KNEE LIGAMENT INJURIES

If you suffer from joint instability, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Are Ligament Injuries?

Ligament injuries refer to damage or tears in the ligaments, which are strong bands of fibrous tissue that connect bones and stabilize joints. Ligaments play a crucial role in providing stability, limiting excessive joint movement, and preventing dislocation or abnormal joint motion.

Common causes of ligament injuries include:

1. Direct trauma: A sudden force or impact to a joint can result in ligamentsprains or tears. This can occur during sports activities, accidents, or falls.
2. Overuse or repetitive stress: Repetitive movements or excessive stress on a joint over time can lead to ligament overstretching or degeneration, increasing the risk of injury.

Ligament injuries can occur in various joints throughout the body, but some of the most commonly affected areas include the ankle, knee, wrist, and shoulder.

Indications Of Ligament Injuries

Symptoms of ligament injuries may vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. However, common signs and symptoms include:

1. Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the affected joint
2. Joint instability or a feeling of giving way
3. Restricted range of motion or difficulty moving the joint
4. Bruising or discoloration around the injured area
5. Inability to bear weight or use the affected joint properly

The severity of ligament injuries can range from mild sprains, where the ligament is stretched or partially torn, to complete ligament tears or ruptures.

Treatments For Ligament Injuries

Treatment for ligament injuries depends on the extent of the damage and the specific joint involved. Common treatment approaches include:

1. Rest and immobilization: Initially, the injured joint may need rest and protection to allow the ligament to heal. This may involve using crutches, slings, braces, or splints to immobilize the joint.
2. Ice and compression: Applying ice packs and using compression wraps can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation in the early stages of the injury.
3. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
4. Physical therapy: Once the acute phase has passed, physical therapy exercises and rehabilitation are important to regain strength, stability, and range of motion in the joint.
5. Surgery: In some cases, particularly with severe ligament tears or injuries that don’t respond to conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options can include ligament repair, reconstruction using grafts, or other procedures to stabilize the joint.

It is crucial to seek medical evaluation and proper diagnosis for ligament injuries. A healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic specialist or sports medicine physician, can assess the injury, recommend appropriate treatment, and provide guidance for rehabilitation to facilitate a safe and effective recovery.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Telemedicine appointments are also available.