Can you walk on a foot with torn ligaments?
The quick answer is yes, typically you can walk with a torn ligament or tendon in the foot. Walking may be painful but you can typically still walk. For example, the Posterior Tibialis Tendon runs down the back of the shin, behind the middle bump of the ankle (medial malleolus) and to the bottom of the foot.
How do you treat a torn lateral ankle ligament?
Treatment of lateral ankle ligament sprain
- Phase 1 includes rest from sport, compression, and regular icing to limit swelling.
- Phase 2 includes range of motion exercises, stretching, and calf strengthening.
- Phase 3 involves complex exercises and gradual return to running and change of direction activity.
What ligaments are on the lateral side of the foot?
The lateral ligaments of the ankle, composed of the anterior talo-fibular ligament (ATFL), the calcaneo-fibular ligament (CFL) and the posterior talo-fibular ligament.
How long does a torn foot ligament take to heal?
Most minor-to-moderate injuries will heal within 2 to 4 weeks. More severe injuries, such as injuries that need a cast or splint, will need a longer time to heal, up to 6 to 8 weeks. The most serious injuries will need surgery to reduce the bone and allow the ligaments to heal. The healing process can be 6 to 8 months.
Do torn ligaments heal?
Beware the fully torn ligament Complete tears rarely heal naturally. Since there’s a disconnect between the tissue and any chance of blood supply, surgery is needed. Surgery also helps the joint heal correctly and reduces the chances of re-injury. For instance, an ACL rupture will require reconstruction.
How do you know if you tore your anterior talofibular ligament?
Complete tears of the main ligament (ATFL-anterior talofibular ligament) are usually accompanied by more pain, difficulty weightbearing, swelling and discoloration to the outside of the ankle. These ligament injuries require immobilization to allow the ligament to heal primarily.
Do you need a cast for torn ligaments?
You may need a cast or crutches, and you may even need surgery to repair the torn ligament. After surgery or immobilization, you may require physical therapy and rehabilitation to get back to your pre-injury condition. While some ligament tears are relatively minor, you shouldn’t take them lightly.