TreatmentTherapy
Unlike a torn ligament, overstretching does not require surgery. In case of acute overstretching, it is important to cool the ligament with ice immediately after the injury to prevent knee swelling. It also relieves the pain that occurs.
As a further measure against swelling, the knee should not be loaded and should be elevated. It is important to protect the knee until it has healed completely. The triggering movement should be avoided.
In severe cases, a pressure bandage can also be applied in order to counteract swelling through the resulting compression. In acute treatment, we speak of the so-called PECH rule: rest, ice, compression, elevation. These are the most important measures in the case of acute ligament overstretching. If the pain is severe, painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac can be taken if necessary. If necessary, knee bandages or tape can help until complete recovery.
Healing time
The healing time of an overstretched cruciate ligament is usually not long. With sufficient protection, it only takes a few days until the pain is relieved. However, pain can still occur under heavy strain and incomplete healing, which is why complete sparing is recommended for up to 4 weeks. It is possible, however, that the ligament does not completely regain its original elasticity and overstretching may occur more quickly in the future.
Sports Break
You should wait at least until you are completely pain-free and the swelling of the knee joint has subsided before you start exercising again. As a rule, sports are prohibited for 2-4 weeks. Without sufficient rest, the cruciate ligament cannot regenerate sufficiently and further consequences may occur. After the symptoms have improved, you should slowly start to do sports and especially rotary movements in the knee should be performed with caution.
Prognosis
Cruciate ligament hyperextension is usually only an acute and temporary impairment with good course. In most cases it heals within a short time and there are no far-reaching consequences. In rare cases, however, overstretching may occur more quickly in the event of further incidents, as the ligament is already damaged. In addition, there is a higher risk of a partial or complete rupture of the ligament in future injuries.
