How to Find a Torn Ligament
A torn ligament is a common injury, especially in athletes and those who are frequently active. Finding a torn ligament is something that you can do at home. A qualified physician, however, should make a proper diagnosis and determine the severity of and proper treatment for the tear.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Take note of any sharp pain. A torn ligament in the calf, for example, will be noticeable on walking. Unusually sharp pain should be reported to your physician.
-
2
Physically examine the injury. A ligament that has been torn might show visible signs, such as bruising. Swelling and bruising at the sight of a ligament can be a sign of a moderate to severe tear. A severely torn ligament may cause the muscle to which it is attached to bunch up irregularly.
-
-
3
Test the range of motion and strength of the ligament. For example, a torn bicep ligament will restrict the strength of the bicep muscle and the range of motion of the arm. If you have trouble contracting a muscle or bending a part of your body, you may have torn a ligament.
-
4
Lightly press your fingers to the suspected area of injury. A ligament that is painful to the touch indicates some form of a tear.
-
5
Visit your doctor. Your doctor can conduct a physical examination and diagnose the injury. You may undergo an MRI so that the physician can visually determine the degree of the tear and the proper treatment.
-
1
