Closed joint injury Discussion
A closed joint injury may result in a variety of problems. Contusion
(bruising) in the area of moving structures may produce prolonged stiffness
and difficulty with normal use - even if no mechanical injury of the joint
has occurred. Sudden bending or twisting forces may partially tear the
ligament tissues that attach bones to each other, referred to as a sprain
or strain. Depending on the degree of tearing, there may be persistent
pain, soreness, stiffness, thickening of the joint or instability.
Treatment options include antiinflammatory medication, therapy, limited
immobilization or local cortisone injection. Complete tears with joint
instability may need surgical reconstruction of the ligaments. With any
significant injury, risks include stiffness, joint contractures, persistent
soreness, instability, weakness and later degenerative arthritis.
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