6. Difficulty Walking
The major function of the knee is to facilitate walking through the flexion and extension of the lower leg proportionate to the thigh. When the ACL is compromised, walking is affected by the extension. It is for this reason that paramedics rush to carry an injured athlete immediately after an ACL tear. In the case of a mild ACL tear, the victim might only experience discomfort during walking, but the condition cannot totally paralyze mobility. Grade I and sometimes grade II of ACL tear can be rehabilitated through light physical therapy that includes wearing knee braces for a while, at least until the knee can flex without difficulty.
It is important to note that the extent of the injury worsens when the victim continues walking or engaging the knee immediately after the injury. Until the severity of the condition is determined, a victim should stop walking and seek medical attention.