Pain therapy | Therapy of a torn inner ligament in the knee

Pain therapy

Pain occurs immediately after the injury and is often accompanied by other symptoms. For this reason, the so-called PECH scheme (rest, ice, compression, elevation) should be applied immediately after the injury.Cooling the knee in particular helps against the pain. Furthermore, painkillers, so-called NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), can be taken for a short period of time.

These include drugs such as Ibuprofen or Diclofenac. These drugs also work simultaneously against inflammation in the knee joint. Furthermore, ointments with pain-relieving active ingredients such as Diclofenac, which are applied to the knee, are one way of counteracting the pain.

Homeopathic remedies can also be taken to support the pain. The pain can be relieved by globules containing Arnica, Calendula, Apis mellifica or Ruta graveolens. A physiotherapeutic treatment is also important and can alleviate pain. If the pain occurs under stress, bandages can stabilize the knee joint and reduce pain. Taping the knee can also counteract pain.

Duration of therapy and healing

The duration of therapy naturally depends on how pronounced the tear of the inner ligament is and which treatment is indicated. A relevant aspect is also whether other structures are affected. As soon as menisci, cruciate ligaments or even bony parts of the ligament are damaged, the healing period is extended by several weeks.

In general, healing takes at least a few weeks, but should take a maximum of 12 months. Minor injuries in which the inner ligament is not completely torn are usually treated conservatively, so that stress or light sports activities are possible again after only 2-8 weeks. Complete recovery usually occurs after about 3-4 months.

Of course, the healing process is very individual, so that some patients can only put weight on the knee again without complaints after 6-9 months. In any case, it is important that the aftercare is under medical control. The rehabilitation should also be sufficiently long so that the once injured inner ligament has enough time to heal, as otherwise the risk of chronic ligament instability or a renewed ligament lesion is increased.

In general, however, a torn inner ligament is an injury that heals without complications and has a good prognosis. In order to protect the knee for the period immediately after the injury, it is advisable to take sick leave for a certain period of time, depending on your professional activity. The sick note is usually issued by the family doctor. The duration of the sick leave depends on certain factors such as severity, choice of therapy and occupational strain on the inner ligaments.