What are the treatment methods for joint ligament injuries?
Nov 20, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Patients with severe intra-articular ligament injuries can also undergo surgical treatment under a doctor's guidance. Commonly used surgical methods include arthroscopic ligament repair and open joint ligament injury repair. Arthroscopic ligament repair is often used for the repair or reconstruction of intra-articular ligament injuries, such as anterior and posterior cruciate ligament injuries in the knee joint, and has advantages such as minimal trauma and rapid recovery.
Generally, the management of joint ligament injuries includes immobilization and rest, cold compress, heat compress, medication, and surgical treatment. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow standardized treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Immobilization and Rest
After a joint ligament injury, physical activity should be stopped immediately to avoid worsening the injury. Additionally, immobilization using plaster, braces, or bandages should be applied to reduce joint movement and promote ligament healing.
2. Cold Compress
Within the first 48 hours after injury, apply a cold compress locally using an ice pack, ice towel, or cold mineral water. Cold compress helps constrict capillaries, reduce local bleeding and swelling, and alleviate pain.
3. Heat Compress
After 48 hours from the injury, apply a warm towel, hot water bag, or similar item for local heat therapy. Heat compress improves blood circulation, accelerates inflammation resolution, and promotes ligament healing.
4. Medication
Following joint ligament injury, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be taken orally under a doctor's guidance, such as loxoprofen sodium tablets, celecoxib capsules, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets. These medications have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
5. Surgical Treatment
Patients with severe intra-articular ligament injuries may undergo surgical treatment under medical guidance. Common surgical procedures include arthroscopic ligament repair and open joint ligament repair. Arthroscopic ligament repair is commonly used for repairing or reconstructing intra-articular ligaments, such as anterior and posterior cruciate ligament injuries of the knee joint, and offers advantages such as minimal invasiveness and faster recovery. Open joint ligament repair is suitable for repairing ligaments around the joint, such as medial and lateral collateral ligament injuries of the knee or elbow joints.
During the recovery period of ligament injury, avoid strenuous or high-intensity exercise. Consuming more protein-, vitamin-, and mineral-rich foods such as lean meat, fish, legumes, vegetables, and fruits is beneficial for recovery.
