The Washington Redskins have announced that punt returner
Richard Crawford is done for the season after suffering a significant left knee
injury, according to NFL.com.
Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan told reporters that
Crawford injured at least one, and potentially two, ligaments in his knee while
returning a punt in the first quarter of last night’s win over the Buffalo
Bills.
Here is Dr. Ray Solano’s take on the injury and how long
Crawford could be sidelined as a result:
"Richard Crawford suffered an injury to his left lateral collateral ligament (LCL). Here's what we know so far. Trainers and doctors have evaluated him and diagnosed an LCL tear with possible damage to his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Anytime there is suspicion of ACL damage, this leads me to believe the tear to the LCL is a grade 3, the most severe of its kind, which requires surgery to repair.
Immediate findings on this type of injury can include considerable pain and tenderness at the inner side of the knee, some swelling, and marked joint instability. The knee opens up slightly less than half an inch when moved. A grade 3 LCL tear means the ligament is completely torn.
In the event where the ACL is not damaged, it can take up to 3 months to heal after surgery. If the ACL has been compromised, the surgery to repair is more extensive and can put Crawford out 6-8 months. Either way, unfortunately his 2013 season is over."If you're not already doing so, you need to be following Dr. Solano on Twitter. He's an awesome follow and is willing to answer your sports- and injury-related questions. Follow him at @DrRaySolano!
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