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.
Do torn ligaments fix themselves?
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.
What is the best treatment for torn ligaments?
- Rest.
- Ice pack application (to reduce swelling that happens within hours of the injury)
- Compression (from an elastic bandage or brace)
- Elevation.
- Pain relievers.
How long does it take for torn ligaments to heal?
Mild ligament sprains can take from two to four weeks to heal, and moderate sprains may take more than 10 weeks. The healing time increases from six months to a year if surgery is needed.4 nov 2021
Can torn ligament heal by itself?
Grade 1 and grade 2 ligament injuries can heal themselves. But they will take time. They need proper care and doctor's supervision for better and quick healing. However, grade 3 injury – which has a complete tear of the ligament – will require surgical treatment.19 may 2020
What happens if you don't fix torn ligaments?
If left untreated, eventually it can result in other foot and leg problems, such as inflammation and pain in the ligaments in the soles of your foot (plantar faciitis), tendinitis in other parts of your foot, shin splints, pain in your ankles, knees and hips and, in severe cases, arthritis in your foot.11 may 2008
How do you repair a torn ligament?
In some cases, ligaments can be tightened and strengthened again by placing them back onto the bone in their anatomic position, possibly using a small anchor to attach the ligaments into the bone. When the ligaments are too weakened or destroyed to repair, your doctor may recommend ligament reconstruction.
What happens if a torn ligament is not repaired?
Without surgery, the joint remains unstable, painful, and requires continuous care to restore some range of motion. Athletes, in particular, should consider surgery to speed up the recovery process. Surgery may also work with lesser injuries, like a grade 2 tear.
Can a torn ligament never heal?
The process can take months to resolve itself, and despite advances in therapeutics, many ligaments do not regain their normal tensile strength. This can now turn into a “nagging,” injury and may turn to itself into something that will require: Anti-inflammatories. More rest.
Can ligaments be permanently damaged?
Simply stated, damaged soft tissues, such as ligaments and tendons of all joints, never heal, they wound repair with permanent, relatively unstable tissue.
Can a torn ligament heal over time?
While a torn ligament can heal on its own over time, it is best to seek out medical attention to ensure that the affected area heals correctly without a lot of excessive scarring.