What is the difference between Tendons & Ligaments?
Tendons are a tough fibrous connective tissue that connect muscles to bones. They help with the control of movements and help absorb impact related to these movements. Ligaments are also a fibrous connective tissue; however, they support our organs and connect bones together to allow proper articulation of our joints and provide support and stability.
Both tendons and ligaments can be injured causing dysfunction and pain.
When a tendon is injured, it is called a tendinopathy. This can be an acute injury, where there is inflammation often due to strain or overuse, which is called Tendinitis. If the injury involves damage that results in disorganised fibres (tears) within the tendon the condition is called Tendinosis. This can occur with degeneration overuse and trauma. Tendon damage will impact the strength of the joint and its ability to perform it’s full range of motion.
Ligament damage can result in swelling and pain. Damage to a ligament can impact the stability of a joint. Ligament damage is graded:
Grade 1: microscopic ligament damage with local tenderness and no instability.
Grade 2: partial tear of the ligament with swelling, noticeable tenderness and mild instability.
Grade 3: severe sprain – complete rupture of a ligament with swelling and joint instability.
Whenever a ligament or tendon is damaged, it is important to apply R.I.C.E. – rest, ice, compression, and elevation to help reduce the initial inflammatory process that occurs. We also recommend treatment early in the healing process to assess joint stability and the impact of the injury on surrounding structures. Reducing compensatory postures, with early treatment, can help improve the healing time and reduce discomfort felt in other areas of the body.
