Ligaments are strong and flexible fibers of tissue that connects to the bones. They become inflamed due to injury such as tearing of the ligament due to sprain. When this happens, the tissues found around the affected ligament turn red, swell, painful and difficult to move. The common cause of inflamed ligament is plantar fasciitis or inflammation of the ligament that spreads to the foot and causes severe pain in the sole and heel of the foot.
Treatment and home remedies
- For mild injuries, allow the foot rest and avoid physical activities while the ligament is still inflamed.
- Elevate the foot just above the level of the body when lying down.
- Apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetable to the affected area in order to minimize the swelling. Freeze a bottle filled with three quarts of water and when already frozen, roll it along the contours of the foot to help in relieve the pain. Place a paper towel or a thin fabric around the foot when applying an ice pack in order to prevent frost burn.
- Place a compression bandage on a torn ligament in order to minimize pain and swelling. Apply even pressure when using an elastic bandage to wrap the mid-calf down to the toes. Make sure that the bandage is tight, but should not stop the circulation of blood.
- Stabilize the joint using a gauze bandage to maintain compression on the injury and minimize pain caused by movements. It will reduce pressure on the injured ligament and prevents painful unexpected movement. When the joints are not stabilized, it can be jostled or can be moved accidentally which can cause severe pain when the ligament is torn.
- Take over-the counter pain medications in order to minimize swelling of the injured ligaments such as ibuprofen to help minimize pain and swelling.
Additional measures
- If there is significant damage to the ligament, seek medical help immediately.
- Perform exercises for the calf, ankle and foot to relieve the tension on the ligaments of the foot. By doing these stretches, it will improve flexibility, strength and blood circulation. Stretching increases the blood supply and brings fresh nutrients to the area and promotes rapid healing.
- Pronation or the inward roll of the foot when walking is a common cause of plantar fasciitis and inflammation of the ligaments of the foot. Those who have flat and low arches experiences episodes of ligament pain and you can avoid these by wearing supportive shoes.
If you will enroll in a first aid class in your area today, you can readily manage this type of injury.
Preventing inflamed ligament of the foot
Protect the foot ligaments against injury or inflammation. Wear shoes when running or playing sports and make sure they are in proper size with good and functional padding for the soles, ridges and heels.
Pay attention to any discomfort in any part of the foot, especially if it persists longer than a few minutes. If the individual continues to run and apply unnecessary pressure to the feet and if they are injured, this will cause permanent damage to the ligaments.
FACT CHECK
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/foot-pain/