Torn Ligaments

What is a torn ligament?

Ligaments are connective tissues that connect bone to bone. Ligaments can be damaged, including stretched (sprained) or torn. When the ligament is sprained, your child is at higher risk for further injury.

Learn more about anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears >

What causes a torn ligament?

If your child has a torn ligament, it may have been caused by:

• Changing direction rapidly.
• Landing from a jump incorrectly.
• Direct contact or collision, such as a tackle.

What are symptoms of a torn ligament?

If your child has a torn ligament, he or she may experience:

• Swelling.
• Instability.
• Loss of range of motion.
• Tenderness along the joint.
• Discomfort with normal activities.

Why choose Stanford Medicine Children’s Health to treat your child’s torn ligament?

Our doctors treat kids and teens exclusively, so we’re able to factor your child’s future growth into our care plan and help your child get back to sports stronger than ever.