Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are prevalent, especially among athletes in high-demand sports such as soccer, basketball, and skiing. With an annual incidence rate of approximately 1 in 3,500, female athletes are particularly at higher risk, with incidence ratios 2 to 8 times greater than their male counterparts. Key risk factors include a narrower intercondylar notch, increased posterior tibial slope, poor neuromuscular control, and high knee abduction moments. The mechanisms of ACL injuries often involve sudden deceleration, cutting, or pivoting motions, leading to a combination of anterior tibial translation and knee valgus. Physical examination for ACL injuries involves the Lachman test, anterior drawer test, and pivot shift test. Diagnosis is conrmed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment includes acute management with the RICE protocol, non-surgical options focusing on physical therapy, and surgical reconstruction using autografts or allografts. Postoperative rehabilitation is essential for restoring knee function, with return to sport typically occurring after 9-12 months.
