Preparing for an appointment

The pain and disability associated with an ACL injury prompt many people to seek immediate medical attention. Others may make an appointment with their family doctors. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may be referred to a doctor specializing in sports medicine or a specialist in bone and joint surgery (orthopedic surgeon).

What you can do

Before an appointment, be prepared to answer the following questions:

• When did the injury occur?
• What were you doing at the time?
• Did you hear a loud pop or feel a "popping" sensation?
• Was there much swelling afterward?
• Have you injured your knee before?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• Do any specific movements seem to improve or worsen your symptoms?
• Does your knee ever "lock" or feel blocked when you're trying to move it?
• Do you ever feel that your knee is unstable or unable to support your weight?