Ligament Tears: Recovery and Rehabilitation Insights

Ligament tear injury

On September 5, I sustained an injury, and on September 7, during an orthopedic consultation, it was diagnosed as a left knee sprain with associated ligament tear.
An ultrasound was performed, and rehabilitation was recommended (ultrasound therapy, electrical stimulation, and heat therapy).
I started rehabilitation immediately after the consultation, but my leg swelled even more after the session.
That evening, I visited a martial arts clinic for a follow-up, and after two nights of dressing changes, they noted some reduction in swelling.
By the fourth night, after the consultation, I noticed slight improvement in my ability to walk during the day on the fifth day, but I still experienced pain.
I have been returning to the martial arts clinic daily for dressing changes.

I would like to ask if applying heat therapy at that time was appropriate.
How long will it take before I can walk normally? If I want to dive to about 10 meters on October 1, will that be possible? And will taking a 40-meter diving certification exam on October 10 be affected? Thank you.

Fish Liu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/13

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics

1.
If there is redness, swelling, or warmth upon touch, apply ice packs primarily.
If these symptoms are absent, you may switch to heat therapy.

2.
You can try to gradually progress into diving; if it doesn't cause pain, you should be fine.
Generally, it has little impact, but if you need to kick vigorously, it is advisable to wait until you feel better before diving.

Reply Date: 2020/09/13

More Info

Ligament tears, particularly in the knee, can be quite serious and require careful management to ensure proper healing and recovery. Based on your situation, it seems you have sustained a knee injury that includes a ligament tear, which is often accompanied by swelling, pain, and limited mobility. The treatment plan you've been given—rehabilitation, ultrasound therapy, electrical stimulation, and heat application—is a common approach to managing such injuries.

Understanding Ligament Tears
Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect bones to each other at joints. When a ligament is torn, it can lead to instability in the joint, pain, swelling, and difficulty in movement. The severity of the tear can vary, ranging from a mild sprain (where the ligament is stretched) to a complete tear (where the ligament is completely severed). In your case, it sounds like you are dealing with a significant injury that requires a structured rehabilitation program.

Recovery and Rehabilitation
1. Initial Treatment: In the first few days following a ligament injury, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is often recommended. Ice can help reduce swelling, while heat is typically used later in the healing process to promote blood flow and healing. Since you mentioned that heat application led to increased swelling, it may have been too early to apply heat. Generally, heat is introduced after the acute phase of injury has passed, usually after the first 48-72 hours.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy is crucial. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that will help restore strength and flexibility to your knee. It's important to follow their advice closely, as pushing too hard too soon can exacerbate swelling and pain.

3. Swelling Management: If your knee is still swelling significantly after rehabilitation sessions, it may be beneficial to revisit your treatment plan with your healthcare provider. They might suggest modifications to your rehabilitation exercises or additional treatments to manage the swelling.

4. Timeline for Recovery: The timeline for recovery from a ligament tear can vary widely depending on the severity of the injury. Mild sprains may heal within a few weeks, while more severe tears can take several months. It's essential to listen to your body and not rush the healing process. Returning to activities too soon can lead to re-injury.

Returning to Activities
Regarding your questions about diving:
- 10-Meter Dive: If you are considering diving at 10 meters on October 1, it is crucial to assess your knee's stability and pain levels. Diving can put additional stress on your joints, and if your knee is not fully healed, it could lead to complications.

- 40-Meter Dive: Similarly, for your 40-meter dive on October 10, you should consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist. They can evaluate your knee's condition and determine whether it is safe for you to participate in such activities.

Conclusion
In summary, recovery from a ligament tear requires a careful balance of rest, rehabilitation, and gradual return to activity. It's essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and any concerns you have regarding your recovery. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation and ensure that you are on the right path to recovery. Always prioritize your health and safety over the desire to return to activities prematurely.

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