tear your ACL when the upper leg bone is moving in a different direction from the lower leg bone. Sometimes the ACL is completely torn. Other times it is only partially torn. It can happen during sports or from trauma when you fall or are hit around the knee.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.