Ligament Injuries - Physiotherapy in Northampton & Corby

Diagnosing Ligament Injuries

Diagnosing a ligament injury is a critical step in determining the appropriate treatment plan and ensuring a full recovery. At Team Rehab UK, we utilise a combination of clinical assessments and advanced imaging techniques to accurately diagnose the extent and severity of ligament injuries in the knee.

​

Clinical Examination

The initial diagnosis typically begins with a thorough clinical examination by a physiotherapist in Northampton. This examination includes:

• Medical History: The physiotherapist will first discuss your symptoms, how the injury occurred, and any previous knee injuries or conditions you may have had. Understanding the circumstances of the injury can provide valuable clues about which ligament may be damaged.

• Physical Examination: During the physical examination, the physiotherapist will assess the knee's range of motion, stability, and alignment. Specific manual tests, such as the Lachman test for ACL injuries or the Varus/Valgus stress test for MCL and LCL injuries, are performed to evaluate the integrity of the ligaments. These tests involve applying pressure to the knee in various directions to check for abnormal movement, which may indicate a tear or sprain.

• Observation of Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the knee joint are common indicators of ligament injuries. The physiotherapist will also observe how you walk and whether you experience any difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.

​

Diagnostic Imaging

If a ligament injury is suspected, further diagnostic imaging may be required to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the damage. This might include:

• X-rays: While X-rays cannot directly visualise ligament damage, they are useful in ruling out fractures or dislocations that could accompany a ligament injury. They also help in assessing the alignment of the knee joint.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI scan is the gold standard for diagnosing ligament injuries. It provides detailed images of the soft tissues in the knee, including ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. An MRI can reveal the extent of a ligament tear, whether it is partial or complete, and if there are any associated injuries, such as meniscal tears or bone bruises.

• Ultrasound: In some cases, an ultrasound may be used to evaluate ligament injuries. This imaging method can be particularly useful for assessing superficial ligaments like the MCL or LCL. It also allows for dynamic assessment, meaning the physiotherapist can observe the ligament during movement.

​

After a comprehensive diagnosis, the physiotherapist will discuss the findings with you and recommend an appropriate treatment plan, which may range from conservative management to surgical intervention.

Treatment Options for Ligament Injuries

Treating ligament injuries requires a comprehensive and tailored approach, depending on the severity of the injury and the specific ligament involved. At Team Rehab UK, we combine evidence-based practices with cutting-edge techniques to offer a range of treatment options designed to restore knee function, stability, and overall mobility.

​

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

For many ligament injuries, particularly mild to moderate sprains or partial tears, conservative management can be highly effective. This approach focuses on allowing the ligament to heal naturally while strengthening the knee and improving stability.

​

• Activity Modification and Rest: One of the first steps in treating a ligament injury is to modify or restrict activities that place stress on the knee. Rest is essential in the early stages to prevent further damage. At Team Rehab UK, we guide patients on how to adjust their daily routines and provide advice on safe, low-impact exercises that can be performed during the recovery period.

​

• Cryotherapy and Thermotherapy: Applying ice (cryotherapy) in the initial phase of injury helps to reduce swelling and numb the area, while heat (thermotherapy) can be beneficial in the later stages to relax muscles and improve blood circulation to the injured ligament. Our physiotherapists can advise on the appropriate timing and duration of these treatments.

​

• Progressive Loading and Strengthening: Once the acute pain and swelling have subsided, a gradual reintroduction of load-bearing activities is crucial. This phase involves:

  • Isometric Exercises: Initially, exercises that involve contracting muscles without moving the joint (isometric exercises) are introduced to maintain muscle tone without placing undue stress on the ligament.

  • Resistance Training: As healing progresses, resistance exercises using bands, weights, or body weight are incorporated to strengthen the muscles around the knee, particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. This helps to support the injured ligament and prevent future injuries.

  • Eccentric Exercises: Eccentric exercises, which focus on lengthening muscles under tension, are particularly effective in rehabilitating ligament injuries. These exercises help improve the strength and elasticity of the muscles and tendons, reducing the load on the healing ligament.

​

• Proprioception and Neuromuscular Training: Ligament injuries can disrupt the body's sense of joint position (proprioception). Neuromuscular training exercises, such as balance training, single-leg stands, and dynamic stability exercises, help restore proprioception and improve knee stability. This training is crucial for preventing re-injury and ensuring a safe return to sports or physical activities.

​

• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisations, deep tissue massage, and myofascial release are used to enhance joint mobility, reduce scar tissue formation, and alleviate pain. These therapies are tailored to the individual’s specific needs and injury severity.

​

• Use of Orthotics and Bracing: Custom orthotics can be prescribed to correct underlying biomechanical issues that may have contributed to the ligament injury, such as flat feet or improper gait. Knee braces or supports may also be recommended to provide additional stability during the healing process, particularly during high-risk activities.

​

• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): In some cases, ESWT may be used as a non-invasive treatment to stimulate healing in chronic ligament injuries. This therapy involves delivering high-energy sound waves to the affected area, promoting tissue regeneration and reducing pain.

Summary

If you’re struggling with a ligament injury or experiencing knee instability, don’t wait to seek professional help. Contact Team Rehab UK today to schedule your consultation. Our team of expert physiotherapists and consultants is here to guide you through every step of your recovery, providing personalised care that meets your unique needs. 

​

For more information or to book an appointment, visit Team Rehab UK. We’re here to support you every step of the way in your journey to recovery.