Ligament Sprains

Ligament sprains usually occur when a joint is extended past its normal range of mobility. Ligaments function to connect bones to each other and provide stability to a joint. When they are placed under excessive stress, parts of the fibres can become torn. The area is typically inflamed and the body lays down a bridge of scar tissue to try and facilitate healing, but the quality of this scar tissue is usually weak and stiff. Physiotherapy treatment initially focuses on reducing inflammation through rest, ice, compression anti-flammatories and ultrasound.

Once the inflammation has settled, the scar mass is usually broken down with firm massage so that better quality tissue can be laid down in its place. This is accompanied by a specific exercise program aimed to improve joint stability, balance and general strength and flexibility around the area.