Knee pain can show up in many ways: after a hard practice, a weekend game, or even a simple misstep. But when pain is paired with instability or swelling, it may be more than a minor strain. ACL injuries are one of the most common knee injuries we see in athletes and active individuals, and recognizing the early warning signs is key to protecting long-term knee health.
At Access Sports Medicine, our sports medicine physicians, orthopedic specialists, and physical therapists evaluate and treat ACL injuries every day. Early diagnosis allows us to create a personalized plan that protects the knee, restores function, and helps patients return to the activities they love.
Below are three common signs your ACL may be injured and why they shouldn’t be ignored.
1. Knee Instability or “Giving Way”
One of the hallmark signs of an ACL injury is a feeling that the knee is unstable or may buckle, especially during cutting, pivoting, or sudden changes in direction. Many patients describe it as their knee “giving out” or not trusting it to support their weight.
This happens because the ACL plays a critical role in stabilizing the knee joint. When it’s damaged, the knee can no longer control rotational movement effectively, increasing the risk of further injury to cartilage or other ligaments if left untreated.
If you notice instability during sports, exercise, or even daily activities, it’s a strong signal that your knee needs a professional evaluation.
2. Swelling After Activity or Injury
Swelling that develops quickly after a knee injury, often within a few hours, can indicate internal joint damage. In many ACL injuries, swelling occurs due to bleeding within the joint following ligament trauma.
While swelling may improve with rest and ice, recurring or persistent swelling after activity is not normal. It may be your body’s response to ongoing instability or irritation inside the knee.
Our clinical team uses advanced diagnostic tools and thorough physical exams to determine the cause of swelling and identify ACL injuries early, before secondary damage occurs.
3. Pain With Movement or Weight-Bearing
Pain from an ACL injury can range from sharp and immediate at the time of injury to a lingering ache that worsens with activity. Some individuals are surprised that pain isn’t always severe at rest, but increases with jumping, running, or pivoting movements.
Pain combined with instability or swelling should never be brushed off as “just soreness.” Continuing to push through pain can compromise knee mechanics and delay recovery.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
ACL injuries don’t look the same for everyone. Factors like age, activity level, sport, and overall knee health all influence the best treatment approach. Early evaluation allows our team to determine whether conservative care, physical therapy, or surgical consultation is appropriate and to guide that decision with evidence-based expertise.
Delaying diagnosis can increase the risk of meniscus damage, cartilage wear, and long-term joint issues, including arthritis.
Expert Care for ACL Injuries
At Access Sports Medicine, we combine specialized orthopedic knowledge with hands-on rehabilitation to deliver comprehensive care for ACL injuries. From accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment and return-to-sport planning, our team is focused on helping patients move confidently again.
If you’re experiencing knee pain, instability, or swelling, scheduling an evaluation is the first step toward protecting long-term knee health.
Ready to take the next step? Our team is here to help you get answers and get back to doing what you love. If your knee pain or instability can’t wait, Access Sports Medicine offers walk-in orthopedic care in Exeter or Portsmouth for prompt evaluation; no appointment needed. Whether you visit our walk-in clinic or schedule a follow-up with our specialists, you’ll receive expert guidance focused on protecting your long-term knee health.
