Stability through the use of a rail
An important measure in the treatment of a torn ligament in the ankle joint is stabilisation and fixation so that the ligament can grow back together again and to ensure a physiological sequence of movements in the joint despite the torn ligament. In this case, a splint is recommended by orthopaedists. It is available in different sizes and designs and can be individually adapted by adjustable Velcro straps or similar.
Compared to the Tapen, it offers significantly more stability and fixation in the desired position of the ankle joint, as it contains a rigid component. A further advantage of the splint is that it can be fitted and removed quickly, so that it can also be removed for a short time in between. A disadvantage of the splint in the case of torn ligaments is that the rigid shape can cause pressure points and the splint can be perceived as uncomfortable, especially if swelling occurs due to the injury.
The splint should simply be used for fixation at the beginning of the therapy. Later, when the ankle joint can gradually be loaded more again, it should above all stabilize and prevent it from buckling. As a rule, it should be worn for about six weeks without interruption.
Stability through the use of a tape bandage
Tapen plays an important role in the treatment of torn ligaments in the ankle joint. The tape bandage offers a high degree of stability in the ankle joint because it is not as elastic and is applied with relatively high tension. After a torn ligament, the ankle joint should be tried to be fixed in a position that allows the torn ligament to grow together again.
The high stability in the ankle joint due to the taping prevents movements that would worsen the condition of the torn ligament. At the same time the tape has the property to stimulate the mechanoreceptors of the skin when it is stretched or jammed by the tape. As a result, depth sensitivity and blood circulation and thus regeneration can be optimized, so that the torn ligament at the ankle joint is supported in its healing.
The main advantage of Tapen is that it guarantees a certain residual function despite immobilisation of the joint, which enables the affected person to be relatively mobile. How the tape is applied is determined by the structures affected by the torn ligament. It is important that the position and condition of the tape bandage is regularly checked and, if necessary, renewed in order to avoid possible injuries to the skin or incorrect positioning of the ankle joint.
Recovery time after a torn ligament at the ankle
The healing time of a torn ankle ligament includes the time from when the ligament is torn until the moment when the ankle joint can be loaded again without any problems. The extent of the healing time varies greatly. It can last from weeks to months, but on average it is about one to three months.
The healing time depends on various factors which can have both a positive and a negative influence. It would be negative if, after a torn ligament in the ankle joint, the affected ligament continues to be strained by stress on the foot when walking or doing sports. Since the ligaments of the ankle joint are exposed to high forces when under stress, this means that if the ligament is torn, the ligaments do not have sufficient time to rejoin at rest.
In addition, newly formed tissue bridges between the ends of the ligaments can tear off again when the body weight is shifted to the affected side. Thus the healing period would be extended. Fixation or stabilisation of the ankle joint, for example with a splint in the wrong position and location, can also lead to a longer healing time for the torn ligament.
Consistent protection of the ankle joint has a positive effect on the healing time. This means that the foot must not be put under any load at all at the beginning, and only gradually after some time. As a result, the ligament can usually heal again without any problems.
In addition, a splint or tape bandage should be worn to stabilize and fix the ankle joint during the protection phase and thus protect it from external influences and incorrect posture. What is also beneficial for the healing period of the torn ligament is physiotherapy, which should activate and strengthen the muscles around the ankle so that the ligament has to cope with less strength on its own in the future and it is protected. In addition, the affected ligament should be stretched and strengthened together with the other ligaments of the ankle joint in a physiotherapeutic treatment after healing.
On the one hand to restore the initial situation as far as possible, and on the other hand to prevent a torn ligament in the future. This shows that the healing period is not a fixed period that applies to everyone, but rather a summary of many events and the result of various measures. In order to achieve the shortest possible healing period, it is recommended to draw up a treatment plan together with a doctor, which takes into account all factors of healing of the torn ligament at the ankle joint.
