"And number 25 steps up to the foul line. This shot could mean the game. The pressure is on. Can he do it folks?"

Ahh, the familiar sounds of basketball. Just picture it. The cheerleaders, the crowd, the announcer, the opposing team; it's all up to you. If you make this shot you win the game. It all comes down to one last shot for the championship. Ok, so maybe it's all in your head and you're just playing a pick-up game in your driveway, but isn't it great!

Jason felt the same euphoria the day he was playing a pick-up game of basketball with some friends, but Jason's game didn't end with the championship win that day, it ended with a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament. Realizing he had a significant injury, Jason quickly saw an Orthopedic surgeon who said surgery was needed to repair the damage done to his knee so that he could continue to be active and not develop debilitating arthritis. After Jason's surgery, he immediately started physical therapy at HealthWorks Rehab & Fitness. For Jason this surgery was not a hindrance, but a chance to return to his normal lifestyle. His goal was to be able to play basketball again and to participate in other activities he enjoys, such as running 5K and 10K races. Jason has completed three months of therapy and is well on his way to recovery. With the precise directions of his physical therapist and athletic trainer, Jason is progressing well toward complete rehabilitation. An ACL injury and surgery is challenging to recover from, but Jason's determination and dedication coupled with expert one on one supervision will have him back on the court in no time.

ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries are spoken of as a routine occurrence in today's sports reporting. They are not routine to those unfortunate individuals who suffer through this, however, these injuries do not need to be the end of one's fun and activity. With a team composed of experienced orthopedic surgeon, determined patient, and caring, knowledgeable physical therapist and athletic trainer, recovery is possible.

ACL injuries occur most often with a twisting mechanism without contact with another individual. The individual usually reports a "pop" of the knee, can not usually walk comfortably, and experiences significant swelling. In some occurrences, all three of these signs do not appear. An ACL rupture does not heal on its own. If you or someone you know is suspicious that they have suffered this injury, feel free to call HealthWorks Rehab & Fitness. We can help direct you to the care you need.