Which intracapsular ligament is most likely stretched or torn in serious knee injuries?
A fibular collateral ligament
B tibial collateral ligament
C posterior cruciate ligament
D anterior cruciate ligament
E patellotibial ligament
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is D. anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most commonly injured ligaments in the knee, especially in athletes participating in sports that involve sudden stops, jumps, and changes in direction, such as soccer, basketball, and skiing. It is located inside the knee joint and connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). The ACL is responsible for stabilizing the knee by preventing the tibia from sliding too far forward in relation to the femur. It also helps in maintaining the rotational stability of the knee during movement.
In serious knee injuries, such as those caused by trauma or awkward landings, the ACL is often stretched or torn. This can occur during high-impact sports or accidents, where the knee experiences excessive forces. ACL tears are frequently associated with activities that involve pivoting, rapid deceleration, or contact forces, which can cause the knee joint to move in ways that exceed the ligament’s normal range of motion.
A torn ACL typically results in significant knee instability, pain, swelling, and a loss of function. In many cases, surgical intervention is required to repair the ligament, especially for athletes who wish to return to high-level sports. Physical therapy is also an essential part of recovery to regain strength and stability in the knee.
While other ligaments such as the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), tibial collateral ligament (MCL), and fibular collateral ligament (LCL) can also be injured, the ACL is the most commonly torn ligament in serious knee injuries due to its role in stabilizing the knee during dynamic movement.