Description
Tear of the ligament. Ligaments are strong, fibrous bands of tissue that hold bones together near joints. This provides stability. Trauma is the most common cause of a torn ligament. Ligament tears can make it difficult or impossible to use the joint.
Symptoms
Pain, swelling, mild redness, bruising, tenderness, decreased motion, joint laxity, a feeling of instability.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An x-ray may be helpful to rule out a fracture. An MRI can identify the torn ligament and assess the extent of damage.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Podiatry, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An x-ray may be helpful to rule out a fracture. An MRI can identify the torn ligament and assess the extent of damage.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Podiatry, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine Surgery
Treatment
Treatment includes: immobilization, ice, elevation and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), and/or pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol). Physical therapy and therapeutic ultrasound may be helpful but for complete ligament tears, prolonged immobilization and/or surgery are often required.