Description Tear of the ligamen...
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.