News & Advice

What Are Ligament Injuries, and Why Do They Heal Slowly?

Ligaments are tough bands of connective tissue that link bones together, stabilising your joints. Unlike muscles, which have a rich blood supply, ligaments have very limited circulation. This means they receive fewer nutrients and oxygen — both essential for healing.

Injuries to ligaments are graded by severity:

Grade 1: Mild overstretching — typically heals in 1–2 weeks.
Grade 2: Partial tear — may take 6–10 weeks.
Grade 3: Complete rupture — often requires surgery and months of rehab.

Even after healing, ligaments rarely return to their original strength, leaving the joint more vulnerable to future injury.

The Hidden Dangers of Feeling “Fine” Too Soon

One of the biggest traps we see is people returning to sport or activity too early. The swelling subsides, the pain fades — but the ligament isn’t fully healed. This can lead to:

Re-injury: A minor sprain can escalate into a full tear if stressed too soon.
Compensatory injuries: You might unconsciously shift weight or movement patterns, leading to strain in other areas.
Chronic instability: Repeated sprains can weaken the joint long-term, increasing the risk of arthritis or permanent instability.

Our Advice: How to Support Your Recovery

Here’s what we recommend to help your ligament heal properly — and safely:

1. Follow the P.R.I.C.E. Protocol

Protection: Use braces or supports if advised.
Rest: Avoid aggravating activities.
Ice: Apply cold packs for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling.
Compression: Use bandages or sleeves to support the joint.
Elevation: Raise the injured area above heart level when possible.

2. Don’t Skip Rehab: Physiotherapy is essential — not just for healing, but for retraining balance, strength, and joint control. Ligaments rely on surrounding muscles to compensate for lost stability.

3. Respect the Timeline: Even if you feel better, your ligament may still be vulnerable. Stick to your rehab plan, and don’t rush back into high-impact activities.

4. Listen to Your Body: Persistent swelling, pain, or instability are signs you’re not ready yet. If in doubt, get assessed — it’s better to be cautious than sidelined for months.

Ligament injuries demand patience and care. While it’s tempting to “push through” once the pain eases, doing so can undo weeks of progress. If you’re unsure whether you’re ready to return to activity , or if you’re stuck in a cycle of re-injury, we’re here to help. You can reach out to us at any time for FREE advice using our Ask A Physio service, here.

At Physiofusion, our team can assess your recovery, guide your rehab, and help you return to movement safely and confidently.