Abstract
The increase in incidence and identification of skeletally immature anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries has stimulated new interest in treatment options. While nonoperative management of pediatric ACL injury has been historically associated with ongoing instability, lower rates of return to sport, and subsequent cartilage injury, it may be a viable option for some athletes when proper rehabilitation is employed. In the absence of other injuries, a formal and supervised physical therapy program and a functional brace may be considered for all young patients with ACL injury prior to consideration of a surgical procedure. A four-phase physical therapy program utilizing a timeline and functional milestones is recommended. Variable outcomes of nonsurgical treatment have been reported, but select athletes with proper nonoperative management may be able to function at a high level without instability or increased risk of further injury.
Original language | English (US) |
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Title of host publication | The Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament |
Subtitle of host publication | Evaluation and Management Strategies |
Publisher | Springer International Publishing |
Pages | 69-82 |
Number of pages | 14 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9783319647715 |
ISBN (Print) | 9783319647708 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 1 2017 |
Keywords
- Functional brace
- Nonoperative treatment
- Pediatric ACL injury
- Physical therapy
- Rehabilitation
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Medicine