Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) sprain is a common condition that affects people of all age groups. It is a type of knee injury that involves the tearing, stretching, or complete rupture of the LCL, which connects the femur to the tibia. When you experience an LCL sprain, it is not uncommon to feel pain and discomfort. However, some people might wonder if they will feel the pain while resting. In this blog post, we will discuss whether LCL sprain hurts when resting or not.
To answer the question of whether LCL sprain hurts when resting, it is essential to understand the nature of the injury. LCL sprain is caused by a sudden force that pushes the knee sideways, leading to damage or tearing of the ligament. The degree of pain experienced can vary depending on the severity of the injury. In mild cases, the pain might be barely noticeable, while in more severe cases, the pain can be excruciating.
When you rest your knee, the pressure and stress on the ligament are reduced, leading to a decrease in pain. However, this does not mean that the pain disappears entirely. It is even possible to experience constant LCL sprain pain. If you have an LCL sprain, you might still feel discomfort and pain while resting.
It is also important to note that resting alone cannot heal an LCL sprain entirely. Conservative treatment methods such as resting, icing, compression, and elevation (RICE) can help relieve pain and inflammation. However, for an LCL sprain to heal completely, you need to see a healthcare provider for evaluation and appropriate treatment. A healthcare provider might recommend physiotherapy, chiropractic care, or even surgery if necessary.
Physiotherapy is an effective treatment method for LCL sprain. A physiotherapist can help you perform exercises that strengthen the knee muscles and improve flexibility. It’s important to note that even though it may be hard to continue exercise, inactivity can negatively impact LCL sprains, so you should slowly incorporate exercise. They can also use manual techniques to relieve pain and improve the range of motion. Chiropractic care can also be beneficial for LCL sprains. A chiropractor can perform adjustments that align the joints and reduce stress on the knee.
In conclusion, LCL sprain can still be painful while resting, even though the pain might be lower compared to when you are active. Rest alone cannot heal an LCL sprain entirely, and it is essential to seek proper medical attention from a healthcare provider. Both physiotherapy and chiropractic care are effective treatment options for LCL sprain as they can help relieve pain and promote healing. If you experience any knee pain or discomfort, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Early intervention can help prevent further damage and lead to a faster recovery.
