ligamentsprång

Ligamentsprång, commonly translated as ligament sprain, describes injury to a ligament caused by overstretching or tearing due to a sudden twist, impact, or fall. Sprains can involve any joint but are most frequent in the ankles and wrists. They are categorized by severity based on tissue damage and joint stability.

Grading: Grade I (mild) stretching with minor fiber damage; Grade II (moderate) partial tear with some instability; Grade III (severe) complete rupture with significant instability. Symptoms escalate with pain, swelling, reduced function, and difficulty bearing weight (for ankle).

Diagnosis: clinical evaluation, stress tests, and imaging if needed. X-rays to rule out fractures; MRI or ultrasound can assess ligament integrity and injuries to surrounding structures.

Treatment: initial management follows a RICE/PRICE approach (rest, ice, compression, elevation, plus protection). Early mobilization and physiotherapy improve outcomes; bracing or immobilization may be used in moderate to severe cases. Surgery is rarely needed, typically only for complete rupture with persistent instability or associated injuries.

Prognosis and prevention: Recovery varies by severity, from days to months. Complications include chronic instability, recurrent sprains, and osteoarthritis in the long term. Prevention emphasizes proper conditioning, strength and proprioception training, appropriate footwear, and gradual return to activity.