How to Treat Injuries to Knee Ligaments?

Knee Ligament Injuries: Treatment Options

Injury to the knee ligament is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions, especially among athletes, active individuals, and workers in physically demanding jobs. The knee, a multi-axial joint stabilized by four important ligaments—ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL—plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and movement.

When one or more of these ligaments is stretched, sprained, or ruptured, it may significantly impact an individual's mobility and quality of life. Proper diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential for pain relief, restoring function, and preventing prolonged complications. Read ahead to learn more about the treatments for knee ligament injuries.

What are the Best Treatment Options for Knee Ligament Injuries?

The following are some of the best treatment options for knee ligament injuries:

1. Immediate Care: RICE Method

The initial response to a knee ligament sprain typically involves the RICE method:

• Rest: Avoid activities that strain the knee.
• Ice: Apply ice packs for 20-30 minutes every 3-4 hours to reduce swelling.
• Compression: Use an elastic bandage to minimize swelling.
• Elevation: Keep the knee elevated above heart level to lessen swelling.

This approach helps control pain and swelling in the early stages of injury and may prevent the condition from worsening before medical treatment.

2. Non-Surgical Treatments

Most knee ligament injuries, especially partial tears or sprains, can be treated without surgery, such as:

• Physical Therapy: A rehabilitation program with a structured approach aimed at strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee to re-establish stability and functionality.
• Bracing: A knee brace can be worn to support and prevent further injury during the recovery process.
• Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to alleviate pain and inflammation.

Non-surgical treatments are often effective for MCL and PCL injuries, as well as specific ACL injuries, depending on the individual's activity level and the severity of the injury.

3. Surgical Interventions

Surgery may be recommended for complete tears, particularly in active individuals or when the knee continues to be unstable even after non-surgical treatments:

• ACL Reconstruction: This procedure involves repairing the damaged ligament by replacing it with a graft, typically taken from a tendon in the patient's body or a donor.
• PCL and LCL Repairs: Severe tears may necessitate surgical repair or reconstruction, especially when accompanied by other ligament damage.

Postoperative rehabilitation is crucial for restoring knee function and involves physical therapy, as well as returning to normal daily activities. Patient compliance and adaptation to rehabilitation plans are essential factors for achieving successful surgical outcomes.

At Star Health, we offer coverage for knee-related surgeries under our Star Comprehensive Insurance Policy. We provide hassle-free claim settlements with reduced turnaround time across over 14,000 network hospitals in India.

4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP therapy is a new, minimally invasive treatment that utilizes the body's recovery mechanisms. A small blood sample from the patient is required to process and purify the platelets and then inject the PRP into the area of injury.

• Advantages: PRP can heal tissue and reduce inflammation, which is beneficial in cases of partial ligament tears.
• Disadvantages: Usually not used for total tears and may not provide an alternative to more established therapies.

Certain patients have recovered faster and experienced reduced pain by using PRP combined with rehabilitation. Ongoing studies continue to examine the long-term effectiveness of PRP for ligament recovery.

What Does Rehabilitation and Recovery Involve After a Knee Ligament Injury?

Rehabilitation is a crucial part of recovery following knee ligament injuries, whether treated surgically or non-surgically, which is divided into phases such as:

• Phase 1: Focuses on reducing pain and swelling, restoring the range of motion in the knee, and beginning gentle strengthening exercises. 
• Phase 2: Emphasizes strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee, improving balance, and increasing flexibility. 
• Phase 3: Involves advanced exercises to restore full functionality, including sport-specific workouts tailored for athletes.

The duration of rehabilitation is determined by the severity of the injury and the treatment protocol, typically lasting several weeks to several months. Regular follow-ups and adherence to treatment protocols significantly enhance long-term outcomes and prevent re-injury.

What are the Best Strategies to Prevent Knee Ligament Injuries?

Preventing knee ligament injuries involves the following:

• Strength Training: Building muscles around the knee, including the quadriceps (quads), hamstrings, and calf muscles, enhances joint stability, reduces strain on ligaments, and helps prevent injuries during physical activities.
• Proper Technique: Acquiring adequate movement patterns, such as soft landings after jumps and preventing knee twisting, reduces the excessive load on ligaments and lowers the risk of injury while participating in sports or exercise.
• Use of Protective Gear: Wearing properly supported footwear and knee braces, if necessary, can absorb impact and help protect the knee joint from further damage, especially during intense exertion.
• Regular Conditioning: Overall fitness gained through cardio, strength, and flexibility training improves joint stability balance and reduces the risk of ligament injuries by keeping muscles and ligaments strong.

Knee ligament injuries must be addressed promptly and appropriately to achieve optimal recovery. While most injuries can be treated with non-surgical methods, some cases require surgical intervention. An effective rehabilitation program is essential for restoring knee function and preventing future injuries.

Consulting with healthcare professionals specializing in orthopaedics or sports medicine is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs.

Also Read:

→ What is the General Cost of Knee Surgery

→ What are the Non-Surgical Options for Treating Knee Pain

→ What are the Common Ways to Treat Knee Pain

→ How Does PRP Treat Knee Pain Effectively

→ What are the Best Home Remedies for Relieving Knee Pain