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Swelling
Most patients with ACL tears have swelling almost immediately because some large blood vessels pass thru the ACL, so when it tears, the knee usually fills with blood almost immediately. Sometimes the knee does not swell in spite of an ACL tear...so this is not every case. The swelling usually resolves over about two weeks.
Inability to continue athletic activity
Most of the time, the athlete is unable to continue playing whatever sport is involved.
Giving way
Once the swelling subsides, the patient may report that his or her knee feels "unsteady" or unstable. Often the knee will suddenly "give out" when the athlete tries to plant his or her foot and twist on the knee.
Other
Once again, everyone is different...so many other possible symptoms may be associated with ACL tears.
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