Tendon and Ligament Tears: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery
In our latest post, we concluded our miniseries on tendinopathies, finishing at the shoulder. The most logical idea for our next miniseries is to discuss another common injury classification we see with tendons and ligaments: tears. In the next handful of posts, we will discuss what a tendon or ligament tear is, the common tears in both the upper and lower body that we physiotherapist see regularly, and how we approach them in their recovery.
Today’s post will provide a general overview of tears, including what they are, signs/symptoms of tears, and their recovery and rehabilitation.
Understanding Tendons and Ligaments:
Before diving into the injuries, it’s helpful to understand what tendons and ligaments are and how they differ from one another.
- Tendons are strong cords of fibrous tissue that connect muscles to bones. They help initiate movement when your muscles contract.
- Ligaments connect bone to bone. They stabilize joints and help prevent excessive motion
Common Causes of Tears:
Tendon and ligament tears usually happen in one of two ways:
- Acute injuries – These occur suddenly due to trauma, such as a fall, twist, or impact
- Chronic overuse – Repetitive strain can lead to weakening over time, setting the stage for a tear (Ie, rotator cuff tendon tears from years of overhead motions).
Other contributing factors include: Inadequate warm-up before physical activity, poor conditioning or flexibility, prior injuries to the area, and older age.
Diagnosing a Tear:
To confirm if a tendon or ligament tear is present, a physical examination is performed. Imaging, such as an MRI or Ultrasound, is also commonly used to assess the severity of the tear. Additionally, X-rays are routinely completed to rule out any bone fractures. A proper diagnosis helps determine whether surgery is needed or if conservative treatment will work.
Grades of Tears:
Tendon and ligament tears are commonly classified into three grades, based on the severity of the injury.
- A Grade I tear is mild and involves stretching or microscopic tearing of fibers, resulting in slight pain and swelling but no significant loss of function.
- A Grade II tear is moderate, with partial tearing of the tissue, leading to more noticeable pain, swelling, bruising, and some joint instability or weakness.
- A Grade III tear is the most severe. This is a complete rupture of the tendon or ligament, often accompanied by a popping sensation, immediate loss of function, and significant swelling. Grade III injuries may involve a surgical consult.
Signs and Symptoms of a Tear
Symptoms may vary depending on the location and severity, but common signs include:
- Sharp pain at the time of injury, with accompanying swelling and potential bruising
- Loss of strength or range of motion, with potential joint instability thereafter
- A popping or snapping sound (especially common with ACL or Achilles tears)
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery times for tendon and ligament tears vary depending on the severity, location, and whether it was surgically repaired. Nonetheless, if your tear is treated conservatively or surgically, physical therapy is vital to returning you to full function by restoring range of motion, rebuilding strength, and preventing further injury.
Conclusion:
Tendon and ligament tears are painful, but with early diagnosis and appropriate care, most people recover fully. If you suspect a tear, don’t ignore the pain; come consult with one of the physiotherapists at Kamloops Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre. The sooner you address it, the better your chances of a full recovery.
This blog post was written by physiotherapist Jacob Coelho. To book an appointment with Jacob or one of our other experienced therapists, call 250-314-0788 or book online HERE.