The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • November 22, 2024
The Anatomy of the Knee: Understanding Your ACL's Role

One of the most important ligaments in the knee joint is the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ACL, which is often overlooked in favor of its larger counterpart, the medial collateral ligament (MCL), is essential for knee stability and mobility. It’s important to know how the ACL works and the role that it plays in your knee’s mobility and health.


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How Does the Knee Work?

The knee joint is one of the most complex joints in the human body. It's a hinge joint that allows for flexion (bending) and extension (straightening) of the leg. To function properly, the knee relies on a delicate balance of bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.

Key structures within the knee joint:

  • Bones: Femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone), and patella (kneecap)
  • Ligaments: ACL, PCL (posterior cruciate ligament), MCL, and LCL (lateral collateral ligament)
  • Tendons: Quadriceps tendon and hamstring tendons
  • Cartilage: Articular cartilage and meniscus


What Does the ACL Do?

The ACL is a crucial ligament that connects the tibia to the femur. Its primary function is to prevent the tibia from sliding forward under the femur. It also plays a role in rotational stability, helping to control excessive twisting of the knee joint.


How Does the ACL works with Other Parts of the Knee?

  • MCL and LCL: These ligaments provide stability to the sides of the knee joint.
  • Meniscus: The meniscus is an important part of the knee that acts as a shock absorber and helps to distribute weight evenly across the joint.
  • Quadriceps and hamstring muscles: These muscles work together to provide dynamic stability to the knee joint.


What are the Symptoms of an ACL Injury?

An ACL injury can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Common symptoms include:

  • Sudden, sharp pain
  • Swelling
  • Difficulty bearing weight
  • Knee instability


In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the torn ligament. Physical therapy is often necessary to restore strength, flexibility, and stability to the knee joint.


To prevent ACL injuries, it's essential to:

  • Strengthen the muscles around the knee joint
  • Improve flexibility
  • Use proper technique during sports and exercise
  • Wear appropriate footwear


By understanding the intricate workings of the ACL and other knee structures, we can better appreciate the importance of maintaining knee health and preventing injuries.


If you’ve suffered a knee injury, the team of orthopedists and specialists at Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge is here to help. Schedule an appointment today and benefit from their 75 years of experience, and get back on your feet!

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Bone & Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge Physician Practice Transition – Effective April 1, 2025

By Bone and Joint Clinic Staff • April 1, 2025
BATON ROUGE, LA, January 30, 2025 – Effective April 1, 2025, four distinguished orthopedic surgeons from The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will transition to Baton Rouge Orthopedic Clinic (BROC), continuing their commitment to providing high-quality orthopedic care. The physicians joining BROC are: 1. Joseph "Jeb" Broyles, MD – Specializes in joint replacement surgery, knee arthroscopy, and cartilage regeneration. 2. Arthur "Art" Hess, MD – Specializes in trauma, hip, knee, and shoulder reconstruction, and total joint replacement surgery. 3. Mat hew "Matt" Mazoch, M D – Specializes in shoulder and knee surgery. 4. Alan Schroeder, MD – Specializes in sports medicine and shoulder surgery. Beginning April 1, 2025, these physicians will operate under BROC's umbrella while continuing to see patients at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge's current location, 7301 Hennessy Blvd. Eventually, the doctors plan to transition to BROC's campus on Bluebonnet Blvd. The estimated timeline for that move is Summer/Fall 2025. In addition, Dr. Patrick Hall will be transitioning to his own practice, Hall Podiatry, that will continue to provide quality podiatric care to patients. Dr. Hall will continue to practice at 7301 Hennessy Blvd. until May/June 2025. After that date, patients may see him at a new nearby location. Dr. Christopher Belleau is transitioning to The Neuromedical Center in Baton Rouge.  Patients are encouraged to continue scheduling appointments at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge using the current process for the foreseeable future. To ensure a seamless transition, The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will provide detailed information to patients in the coming weeks, including the secure transfer of medical records and continuity of care. The health and well-being of patients remain the top priority, and The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge, BROC, and Hall Podiatry are working together to make this transition as smooth as possible while maintaining uninterrupted care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, patients can contact The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge at 225-766-0050 or by visiting bjcbr.com . Patients can also reach BROC at 225-924-2424 or by visiting brortho.com .
Dr. Gerard Murtagh to Retire After Distinguished Career in Orthopedic Surgery

Dr. Gerard Murtagh to Retire After Distinguished Career in Orthopedic Surgery

By The Bone & Joint Clinic • March 10, 2025
Dr. Gerard Murtagh will retire from Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge on March 12, 2025, after a long and distinguished career dedicated to advancing orthopedic surgery.
Recognizing the Signs That You May Need a Joint Replacement

Recognizing the Signs That You May Need a Joint Replacement

By The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • February 12, 2025
Sometimes, joint replacement is the best course of action, even when conservative measures like medicine, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes might be helpful. Knowing when a joint replacement is necessary can help you take prompt action and improve your quality of life.
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