Everything you should know about ligament injuries

They can happen when we least expect and are noticed by excruciating pain they cause. Find out what are the ligament injuries, how to treat and cure.

A crash, a sudden movement or a shock are enough reasons for the occurrence of ligament injuries, when the elastic bands that connect muscles to bones are displaced from their natural position and suffer a tear. The pain of this injury are unspeakable and, therefore, it is imperative that you seek a doctor immediately.

Ligament injuries are very common: it is estimated that, worldwide, more than 25 thousand people suffer this injury daily, the most common is the ankle ligament injury. Many runners suffer from this illness in the ankle, while tennis player’s injuries wrists and elbows. The soccer players are also prone to this type of injury, and the knees are often struck in these cases.

Symptoms of ligament injuries are mainly two: inflammation and pain. Later, there will be a certain stiffness and the affected limb will be unable to fulfill its function. Some people compare tis pain and the impossibility of moving the hurt region to what happens when you got a fracture.

Upon arriving at the hospital, you will go through an x-ray to determine if it is really a ligament injury or if it is not a sprain or a fracture: then, and after the diagnosis, the doctor will tell you that you will have to rest for the next few weeks to promote the regeneration of the tendons, he you will give you painkillers and some physiotherapy sessions. It is also advisable to apply ice, three to four times a day. Needless to say that, until then, zero exercise: otherwise, the injury can get worse and recovery may be compromised.

The best way to avoid a ligament injury is preventing it: before starting any exercise, stretch muscles and tendons through a light warming, about five minutes. You can prevent the injury doing so. On the other hand, do not exert too much stress on your body, and if you have started a sport not long ago, increase load and intensity slowly. Your body has limits.