Ligament Sprains or Tears

Ligament Sprains or Tears is very cammon injury found in knee. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most common ligaments to be injured. The ACL is often stretched and/or torn during a sudden twisting motion (when the feet stay planted one way, but the knees turn the other way). Skiing, basketball, and football are sports that have a higher risk of ACL injuries.

Causes of Ligament Sprains or Tears

The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is also a common ligament to become injured in the knee. However, the PCL injury usually occurs with sudden, direct impact, such as in a car accident or during a football tackle.

The medial collateral ligament is injured more often than the lateral collateral ligament. Stretch and tear injuries to the collateral ligaments are usually caused by a blow to the outer side of the knee, such as when playing hockey or football.

Symptoms of Ligament Sprains or Tears

Often, a cruciate ligament injury does not cause pain. Instead, the person may hear a popping sound as the injury occurs, followed by the leg buckling when trying to stand on it, and swelling. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently.

The symptoms of a cruciate ligament injury may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.

Similar to cruciate ligament injuries, an injury to the collateral ligament causes the knee to pop and buckle, causing pain and swelling.

The symptoms of a collateral ligament sprains may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.

Diagnosis of Ligament Sprains or Tears

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, Orthopedic Specialist at Shreya Hospital may include the following diagnostic procedures for a knee ligament injury :

• X-ray. A diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film to rule out an injury to bone instead of, or in addition to, a ligament injury.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body; can often determine damage or disease in bones and a surrounding ligament or muscle.
• Arthroscopy. A minimally-invasive diagnostic and treatment procedure used for conditions of a joint. This procedure uses a small, lighted, optic tube (arthroscope) that is inserted into the joint through a small incision in the joint. Images of the inside of the joint are projected onto a screen; used to evaluate any degenerative and/or arthritic changes in the joint; to detect bone diseases and tumors; to determine the cause of bone pain and inflammation.

Treatment of Ligament Sprain or Tears

Specific treatment for a knee ligament sprains or tears will be determined by your doctor based on:

• Your age
• Your overall health and medical history
• How bad your injury is
• How well you can tolerate specific medications, procedures, and therapies
• How long it may take for your injury to heal
• Your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

• Medication such as ibuprofen
• Muscle-strengthening exercises
• Protective knee brace (for use during exercise)
• Ice pack application (to reduce swelling)
• Surgery