Ligaments

Authors

Affiliations

Nate Yomogida, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.S. in Kinesiology

Chloë Kerstein, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.A. in Neuroscience

Histology

• More Type I Collagen than Elastin
• Low/moderate number of GAGs

Mechanical Properties

• Can vary depending on ligament.
• Stiffer for joint protection.
• Fiber bundles oriented in multiple directions to withstand multi‐directional loads.
• Blood supply varies based on ligament.

Remodeling

• Reduced stress (immobilization):
  • Decreased CSA
  • Decreased stiffness
  • Decreased strength
• Increased stress (exercise): healthy levels
  • Increased CSA
  • Increased stiffness
  • Increased strength

Injury

• Results in instability
• Many people unable to attenuate JRFs
• Injury/degeneration of other periarticular structures

Healing

Healing depends on extent of injury, blood supply and angiogenesis.

Treatment

• Natural history
• Repair