Ligament Sprains & Treatment Options
You may have heard of an “ACL tear” or “MCL” tear, these are examples of ligament sprains in the knee joint, and commonly occur during sports.
According to the Canadian Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society, around 25,000 persons get sprained ankles every day. Individuals who usually face such injuries are physically active individuals like runners who fall and twist their ankles, or baseball players who twist their knees while playing. Wrist and thumb sprains can be especially seen in sports such as skiing, because of falling on an outstretched hand.
What is a ligament sprain?
Ligaments are strong bands of fibrous connective tissue that connect bones together. Ligament Sprains occur when a ligament has been stretched, damaged or ruptured. The most common mechanisms of ligament sprains include twisting, tripping or when contacted by a strong force. Ankle and wrist sprains are common examples and usually happen after a slip or fall or during contact sports.
Ligament Sprain Symptoms
Pain
Swelling
Bruising
Limited ability to move a joint
Difficulty bearing weight through joint
Hearing or feeling a “pop” at the time of injury
What causes ligament sprains?
A sprain occurs when a ligament is over-stretched or a severe amount of force is placed on a joint. Sprains commonly occur in the following situations: walking on uneven ground, landing or stepping awkwardly on one foot, landing improperly while jumping, pivoting during athletic activity, landing on an outstretched hand during a fall, and hyperextension of the thumb during racquet sports or skiing.
How can physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapy can assist with managing pain, swelling and bruising, and can assist with regaining any loss of range of motion and strength. Physiotherapy will help get you back to your regular activities as quickly and efficiently as possible! Our physiotherapists (Gena and Nicole) are happy to work with your family physician or other health care professionals to deliver an integrated approach to your rehabilitation.
Prevention
Maintaining an active lifestyle, including regular stretching and strengthening, will help to prevent ligament sprains. Managing your environment as best as possible, (keeping driveway clear, walking on dry surfaces) is another form of prevention.
Why choose Pillars of Wellness?
At Pillars of Wellness, in Burlington, Ontario, we are proud to provide a truly integrated care approach that employs a variety of treatments to achieve a faster recovery. Our clinic offers various services such as physiotherapy, chiropractic, naturopathy, counselling, occupational therapy, yoga therapy, acupuncture, and holistic nutrition.
With multiple services and specialties in one place, you’ll get the best care possible — without having to look elsewhere. Pillars of Wellness is your one-stop-health solution, located right here in Burlington.
Last but not least, physiotherapy is typically covered under most extended health insurance plans. If you do not have coverage or have exceeded your coverage limits, you can consult with our Chiropractors. Our Chiropractor, Dr. Maggie and Physiotherapists have skills and techniques to treat and manage ligament sprains and associated symptoms.
Additional Physiotherapy Services
Conditions We Treat
Neuro Physiotherapy
Orthopedic Rehabilitation
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy