LIGAMENT INJURY

Ligaments (thin bands of connective tissue) stabilize your joints and help you move them smoothly. Sports, accidents, and injuries can damage ligaments. These injuries are sprains, strains, jams, tears, over-stretching, and dislocations. The most common ligament injuries occur in your hands at the middle joint of the fingers and at the webbing of the thumb. Sometimes, the injuries are mild and require little treatment, but more severe injuries require immediate medical attention and ongoing treatment to reduce the risk of long-term problems.

SYMPTOMS OF LIGAMENT INJURIES

• You have pain and swelling
  

• It hurts when you move
  

• You have difficultly moving
  

• Your joint is stiff and unstable
  

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT A LIGAMENT INJURY?

If you experience pain for more than a few days, you should consult with your health care provider who can rule out a serious injury. Applying ice and taking anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen can help with the pain and swelling. Wearing a splint or brace to reduce pain and swelling. Resting and avoiding activities that make it feel worse can also be helpful.

SPLINTS AND BRACES THAT CAN HELP