Is My Ligament Injury Serious or Just a Minor Strain?

Question

A few weeks ago, I twisted my ankle while jogging, and ever since then, I’ve had this lingering pain. At first, I thought it was just a regular sprain, but it hasn’t completely healed. The swelling went down after a few days, but I still feel pain when I move a certain way or put too much pressure on it. Could this mean I’ve damaged a ligament?

The pain isn’t constant, but it flares up when I try to stretch or exercise. Sometimes, my knee also feels unstable, like it might give out if I take a wrong step. I read that ligament injuries can take longer to heal than regular muscle strains—does that mean I should avoid physical activity completely? Or should I keep moving to prevent stiffness?

I haven’t gotten an MRI or any scans yet, just been resting and using ice packs. But how do I know if a ligament is torn or just stretched? I don’t want to ignore it if it’s something serious. Also, are there any Ayurvedic treatments for ligament healing? I’ve heard about herbs like Shallaki and turmeric—do they actually help repair ligament damage?

Would physiotherapy help in recovering from a ligament injury, or should I wait until the pain is completely gone? And how long do ligament injuries usually take to heal? I just want to get back to normal without making it worse.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

It sounds like you may have a ligament injury. Here’s how to approach it:

Signs of a Ligament Injury:
Pain and swelling that linger after a sprain often indicate ligament damage.
Feeling of instability or knee giving out suggests ligament strain or partial tear.
Red flags: If pain persists or worsens, or if instability is significant, consider an MRI.
Healing Steps:
Rest & Ice: Continue resting and using ice for 15-20 mins a few times a day.
Compression & Elevation: Use an elastic bandage for support and elevate to reduce swelling.
Immobilization: Avoid full pressure or high-impact activities for now.
Ayurvedic Support:
Shallaki (Boswellia): Reduces inflammation and supports joint healing.
Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory properties can help with recovery.
Ashwagandha: Promotes tissue healing and reduces pain.
You can take these in capsule form or as herbal teas.
Physiotherapy:
Physiotherapy is key to preventing stiffness and regaining strength. Start gentle exercises to improve flexibility once swelling is gone, but avoid pushing through pain.
Balance Exercises: Gradually improve stability with guided exercises.
When to See a Doctor:
If pain, instability, or swelling persists for more than 4-6 weeks, consult a doctor for imaging (MRI).
Healing Timeline:
Mild sprains: 2-4 weeks
Moderate: 6-8 weeks
Severe or partial tears: 3+ months
Proper care can prevent further injury and speed up recovery.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

It sounds like your ankle injury may have affected the ligaments, especially if you’re still experiencing pain and instability after the initial swelling subsided. Ligament injuries can take longer to heal than muscle strains, and it’s important to avoid putting too much pressure on the injured area during recovery. Rest is crucial, but gentle movement and stretching, under the guidance of a physiotherapist, can help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness. Ayurvedic herbs like Shallaki (Boswellia) and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in healing ligament injuries by reducing swelling and improving circulation. Additionally, topical oils with ingredients like ginger or eucalyptus can provide relief and support tissue repair. If the pain persists or worsens, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for imaging tests like an MRI to assess the extent of the injury. Healing time varies but could take a few weeks to months depending on the severity, so listen to your body and take it slow with rehabilitation.

Is My Ligament Injury Serious or Just a Minor Strain? - #14569

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