Does an anterior Talofibular ligament tear require surgery?

If you have suffered a grade 3 ligament tear, you may initially be advised to try six weeks of conservative treatment before going down the surgery route. However, if this has no effect and you still have considerable pain and joint instability, surgical reconstruction of the ligament will be advised.

What is the recovery time for anterior Talofibular ligament surgery?

Many patients can return to work five to six weeks after their operation, even in cases where their job involves manual work or walking. At this point, you should also be able to resume low impact sporting activities, but should refrain from higher impact exercise until at least ten to twelve weeks post-surgery.

What is anterior Talofibular?

The anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) is part of the lateral collateral ligament complex of the ankle. Its role is to stabilize the talus. It is also the weakest of the lateral collateral ankle ligaments.

How do you treat anterior Talofibular ligament?

Rehabilitation Program Initial treatment of all grades of lateral ankle sprains consists of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), as well as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ice should be applied to the injured ankle for approximately 20 minutes, 3-4 times per day.

Can torn anterior talofibular ligament heal without surgery?

Complete tears of the main ligament (ATFL-anterior talofibular ligament) are usually accompanied by more pain, difficulty weightbearing, swelling and discoloration to the outside of the ankle. These ligament injuries require immobilization to allow the ligament to heal primarily.

How do you know if you need ankle ligament surgery?

You might need this surgery if one or more of the ligaments on the outside of your ankle has loosened or stretched. This leads to a condition called chronic ankle instability. It can cause chronic pain, repeated ankle sprains, and an ankle that often gives way when you walk or perform activities.

How soon can I return to work after ankle surgery?

Generally patients are able to return to desk work within the first 1-2 weeks after surgery although this depends on how the patient is feeling. If your work is labor intensive, you may be off for 6 weeks-3 months.

Can you walk with a torn ATFL?

Grade II sprains involve a partial tear of the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) and a full tear of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL). This degree of sprain limits the ability to walk, creates instability and causes local bruising and swelling.

How do you know if you tore your anterior talofibular ligament?

Signs and Symptoms6

Pain in lateral ankle or foot.
May posture in greater pronation to avoid plantarflexed/inversion moments.
Edema lateral ankle.
Pain with palpation of ATFL.
Possible inability to bear partial or full weight.
Guarded active/passive inversion range of motion (ROM)

How do you strengthen the anterior Talofibular ligament?

Strengthening Exercises Strong leg muscles help the ligaments hold the ankle together. Once you can stand, try placing your injured foot behind the other with your toes pointing forward. Keeping your heels down, slowly bend your back knee until you feel a heel stretch in the back leg.

Can a torn Atfl heal itself?

Even a complete ligament tear can heal without surgical repair if it is immobilized appropriately. A three-phase program guides treatment for all ankle sprains—from mild to severe: Phase 1 includes resting, protecting the ankle and reducing the swelling.

When does the anterior talofibular ligament get injured?

The anterior talofibular ligament (also known as ATFL) is the most commonly injured ligament when the ankle is sprained on its outside or lateral aspect.

How to diagnose anterior talo fibular ligament ( ATFL )?

Observation: Observe for gross abnormalities, edema, ecchymosis, and perform a neurovascular assessment. Palpation: Palpate for areas of tenderness over the ATFL as well as other lateral collateral ligaments. Check the dorsal pedal pulse, capillary refill, and sensation to light touch.

Which is ligament restricts the translation of the talus?

Disruption of anterior lateral ligament of the ankle May be acute or chronic The anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) restricts anterior translation of the talus The ATFL also restricts inversion and adduction at the subtalar joint

What do you need to know about the talar tilt test?

Talar Tilt Test: This test is primarily performed to determine the integrity of the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), however, can also give valuable information about the ATFL. The test is performed with the ankle held in neutral position while the talus is tilted into adduction and abduction.