Chronic pain
Referral and follow-up of osteoarthritis-associated chronic pain

Gabby (24 years old)

Gabby is a 24-year-old woman who enjoys playing basketball at an amateur level. One week ago, she sustained a left knee injury during a basketball match. An MRI scan revealed a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the left knee.

She is currently using analgesics and a knee brace while awaiting further assessment and treatment with physical therapy. However, she would like to know if this injury will cause any long-term problems for her health.

Is the risk of developing OA in the future in the left knee comparable to the risk in the right knee for this patient?