Cruciate Ligament Disease

The cruciate ligament attaches the femur to the tibia, prevents the knee joint from over rotating, overextending, and prevents the tibia shifting forward to the femur.  The cause is mainly degenerative, rather than trauma because of injury.  Fibres within the ligament weakened overtime. Genetics, obesity, hormonal imbalance, perhaps being neutered too early (prior to fully developed growth plates), and certain inflammatory conditions of the joint itself. It affects one or both knees, causes pain, limping, difficulty rising and short strides. Can be misdiagnosed as a neurological condition.  Surgery is usually recommended; massage can aid healing, circulation, mobility and decrease swelling.