Ligament injuries are among the most common musculoskeletal issues people face, whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply unlucky with an awkward twist. In clinic, ligament injuries are extremely common, a few examples include Disc Herniations (the ligaments holding in the disc get damaged), Facet Joint Strains (the capsule of the joint is a ligament), Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction (ligaments hold the joint in place) etc., all of which I see and treat on a daily basis.

Understanding the different grades of ligament injuries can help you better navigate your recovery journey and set realistic expectations. At MoveMed, we emphasise the importance of recognising the severity of these injuries to provide the most effective and personalised care.

Grades of Ligament Injuries: Recognising the Difference

Ligaments are tough bands of connective tissue that stabilise your joints and guide your movements. When ligaments are overstretched or torn, it can lead to pain, instability, and reduced function. The severity of a ligament injury is often classified into three grades:

Grade 1: Mild Strain – Painful, But Short-Term

A Grade 1 ligament injury is the least severe and involves minor stretching or tearing of the fibres. You might experience some discomfort, mild swelling, and a limited range of motion, but the overall structural integrity of the ligament remains intact. The pain usually subsides within a few days, and the healing process typically takes about two weeks.

Management Tips:

• Active Rest and Ice: Reduce inflammation with ice and active rest allows the affected area to not re-strain.

• Gentle Movement: Early gentle mobilisation can improve blood flow and speed up healing without stressing the ligament.

• Treatment: NRE protocol to remove the causes, re-move the joint and exercise/ strengthen going forward.

Research shows that light exercise and gradual return to normal activity are beneficial for Grade 1 injuries, as they promote collagen synthesis, crucial for ligament repair.

Grade 2: Partial Tear – Healing Takes Time

A Grade 2 injury involves a more significant but incomplete tear of the ligament. Pain can last one to two weeks, and the healing period is generally around six weeks. This injury grade may result in some joint instability and a noticeable decrease in function, which is why proper management is key.

Management Tips:

• Exercise Therapy: To stabilise the joint and prevent further damage.

• Myofascial Therapy: Guided rehabilitation exercises are essential to restore strength and stability.

• Pain Management: Anti-inflammatory medications can be helpful during the acute phase.

Research indicates that rehabilitation exercises tailored to the individual can significantly improve recovery outcomes for Grade 2 ligament injuries. Gradual progression of load-bearing exercises helps in restoring joint function and minimising the risk of re-injury.

Grade 3: Complete Tear – When Surgery is Often Necessary

Grade 3 ligament injuries are the most severe, involving a complete rupture of the ligament. This level of injury often results in significant pain, swelling, and joint instability. In many cases, surgical intervention is required to repair the ligament, followed by an extensive rehabilitation programme.

Management Tips:

• Surgery: Often recommended to reattach or reconstruct the ligament, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knee.

• Post-Operative Exercise Therapy: Critical to restoring range of motion, strength, and joint stability.

• Long-Term Maintenance: Continued exercises are necessary to maintain the ligament’s integrity and prevent further injuries.

Recent studies underscore the importance of early post-operative physiotherapy to enhance ligament healing and functional outcomes after surgery. The success of surgical intervention depends not only on the procedure itself but also on the patient’s commitment to rehabilitation.

Why Understanding Injury Grades Matters

Knowing the grade of your ligament injury helps set the right expectations for recovery and guides the best treatment approach. At MoveMed, we tailor our care to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the appropriate interventions to support your healing journey. Our focus is on getting you back to your normal activities safely and efficiently, without compromising long-term joint health.

Final Thoughts: Prevention is Key

While ligament injuries are sometimes unavoidable, strengthening exercises, proper warm-ups, and attention to movement mechanics can significantly reduce your risk. Stay proactive about your health, and if you’re dealing with a ligament injury, know that recovery is possible with the right approach.

Ready to Begin Your Recovery?

If you’re struggling with a ligament injury, book an appointment with us at MoveMed today. Our comprehensive assessments and personalised treatment plans will help you get back on track and moving pain-free.

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References:

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2. Chinn L, Hertel J. Rehabilitation of ankle and foot injuries in athletes. Clin Sports Med. 2010 Jan;29(1):157-67, table of contents. doi: 10.1016/j.csm.2009.09.006. PMID: 19945591; PMCID: PMC2786815. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2786815/

3. Yang J, Chu R, Chen Z, Qiu J, Pang Z, Yang H. The impact of physiotherapy interventions on enhancing wound healing post knee osteoarthritis surgery: A meta-analysis. Int Wound J. 2024 Feb;21(2):e14777. doi: 10.1111/iwj.14777. PMID: 38361227; PMCID: PMC10869649. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10869649/