If you’re recovering from a ligament strain or tear, My Health Assistant makes it easy to find health professionals near mewith expertise in joint, sports, and musculoskeletal care. Visit www.myha.co.uk, enter your condition and location, and book appointments with GPs, physiotherapists, or orthopaedic specialists quickly and securely online.
Ligament strains and tears are common conditions that occur when the tough bands of connective tissue (ligaments) that support and stabilise joints are overstretched or torn. Ligaments connect bones to other bones and help maintain proper joint alignment during movement. These injuries often result from trauma, sports activities, or accidents and can range from mild sprains to complete ligament ruptures requiring surgery.
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the injury, but commonly include:
Sudden pain at the site of the injury
Swelling and inflammation around the joint
Bruising or discolouration
Joint instability or weakness
Popping or snapping sound at the time of injury
Limited range of motion or difficulty bearing weight
Muscle spasms or stiffness in the affected area
Pain and function often worsen with activity or pressure on the injured joint.
These injuries can result from various activities and incidents, such as:
Sports injuries – especially in high-impact or pivoting sports like football, basketball, or skiing
Falls or accidents – including slips or awkward landings
Sudden twisting or overextension – of the knee, ankle, wrist, or shoulder
Repetitive stress – causing gradual strain over time
Poor conditioning or warm-up – leading to reduced joint support during physical activity
The most commonly injured ligaments include the ACL (knee), MCL (knee), ATFL (ankle), and UCL (elbow).
You should seek medical attention if:
You experience a loud pop, immediate swelling, or severe pain
The joint feels unstable or gives way when you try to stand or walk
You can’t move or bear weight on the joint
The injury doesn’t improve after a few days of rest and home care
You have recurring sprains or instability in the same area
Timely diagnosis helps prevent further damage and ensures proper recovery.
Depending on the type and severity of the injury, treatment may involve:
General practitioners (GPs) – for initial assessment and referral
Physiotherapists – for rehabilitation, strength, and mobility recovery
Orthopaedic specialists – for advanced imaging and surgical options
Sports medicine doctors – for injury prevention and treatment in athletes
Radiologists – to provide imaging support (e.g., MRI, ultrasound)
Podiatrists – for foot and ankle ligament issues
Searching for health professionals near me? My Health Assistant connects you with local experts ready to support your recovery.
Failure to treat ligament injuries properly can result in:
Chronic pain or swelling
Joint instability and frequent re-injury
Permanent loss of mobility or strength
Development of osteoarthritis
Compensatory injuries in other areas due to imbalance or poor movement
Early intervention promotes better healing and reduces long-term complications.
Treatment depends on the injury's severity and may include:
R.I.C.E. method – Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation for mild injuries
Pain relief medications – such as NSAIDs
Physiotherapy – targeted exercises to restore mobility and strength
Bracing or support – to stabilise the joint during healing
Corticosteroid injections – in some cases of inflammation or chronic pain
Surgical repair or reconstruction – for complete tears or recurring injuries
Gradual return-to-play protocols – for athletes or active individuals
A tailored recovery plan ensures safe and effective rehabilitation.
Ligament strains and tears are painful but treatable conditions that require proper care to restore strength, mobility, and confidence. Whether you're recovering from a sports injury or a fall, professional assessment and personalised treatment make a big difference. My Health Assistant helps you connect with trusted health professionals near me to support your healing every step of the way. Get started today at www.myha.co.uk.
