Eshealthtips.com – The LCL is the ligament that connects the thighbone to the knee. The LCL is the most commonly torn during sports, such as soccer or football, where the knee may snap backward. Tears in the LCL cause significant damage to the knee’s soft tissues, including the tendons and muscles. As a result, the knee may feel unstable and unsupported. It may also feel loose and unstable.
Collateral Ligament Injury Requires Physical Therapy
A collateral ligament injury will typically require physical therapy. A physical therapist will first address the underlying causes of swelling or pain. They may administer electrical stimulation or perform rest periods with the leg elevated. Then, they will start exercises to help the knee return to full range of motion. These may include gentle stretches and riding a stationary bike. A physician may also apply pressure to the joint during the rehabilitation period to increase the flexibility. The goal is to get the patient back to normal sports activities and physical activity as soon as possible.
Physical therapy is often recommended after surgery to help the patient recover from collateral ligament injuries. The therapist will use ice and electrical stimulation to reduce swelling and pain, as well as rest periods with the leg elevated. Then, the therapist will employ a series of exercises that will allow the patient to regain full motion of the knee. These exercises will include a range of motion exercise program. These exercises will help the patient regain the full range of motion of the knee. The physical therapist will also apply pressure to the joint to help it heal quickly.
If the damage is severe, the doctor will recommend surgical repair of the ligament. In many cases, the patient may be able to return to sports activity without surgery. If the damage is severe, the surgeon may suggest that a synthetic suture is used to stabilize the torn ligament. The artificial ligament will act similar to the damaged collateral ligament, which will help reduce the load on the joint. The patient will also be given splints to wear until the swelling and pain subside.
Ways to Prevent Traumatic Tears of Ligaments
The best way to heal a torn collateral ligament is to use an allograft to replace it. The allograft tissue is taken from a deceased organ donor. The tissue is then inserted into the torn ligament and placed into the knee. It is important to follow your physician’s instructions carefully. The goal of physical therapy is to help the patient recover from the injury and return to regular activity. This is the only way to prevent a traumatic tear of the ligaments.
The MCL has twice the ultimate tensile strength and displacement of the LCL. The MCL has higher yield strength and failure energy than the LCL. The stiffness of the MCL is similar to the LCL. If the MCL is torn and stabilized, patients can return to sports, but they may need to wear a splint for a few weeks. The MCL has lower stiffness compared to the LCL, but this is usually temporary.
A ruptured LCL can cause pain and swelling. A swollen LCL may also be a symptom of a torn MCL. A swollen MCL can make it difficult to walk or move. It is best to seek medical attention if you think you’ve torn a collateral ligament. However, this is not the end of the world. A specialist can provide you with advice and the necessary treatment.
Strengthens Muscles and Modifies Activity
In addition to the sprained ligament, the sprained knee can also be injured. The patient may have multiple injuries and will need several surgeries. A physical therapist can help you overcome these problems and minimize your pain and swelling. The therapist will also help you bear weight while you’re standing. The physical therapist will prescribe you the right exercises and modifications for your lifestyle. During the first few weeks of treatment, you’ll be able to practice crutches and walk safely. Once your knee becomes more stable, the PT will begin working on strengthening your muscles and modifying your activities.
In addition to a physician’s diagnosis, a physical therapist will recommend an appropriate course of treatment for your injured knee. Physical therapists will use electrical stimulation, ice, and rest periods to help you recover. During this time, they will prescribe exercises to help you regain normal movement of your leg. After the initial treatment, you will begin to experience a gradual return to normal activities. If this is the case, you may need to undergo surgery to repair the torn collateral ligament.
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