Do torn ligaments always require surgery to fix?

Question

I tore the ligament in my right knee/leg and the doctor said I MAY need surgery. I am curious as to know if torn ligaments can heal on their own if the area is not used stretenously for a while, or do you always need surgery to fix this injury?

Answer 1

There are many ligaments in the knee that can be torn. Which did you tear? The only way to find out non-invasively is thru MRI. Wondering how your doctor arrived at his conclusion. Yes, ligaments can heal on their own without surgery depending on the severity of the injury which is why you need the MRI.

Answer 2

I tore anterior ligaments when I sprained my ankle. At the time, I was taking the vitamin supplements "Relacore" and "Hyaluronic Acid". I wasn't taking the recommended dosages, just two of each every morning with breakfast. That helped with both the pain and the speed of healing. They were torn pretty bad as well and at my followup appointment, the doctor said I wouldn't need surgery and to stay off it for two more weeks. I was walking unaided (still wearing the brace) at the end of the second week since my fall. I was glad I was taking the supplements. I hated having to use crutches. The combination really helps with muscle soreness too. Having to be on crutches was hard on my arms. I didn't like the pain killers they prescribed either. Way too strong and nauseating. Maximum strength aspirin or Tylenol were all I needed. That and a heating pad every once in a while. Good luck and take care.

Answer 3

Get a steel hinged knee brace to take the stress off you knee. It will help it recover much faster.

A hospital supply store has them. They are about $60.00 It will make a tremendous difference. They Velcro above and below the knee to support the knee joint but take the weight off of it.

Plus take Ibuprofen for the inflammation and swelling. It is very helpful.

Good Luck.