The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the ligaments in the knee. It connects the upper and lower leg bones. When the ACL tears, it causes the knee to become unstable and may cause the knee to “give way.” Along with the pain it causes, it can also make it difficult to continue working or even put weight on the knee.
What Is a Torn ACL Injury?
A tear to the ACL occurs when the knee joint twists or bends the wrong way. Injury to the ACL most often occurs from sports activities, falls, and work injuries. An ACL tear can range from mild to severe. A severe case is most damaging because it causes the ligament to tear completely, or it causes the ligament and a portion of the bone to separate from the remaining bone. As a result, this causes the knee to buckle, and the knee joint will fill with blood if the blood vessels tear.
Symptoms of a Torn ACL Injury
A torn ACL injury can result in some of the following symptoms:
- Popping noise
- Buckling of the knee
- Swelling
- Severe pain
- Limited movement of the knee
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor. They can try to prevent further harm and begin treatment.
Treatment of a Torn ACL Injury
Treatment for a torn ACL can include nonsurgical and surgical treatment. The first step in treating a torn ACL is to reduce the swelling. This is accomplished by resting the knee, using ice, and elevating the leg. It may be necessary to use a splint to stabilize the knee. Physical therapy will help the knee return to normal or near-normal functioning. Surgery may be required if reconstruction of the ACL is necessary.
Can I Get Workers’ Comp for a Torn ACL?
Quite a few occupations can lead to the overuse and trauma that causes a torn ACL. While anyone could tear an ACL in the right circumstances, jobs that require kneeling, heavy lifting, and other pressure on your knees often lead to ACL injuries.
If you’ve torn your ACL in a work-related injury, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania. You’ll likely have to prove how your work caused the injury, though. A lawyer can help you determine if you can pursue a workers’ comp settlement for your torn ACL.
What’s Covered Under Workers’ Compensation for Torn ACL Injuries?
A torn ACL can have life-changing effects, including on your ability to walk, go back to work, and control your financial situation. You’re likely facing a long recovery period before you can get back to normal, which could even include surgery. This means medical bills may start to pile up, and you may not be able to return to work for a while.
This is when workers’ compensation benefits can help. The average workers’ comp settlement for a torn ACL will cover your medical treatment, lost wages, and other benefits. A compassionate workers’ compensation attorney can fight for your rights and make sure you get the medical treatment and financial compensation you need for your work-related injury.
Contact an Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
If you tore your ACL in a work-related injury, you may be able to receive Pennsylvania workers’ compensation benefits. A Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney can help assess your case and advise you on your workers’ compensation claim. Call or contact Calhoon and Kaminsky P.C. online today to schedule a consultation.
This post was originally published in June 2011 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness in March 2022.
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For more than 20 years, our attorneys have been helping injured workers navigate the complex Pennsylvania workers’ compensation system. We empower workers with the information and the representation they need to make the best decisions for themselves and their families’ future.
