Conservative therapy | Treatment of a torn ligament

Conservative therapy

Relief and protection are the basis of the treatment. All measures are aimed at reducing pain and counteracting swelling. Supporting bandages, bandages or plastic splints are used to stabilize the joint and reduce swelling.

In exceptional cases, a plaster cast can be applied in case of pronounced swelling or severe pain. Painkillers provide relief. Once the swelling and pain have subsided, you can begin to apply gentle pressure to the leg.

The load should be supported by physiotherapeutic treatment with the aim of strengthening the muscles and improving the coordination of movement and self-reflexes. This is also important to prevent the leg from twisting again. In most cases, the ligaments heal and the joint becomes sufficiently stable again. If the treatment is not successful, surgical suturing of the ligaments can also be carried out after a few months.

Duration of the treatment

The treatment of a torn ligament in the knee, ankle and foot can take varying lengths of time. The choice of treatment measures depends on the severity of the injury, the age of the patient and possibly on the patient’s profession or leisure activities, so that the treatment can be tailored to these. With conservative approaches, the affected joint is usually spared.

Under certain circumstances, this may also include a plaster cast. The cast remains on the foot for about 6 weeks. Afterwards, the load and mobility must be supported by exercises with physiotherapy, so that the healing process lasts about 2 to 3 months.

A similarly long-lasting treatment can also be expected for surgical procedures. In addition, there is the planning of the operation, an inpatient stay, the increased risk of complications. After an operation, patients receive precise instructions on how they may load the affected leg. Here too, physiotherapy may still be necessary for several weeks.