Definition
Distortion is a lesion that involves the capsule and ligaments of a joint.
This condition is caused by indirect trauma: the distortion is determined when a force forces the affected part to perform a sudden and abrupt movement, beyond the physiological limits, with a lever or torsion mechanism.
The displacement of the joint towards an "unnatural" direction therefore causes a temporary and partial loss of contact between the articular heads, with or without laceration of the ligaments (note: if the loss of the relations between the capsuloligamentous structures is permanent yes speaks of dislocation).
The distortion mainly affects the knee, ankle, instep, wrist, elbow and fingers. The disorder can occur in people of all ages, although it is more frequent in those who practice sports (eg volleyball, basketball, football and running).
Risk factors include lack of training and insufficient muscle tone.
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Articolar pains
- Bruising
- Edema
- haemarthrosis
- Joint swelling
- Joint hypermobility
- Joint stiffness
- Articular Pouring
Further indications
The distortion manifests itself with an acute and continuous pain at the level of the affected joint, which is accentuated with movement and with a pressure at the ligaments or their insertions on the bone.
Other symptoms include functional limitation and swelling, which gradually increase after the trauma. In case of distortion, hematomas and joint effusion may also appear.
In the most severe cases, a partial laceration of the ligaments or a detachment of these from their insertion sites can occur, with joint instability.
The lesion must be evaluated with an X-ray or ultrasound scan to identify damage to the ligaments and exclude the presence of a fracture.
Rarely, the patient is subjected to magnetic resonance.
When incurring a distortion, it is useful to apply ice on the painful part (wrapping it in a towel or cloth to protect the skin) and keep the joint at rest for 2-3 days, possibly in a raised position to reduce swelling. If the trauma is recent, the doctor may also recommend early immobilization, with an elastic compressive bandage in order to minimize swelling or a brace to keep the joint in axis.
