Ligamentous injurIES
The Basics
Knee ligaments are bands of tissue that help provide stability and control of the joints. Major knee ligaments include the anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, and lateral collateral ligament.
Ligamental injuries could be from sudden movement, falls, and direct contact, that cause a torn or stretched ligament. These injuries are common in high contact sports or activities that need sudden twisting or pivoting.
Signs and symptoms
Patients with ligamental injury may experience a sudden pop or buckle of the knee, accompanied by sudden pain. Patients may also feel instability, swelling, and pain when standing.
Treatment
Ligamental tears can be treated nonoperatively with activity modification, icing, anti-inflammatories, bracing during exercise, and physical therapy.
Operative management might be recommended after considering many factors such as age, injury, overall health, and sport goals .
