Symptoms of torn ligaments in the knee
A torn ligament in the knee causes various typical symptoms. The main symptom of torn ligaments is severe, acute pain. Further symptoms are swelling and bruising (hematoma).
The swelling in a torn ligament develops relatively quickly a few minutes after the event and is clearly visible. It is caused by torn blood vessels and inflammatory fluid in the knee, which are also responsible for pain. The bleeding can also be seen on the skin as bruising.
If a complete ligament rupture is present, additional symptoms such as instability and insecurity in the knee joint occur. The gait becomes shaky and the knee is clearly affected. Many of these symptoms are also used in the diagnosis.
Directly from the triggering event, relatively severe pain in the knee occurs. This pain is described as bright and stabbing. The pain becomes stronger with movement.
The knee can no longer be loaded and is immediately brought into a gentle position. Depending on the different types of torn ligament, the pain is emphasized on the inside or outside, a cruciate ligament causes pain globally. Often the symptoms develop in such a way that the pain subsides after a few hours and is possibly only perceived as a feeling of tension. However, the pain reappears immediately on exertion.
What should I do if I suspect a torn ligament?
After an accident, in which a torn ligament in the knee is not unlikely, those affected usually ask themselves What should I do? The first thing to do is to immediately relieve the pressure on the knee and keep it still. The knee can be cooled and elevated to prevent swelling.
Indications for a torn ligament are severe pain and other symptoms described above. In this case, medical help should be sought, as a torn ligament in the knee needs to be repaired. Friends can also do something by supporting the affected person on the way.