Application of a splint
If a torn inner ligament of the knee (inner collateral ligament) has been diagnosed, treatment is usually performed with a splint (orthosis). Since the ligaments of the knee passively contribute to the stability of the knee by tightening in certain joint positions, the knee is splinted in such a way that these same joint positions cannot be assumed. Initially, the knee’s freedom of movement is very limited by this, usually only a flexion of about 60° is allowed.
Depending on the state of healing, the splint can then be readjusted so that gradually a higher degree of mobility of the joint is made possible. Such a splint is usually worn for about 6 weeks. During this time, however, the knee should not be completely spared; instead, physiotherapeutic exercises are also performed with the splint.
After the splint has been removed, no sports should be done for several weeks. In the vast majority of cases, the healing of a torn inner ligament of the knee is uncomplicated, so that after a few weeks, the joint can once again be put under everyday stress.In a few cases, however, more complicated procedures can occur, so that wearing a splint does not bring sufficient healing success and surgery becomes necessary instead. This is particularly indicated if the knee is still very unstable after completion of conservative therapy (splint). After the operation is completed, the next step in treatment is physiotherapeutic therapy, which should be started as early as possible and is unfortunately often quite lengthy.
