HOW LIGAMENTS TEAR
Common causes of ligament tears are twisting body parts or hard or awkward landings. Tears often happen when ligaments are stretched fully and then encounter some form of impact or trauma. Ankle sprains, a mild torn ligament in the ankle, can happen when you are walking or running, land awkwardly, and twist your ankle. The knee and ankle ligaments are more vulnerable to tearing because they are weight-bearing ligaments that are often under stress. People who engage in sports that involve full contact (like hockey and football) or many changes of direction (like basketball and tennis) are most susceptible to ligament injuries.
TYPICAL TREATMENT PLANS FOR TORN LIGAMENTS
If you have a mild ligament tear, like a minor ankle sprain, you may be able to treat it at home. Orthopedic doctors often recommend the RICE therapy protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation). However, for more severe tears, you should see a doctor who will examine you and perform some tests to make a diagnosis and offer the proper treatment.
The treatment plan for ligament tears will vary depending on the location of the tear, the severity of the injury, and your tolerance for different treatment options. You may need a cast or crutches, and you may even need surgery to repair the torn ligament. After surgery or immobilization, you may require physical therapy and rehabilitation to get back to your pre-injury condition.
While some ligament tears are relatively minor, you shouldn’t take them lightly. Make sure to see your doctor right away if the pain and swelling don’t decrease within 24 to 72 hours, you cannot bear any weight on the affected body part, or your symptoms get worse.