Can I injure a ligament?
A ligament can be stretched or torn. This injury is called a sprain. It occurs when a ligament is forced to move in the wrong direction or stretches too far. Sprains often happen during a sudden fall, twist or impact.
Ligament injuries are common, especially in the:
- Ankle, knee or wrist.
- Back.
- Neck.
- Thumb or finger.
For example, if you step on a sidewalk curb the wrong way, you may twist and sprain your ankle. If you fall but catch yourself on an outstretched hand, you can injure the ligaments in your wrist. People sometimes injure ligaments from impact during a car or bike accident.
What are the symptoms of a sprain or torn ligament?
If you injure a ligament, symptoms may include:
- Bruising.
- Loose feeling in the joint.
- Pain.
- Popping or snapping sound.
- Swelling.
- Trouble bearing weight on the affected limb.
- Weakness in the joint.
How are sprains classified?
A healthcare provider will grade your sprain by how severe it is and what symptoms you have:
- Grade 1: A grade 1 sprain is a ligament that is overstretched or slightly torn. With a grade 1 strain, you’ll have minimal pain, swelling and bruising. You won’t have much trouble putting weight on that part of the body or using it.
- Grade 2: A grade 2 sprain involves a partial ligament tear. Signs include bruising, swelling, some pain and some difficulty using the body part or putting weight on it.
- Grade 3: A grade 3 sprain is a complete ligament tear or rupture. It causes severe bruising, swelling and pain. With a grade 3 sprain, you cannot use or put weight on that part of the body.
How can a healthcare provider tell if I’ve injured a ligament?
If you think you have a sprain or torn ligament, a healthcare provider may:
- Ask you about your symptoms and when they started.
- Conduct a physical exam by looking at the injured area and assessing how it moves.
- Order imaging tests if necessary, such as MRI, to take pictures of the ligament.
- Take X-rays to rule out a broken bone or other problem.
What are the common treatments for a sprained ligament?
Treatments for ligament injuries vary greatly, depending on:
- How long you’ve had symptoms.
- How severe the injury is (grade 1, 2 or 3).
- Whether it’s interfering with your life.
Treatment may range from:
- RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression (with an elastic bandage) and Elevation.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Immobilization (such as a splint, sling or brace) or assistive devices (for example, crutches to keep weight off the injury).
- Physical therapy.
- Surgery.
