When a ligament tears, the immediate consequences are pain, swelling, and instability in the affected joint. The severity of these effects depends on the extent of the tear (ranging from a mild sprain to a complete rupture).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Pain: A torn ligament often causes immediate and sharp pain. The intensity can vary depending on the severity of the tear and individual pain tolerance.
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Swelling: Inflammation and swelling around the injured joint are common due to bleeding and fluid accumulation in the surrounding tissues.
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Instability: Ligaments connect bones and provide joint stability. When a ligament is torn, the joint's stability is compromised. This can manifest as a feeling of the joint "giving way" or being unable to bear weight.
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Popping Sensation/Sound: Some people report hearing or feeling a "pop" at the moment the ligament tears.
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Limited Range of Motion: Pain and swelling can restrict the joint's normal range of motion.
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Bruising: Discoloration due to bleeding under the skin may appear around the injured area after some time.
The reference mentions: "Common symptoms of tendon and ligament tears are pain and swelling. You may also hear or feel a pop when you tear the tissue. Tears or ruptures to tendons and ligaments can: Cause extreme pain." This reinforces the key symptoms associated with a ligament tear.
In summary, a ligament tear results in pain, swelling, instability of the joint, and potentially a popping sensation, hindering normal movement and weight-bearing capacity.
