Not all torn ligaments are the same. If only one ligament is torn, the stability of the ankle does not necessarily have to suffer. If several ligaments are torn, ankle stability is no longer guaranteed. A distinction is also made between completely torn and torn ligaments.
The patient's symptoms and the extent to which they restrict them are also important for treatment.
Several ligaments give the ankle joint its stability © bilderzwerg / Fotolia
Unlike bones, ligaments and tendons cannot be visualized on an X-ray. Nevertheless, an X-ray is usually taken for a general diagnosis. This allows bony injuries to be ruled out.
X-rays can also provide an indication of other injuries to the ligamentous apparatus. For example, if the distance between the tibia and fibula is too great, this indicates a tear in the syndesmosis (connecting ligament between the tibia and fibula).
The diagnosis also includes
The degree of damage is important for choosing the right treatment. After an ankle sprain, the classic measures are used first. This is known as the PECH method:
- P: rest,
- E: Ice,
- C: Compression (pressure bandage)
- H: elevation.
These measures help to reduce swelling and pain.
As arule, surgery is no longer necessary for torn ligaments. Conservative therapy is usually sufficient.
However, if bony parts are affected, surgery may be necessary. If the syndesmosis is injured, surgery is often unavoidable, especially for competitive athletes.
Conservative treatment involves immobilizing the joint for a few days until the swelling has largely subsided. To prevent the ankle from twisting again immediately, doctors often prescribe a special plastic splint to keep the foot stable. Treatments such as iontophoresis or ultrasound can also provide relief.
For athletes, this is followed by physiotherapeutic treatment consisting of strength, endurance and coordination training.
What are the possible complications?
Normally, a torn ankle ligament heals without any consequences. However, if the patient starts to bear weight again too soon, it can take considerably longer for the pain and swelling to disappear.
Of course, it can also happen that ligaments grow back together too loosely. This is referred to as mechanical instability.
Redness and swelling is a sign of a torn ligament © Leop / Fotolia
When can you move properly again?
There is no precise answer to this question. Normally, a torn ligament heals within four to six weeks. However, it also depends on how severe the injury is and what treatment is required.
After an operation, rehabilitation often takes longer than after conservative treatment. The patient's behavior is also important. Do they adhere to the doctor's instructions? How well do they cooperate during rehabilitation? The patient's behavior plays a major role in the therapy.
There is no such thing as one hundred percent certainty. Trauma to the ankle can occur anywhere and at any time. However, the patient can minimize the risk.
For example, special coordination exercises can help. This is known as "proprioceptive training". Balancing on one leg or using wobble boards and wobble cushions can improve the interaction between
improve.
Orthopaedists and specially trained sports physicians are the first port of call for a torn ankle ligament. They know how the body moves. If surgery is required, a surgeon will usually also be involved.
A specialist is also important for aftercare. A good physiotherapy practice can help the injured person to get back on their feet more quickly.
