A torn ACL can change your brain?  Really?

In sports, we hear a lot about ACL injuries.  The ACL is a ligament in the middle of the knee that helps stabilize the knee joint.  It’s a devastating injury, requiring surgery and a ton of physical therapy.  Once it’s injured, it’ll happen again.  These injuries recur because the reconstructive surgery creates structural changes in the brain that interfere with recovery.  Afterward, these changes cause poor athletic performance.  The problem is in the pathway of the brain that sends signals to the muscles.  The pathway responsible for the injured knee is about 15% smaller than the other knee.  The muscles near the damaged knee aren’t getting as much information because the brain changed in order to protect that area.  A total body rehabilitation approach is needed because of adverse effects in other areas.  Make sure your athlete gets what they need.

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