Both tendons and ligaments consist of bands of fibrous connective tissue that actively support your body’s joint structure, allowing for everyday function and mobility. While their physical composition is quite similar, there are various differences between these two soft tissues.
Most notably, tendons and ligaments are unique in that each connects a different part of the musculoskeletal system. Tendons attach bone to muscle allowing for movement, while ligaments connect bone to other bones providing stability to the joints they surround.
The collagen fiber composition of both tendons and ligaments is very flexible. However, ligaments tend to be more forgiving when pushed to the limit, meaning tendon injuries are more common.
Tendon vs Ligament Injuries
Tendons and ligaments are often likened to rubber bands. They can stretch quite a bit, but when pushed to their breaking point, they’ll easily hyper-extend, tear, or even snap completely, causing joint damage and tremendous pain.
These injuries are prevalent among athletes and those involved in physical labor but can happen to anyone, especially those advancing in age. Over time, the body’s fibrous tissues begin to stiffen, making them far more prone to trauma.
Here are a few of the most common injuries that affect Tendons and ligaments:
Common Tendon Injuries
- Tendonitis – commonly referred to as “tennis elbow” or “jumper’s knee” tendonitis is an irritation or inflammation of a tendon caused by repetitive motions or minor impacts. While tendonitis can occur anywhere in the body, the most common sites are the knees, wrists, and elbows.
- Ruptured Tendon– When put under extreme amounts of stress, a tendon can rupture or “snap,” causing excruciating pain and the inability to use the affected joint.
- Avulsion Fractures – This type of fracture is similar to a ruptured tendon, except rather than severing the tendon itself, an avulsion causes the tendon to separate from the bone it is attached to.
Common Ligament Injuries
- Sprains – When a ligament is forced to stretch past its normal range of motion, a sprain occurs. There are three levels (or grades) of ligament sprains ranging from minor pain and swelling to a complete tear rendering a joint immobile.
- Joint Dislocation– The sudden force that causes two bones to separate can have harsh effects on ligaments and other surrounding tissues of a joint. In severe cases (such as those often seen in auto accidents), the impact can be so strong that ligaments are entirely severed.
- Plantar Fasciitis – Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the ligaments that connect the heel bone to the toes, resulting in swelling and sharp pains along the bottom of the foot.
Premier Podiatric Care In Fresno, Visalia, and Porterville
If you’ve suffered a tendon or ligament injury and you’re wondering what to do next, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. At Canyon Oaks Foot and Ankle, our team of podiatric experts specializes in treating soft tissue trauma and is eager to get you back on your feet. For over 30 years, we have been proudly providing Fresno, Visalia, and Porterville residents with the highest quality podiatric care. Take the next step: Click here to schedule an appointment today!
