Ligament Pain: Complete Guide

A ligament injury affects a ligament, a strong band of tissue that connects bones. It can occur when you twist your ankle on uneven ground or when you injure your knee while playing sports. The pain can be severe. The evaluation determines the nature of the injury and looks for signs that require urgent care.

Recovery depends on the injured ligament, other injuries, joint stability, and the activities to be resumed. Follow-up evaluations also assess pain, range of motion, and strength. A review of nine studies on lateral ankle sprains found certain associations between these factors and recovery. However, the data do not support recommending a single initial factor as a reliable predictor on its own¹.

Physical therapy can help restore movement and activity following various ligament injuries. It begins with an evaluation to identify injuries that require immediate medical attention. For ankle sprains, a review of 46 studies supports early resumption of movement, exercises, and certain manual techniques to address pain, swelling, and functional capacity². For an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear of the knee, rehabilitation—that is, a program to restore function—may precede potential surgery. Three trials found no clinically significant difference in knee function reported by participants between this strategy and early surgery. The certainty of this conclusion remains low to very low³. These same results do not automatically apply to all ligaments. The choice depends on the injury, goals, and preferences. See our comprehensive guide on physical therapy and its therapeutic approaches.

What is a ligament and what is its role in joint stability?

A ligament connects bones to one another and helps stabilize their joint by limiting excessive movement. This band of fibrous tissue is distinct from a tendon, which connects a muscle to a bone⁴. Ligaments consist mainly of type I collagen, a protein that forms strong fibers⁵. Muscles and the shape of the bones also contribute to stability.

Collagen fibers are organized into bundles that enable the ligament to support and transmit forces⁶. Ligament cells respond to stress: a biology review describes changes in fiber organization when loads are appropriate, insufficient, or excessive⁵. These mechanisms explain the ligament’s ability to adapt, but they alone do not determine the correct number of repetitions for an injured person⁷.

The tendon transmits force from the muscle to the bone⁴. The junction between the muscle and its tendon ensures this transmission when the muscle contracts⁸. The ligament, on the other hand, guides and limits movement between bones.

The body has many ligaments that are adapted to the various joints and their movements.

How does a ligament sprain occur?

A sprain occurs when a force stretches or tears a ligament beyond its limit. A twist, a fall, or an impact can cause this injury. In 445 videos of ankle injuries in indoor and outdoor sports, the mechanisms involved either contact or non-contact movements. Landing on another player’s foot was common; the foot typically twisted inward⁹. Other studies distinguish between a lateral sprain and an injury to the syndesmosis—the set of ligaments that connect the two bones of the leg above the ankle¹⁰. These observations regarding the ankle do not describe all sprains.

The examination checks for tender ligaments and assesses how the joint moves and bears weight. It also looks for a fracture or other related injury. Pain and swelling may limit the initial examination; a re-evaluation is sometimes necessary¹¹.

The injury history helps in selecting the appropriate tests. However, it is not sufficient on its own to determine which ligament is affected or when the patient can resume activities.

The reported mechanism—including that associated with a muscle injury—can guide the evaluation but cannot, on its own, identify the affected tissue or determine the treatment or timeline.

What are the three grades of sprains and what do they mean for your recovery?

Grades I, II, and III describe, respectively, a mild injury, a partial tear, and a complete tear of a ligament. For the ankle, the classification takes into account the symptoms and difficulties in using the joint¹². A more severe injury often requires greater protection and rehabilitation, but the grade does not determine a specific recovery date.

The criteria vary depending on the ligament and the system used. In a study of ankle injuries in adult athletes, a four-grade classification based on magnetic resonance imaging—a test that shows ligaments, among other things—yielded varying results depending on the evaluator and the ligament¹³. Recovery is therefore monitored using several parameters, such as weight-bearing, range of motion, strength, and stability. The review on acute lateral ankle sprains does not recommend any single initial factor as a reliable predictor on its own¹.

Grade I Sprain: Mild stretch

A Grade I sprain involves stretching and minor damage to the fibers. In the ankle classification system, examination usually reveals no instability¹¹.

What you might feel: Pain is usually mild, with little swelling, and the person can often bear weight on the foot. Development: Progress depends on the ligament involved, the severity of the injury, the treatment, and the clinical criteria used.

Grade II Sprain: Partial tear

A Grade II sprain involves a partial tear of the ligament. In the ankle, the ligament may allow for more movement, while still providing resistance when the professional tests the joint¹¹.

What you might feel: Often moderate pain and swelling, sometimes bruising under the skin, along with difficulty bearing weight or a feeling that the joint is giving way. Development: Recovery is monitored in terms of mobility, stability, strength, key activities, and post-exercise response; the pace of recovery varies depending on the injury and the circumstances.

Grade III Sprain: Complete tear

A Grade III sprain involves a complete tear of one or more ligaments. In the ankle, instability is generally more pronounced. The examination also looks for associated injuries¹¹.

What you might feel: Often severe pain and swelling, significant bruising, and great difficulty bearing weight at first. The pain may subside even with a complete tear. In a study of 17 people with a recent anterior cruciate ligament tear, the pain had decreased by about half two weeks after the injury¹⁴. This knee test result does not serve as a guideline for all sprains. Development: The plan and progression are determined after evaluating the ligament, stability, associated injuries, the chosen treatment, and the individual's goals.

How do ligaments heal and why is patience essential?

An injured ligament heals through an inflammatory response, the formation of repair tissue, and its gradual reorganization. This final stage may continue even after the pain has subsided, which is why a gradual return to activities is recommended¹⁵.

Inflammatory phase

Inflammation begins after an injury and helps clear away debris before tissue repair¹⁵. The area may swell, become warm, and feel more tender¹¹. These signs alone do not indicate the severity of the injury. Follow-up also takes into account movement, weight-bearing, and stability.

After a sprain, inflammation may accompany pain, swelling, and changes in function. If you are considering taking medication, check with a pharmacist or doctor to make sure it is appropriate for the injury, your health condition, and any other medications you are taking.

Production of the repair tissue: proliferation phase

Fibroblasts, cells that produce repair tissue, produce collagen, particularly types I and III¹⁶. The initial fibers are less well-organized than those in the intact ligament. In studies of knee ligaments, scar tissue may remain different from and less resistant than the original tissue⁷. A detailed study of fiber organization used severed ligaments from rats. It helps explain the repair process but does not directly measure the healing time for a human sprain¹⁶.

During recovery, the ligament needs proper protection. A gradual return to movement and weight-bearing can be planned based on pain, swelling, stability, and the activities that are possible. The healthcare professional will adjust the exercises if symptoms worsen or if the joint becomes less stable. Follow any prescribed immobilization instructions before resuming movement.

Remodeling Phase

Remodeling gradually reorganizes collagen fibers¹⁵. Research on ligament healing describes a process that can last for months, sometimes years, after a complete tear¹⁶. This biological timeframe does not automatically correspond to the time it takes to walk or resume sports. These activities require preparation in terms of stability, strength, and the necessary movements.

Recovery time varies depending on the ligament, stability, associated injuries, treatment, and intended activities. Progress is reassessed based on the individual’s function and circumstances, with no set timeline.⁷

The resumption of activities is based on an assessment of the individual’s function, stability, intended tasks, and context. Pain is interpreted in conjunction with these other factors, rather than in isolation.

What are the most common sprains by body region?

Sprains often affect the ankle, knee, wrist, and thumb. A lateral sprain is the most common type of ankle sprain, according to a review of 181 studies¹⁷. Injuries can also involve the shoulder or the ligaments of the neck. The following descriptions illustrate the mechanisms of these injuries; they are not a substitute for a physical examination.

The Ankle: The Most Common Sprain

A lateral ankle sprain affects the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle, often when the foot suddenly twists inward. The anterior talofibular ligament—which connects the talus, a bone in the foot, to the fibula, the bone on the outer side of the leg—is often affected¹⁸. A review of 181 longitudinal studies found lateral sprains to be more common than medial sprains or those above the ankle¹⁷. The incidence varies depending on age, sex, sport, and the method used to count injuries.

After a lateral ankle sprain, the evaluation takes into account the affected structures, stability, and associated injuries. The reported mechanism of injury can guide this examination but does not, on its own, determine which tissues are affected.

Recovery from an ankle sprain varies depending on the ligament involved, the ankle's stability, any associated injuries, the treatment, and the activities you plan to resume. To learn more, check out our comprehensive guide to ankle sprains.

The Knee: Cruciate and Collateral Ligaments

The knee has four main ligaments: two cruciate ligaments, located inside the knee, and two collateral ligaments, located on either side of the knee¹⁹. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) limits the forward movement of the tibia, the main bone of the lower leg, and helps control rotation. The posterior cruciate ligament limits the backward movement of the tibia. The collateral ligaments support the sides of the knee. These roles are described in the anatomy guide published by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

An ACL injury can occur during a rapid change of direction, a sudden stop, landing from a jump, or contact. The examination assesses knee stability and checks for other injuries. These mechanisms are described in the AAOS guide on ACL injuries.

An injury to the medial collateral ligament affects the inner side of the knee. It can result from a blow to the outer side of the knee or a sudden change in direction. Many isolated, minor injuries can be treated with bracing and physical therapy. Associated injuries may change this approach, according to the AAOS guide on collateral ligaments. See also our guide on physical therapy for knee pain.

The Wrist and Thumb

A skier’s thumb often comes into contact with the ulnar collateral ligament, on the side of the thumb closest to the index finger. A fall that forces the thumb backward and away from the hand can injure this ligament. The grip between the thumb and index finger may become painful or less secure. Pain or instability following this injury warrants an examination, as explained in the AAOS guide on thumb sprains. See our guide on skier’s thumb.

A wrist sprain can occur when you fall onto your outstretched hand. It affects the ligaments that hold the bones of the wrist together. Persistent pain should be evaluated, even if there is little swelling: a fracture can mimic a sprain, according to the AAOS guide on wrist sprains. See our guide on wrist and hand pain.

The Shoulder

An acromioclavicular sprain affects the ligaments that support the joint between the collarbone and the top of the shoulder blade. It often results from a direct fall onto the shoulder. Pain at the top of the shoulder or a visible lump warrants an examination. The AAOS guide on this injury describes these structures. See also our guide on shoulder pain.

Significant deformity may indicate damage to multiple ligaments. A physical exam and imaging tests help determine the severity before deciding on a treatment plan. Our guide on acromioclavicular sprains explains this injury.

The Spine

Whiplash occurs as a result of a sudden acceleration and deceleration of the neck, such as in a car accident²⁰. It can affect several types of tissue, including ligaments. A review of 53 studies describes a variety of symptoms and limitations, which sometimes extend beyond neck pain²¹.

A review of possible lesions distinguishes the small joints at the back of the vertebrae—for which specialized diagnostic tests exist—from other tissues whose role in persistent symptoms remains more difficult to establish²². An examination looks for signs of nerve damage or injury that require prompt medical evaluation. See our comprehensive guide to neck pain.

How can you tell the difference between ligament pain and other types of pain?

The professional identifies possible causes of pain by considering the patient’s account of the injury, its location, range of motion, and joint tests. Pain near a ligament does not, by itself, prove that the ligament is injured. Muscles, tendons, and the joint may also be affected during the same incident.

Guidelines for Evaluating Ligament Pain

Circumstances at the time of the injury. A twist, a fall, or an impact can injure a ligament. A muscle pain It can also occur suddenly. A study of 445 videos of ankle injuries describes direct and indirect contact, as well as non-contact movements.⁹. It does not compare muscle and ligament injuries. Location of the pain. At the ankle, tenderness in front of or below the outer bony prominence may indicate a problem with the lateral ligaments. The healthcare professional also palpates the bones and other tissues to check for associated injuries.¹¹. Significant or rapid swelling. Swelling following an injury warrants evaluation, especially if it is accompanied by an inability to use the limb, deformity, or other concerning signs. Feeling of instability. A sensation that the joint feels loose or unstable can guide the examination, although it does not, on its own, confirm a ligament injury. Pain with certain movements. The professional compares the movements you make with those they assist you with. They also check muscle strength and ligament stability. These tests are combined with your medical history and other findings.

Comparison with Muscle Pain

Muscle pain may be accompanied by weakness, cramps, or swelling after physical exertion or an injury. A muscle strain affects muscle fibers and may also involve the junction with the tendon. The AAOS descriptions show that several symptoms resemble those of a sprain.

Pain that occurs when the muscle contracts or stretches helps guide the examination. However, pain in the same location may originate from another tissue. The evaluation therefore also takes into account the intensity and progression of the pain.

Comparison with Joint Pain

Joint pain may follow an injury or be associated with a long-term condition, such as osteoarthritis. Pain while walking, stiffness after a period of inactivity, and swelling guide the evaluation. Some problems appear suddenly, while others develop gradually. The British National Health Service (NHS) page on joint pain describes these differences. Joint crepitus alone is not sufficient to make a diagnosis.

When should you seek medical attention for a ligament injury?

A suspected ligament injury requires urgent evaluation if the joint is misshapen, if you can no longer put weight on it, if the swelling increases very quickly, or if the limb becomes numb, pale, or cold. These signs may accompany a fracture, a dislocation (i.e., a displacement of the joint), or damage to a nerve or blood vessels. According to the NHS’s guidance on joint pain, an inability to walk and a dislocated joint require this evaluation even without a recent injury. Call 911 if you cannot move safely.

Emergency signs: consult immediately

After an ankle or foot injury, a healthcare professional may use the Ottawa Rules to determine whether an X-ray is necessary. These rules take into account the location of the pain, specific bony landmarks, and the ability to take four steps²³. They do not replace an urgent evaluation when signs of the condition are present.

Signs requiring prompt consultation

After an injury, severe or worsening pain, significant swelling, or great difficulty moving requires prompt medical attention. A high fever or chills also require prompt medical attention. You should also see a doctor if the joint is painful, swollen, and warm, or if the pain is accompanied by general malaise. These signs are listed on the NHS pages about sprains and joint pain. Persistent instability or a new sprain also warrants an appointment within the next few days.

When waiting is reasonable

Home care measures may be appropriate if the pain remains mild to moderate, if you can move and bear weight on the affected area, if the swelling is mild, and if your symptoms are improving. This option does not apply to the urgent signs described above. Have persistent pain, instability, loss of function, or an uncertain diagnosis evaluated. For the wrist and thumb, even a minor injury should be evaluated if it does not improve quickly.

How can a ligament sprain be treated effectively?

Treatment for a sprain involves a combination of appropriate protection, permitted movements, and a gradual return to activity following an assessment of the injury. A splint or immobilization may be necessary, depending on the ligament and the stability of the joint. The treatment plan also takes into account any associated injuries, your goals, and how you respond to activities.

Phase 1: Protection and Symptom Management

Protection and resumption of movement. A splint, a boot, or crutches can protect the injury if indicated. For some severe sprains, the doctor will prescribe immobilization before starting exercises. For an ankle sprain that allows weight-bearing, walking is resumed gradually with the recommended support. Follow the specific instructions for your ligament. Comfort measures. A cold pack wrapped in a cloth may provide temporary relief. Gentle compression and elevating the limb may also be recommended. Compression should not cause numbness or change the color of the limb. These measures should be used in conjunction with proper protection and a gradual return to activities; they are not a substitute for the necessary treatment. Medication. If you are considering a medication for pain, check with a pharmacist or doctor to make sure it is appropriate for your health condition, your other medications, and the injury being treated.

In a trial involving a recent ankle sprain, a semirigid splint resulted in greater improvement in function than an elastic bandage after ten days and one month. The study found no clear difference in pain or swelling. Fifty people were randomly assigned, and 35 completed the follow-up²⁴. This finding applies to recent sprains, not to established chronic instability.

Phase 2: Regaining Mobility and Beginning Strength Training

The exercises are designed to restore useful movements and then strength. The physical therapist introduces gentle mobility exercises once the injury allows for movement. For the ankle, this may begin with small movements of the foot; another injury may require a longer period of protection.

In a trial involving 101 people with a recent Grade I or II ankle sprain, participants were randomly assigned to two groups. Adding early exercise to the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) improved ankle function after one and two weeks. The study found no clear difference in pain or swelling²⁵. This result does not define the treatment protocol for another ligament.

The program may then include balance and coordination exercises. After an ankle sprain, standing on one leg near a stable support is an example of a possible exercise once you’re allowed to use a support. The physical therapist will adjust the difficulty to match your abilities.

Phase 3: Strengthening and Return to Function

Strength training prepares your body for the physical demands of your activities. For the ankle, this may include standing on tiptoes or using elastic resistance, depending on the movements you’re able to perform. The program builds up your strength, stability, and responsiveness to exertion.

We’ll prepare for your return to activity by focusing on the movements that are truly necessary: walking, running, jumping, or changing direction, depending on your goals. This decision is based on relevant tests, your confidence, and how you feel after training. We’ll discuss it with you.

When is surgery necessary?

Surgery may be recommended for certain unstable tears, certain associated injuries, or instability that persists despite appropriate rehabilitation. It is not necessary for all complete tears. For example, most isolated lateral ankle sprains can be treated without surgery, whereas certain tears of the thumb or wrist require repair.

For anterior cruciate ligament tears, three trials involving a total of 320 participants showed no clinically significant difference in knee function as reported by the participants between early surgery and rehabilitation first, followed by surgery if necessary. The certainty of this result remains low to very low³. Instability, other injuries, activities, your preferences, and response to the program all influence the decision. This review does not demonstrate that one strategy is preferable for each sport individually.

How does physical therapy help with recovery from a ligament injury?

Physical therapy helps restore movement, strength, and the ability to perform daily activities after a ligament injury through assessment, exercises, and personalized guidance. For the ankle, manual techniques may also be part of the treatment plan². The physical therapist monitors progress and adjusts the treatment plan.

Comprehensive assessment

Your physical therapist will ask you how the injury occurred and which activities are still difficult for you. He or she will assess your range of motion, stability, strength, and balance. The therapist will look for signs that require a medical evaluation and will work with you to set goals for the program.

Personalized exercise program

Your program focuses on the abilities you need to regain. After an ankle sprain, exercises can help restore foot mobility, strengthen the calf muscles, and improve balance. A sprain of the thumb, knee, or shoulder requires different exercises and sometimes a period of rest before you begin.

The physical therapist will modify an exercise if pain or swelling increases, or if the joint becomes less stable. As you progress, the resistance, number of repetitions, or difficulty of the movement may change. The goal remains to help you resume your activities, with the necessary protective measures in place.

Manual techniques

A manual therapy technique can help reduce pain or restore limited range of motion. The physical therapist gently guides the joint with their hands and then assesses the effect. For ankle sprains, reviews support certain manual therapy techniques with moderate evidence for pain, swelling, and functional ability². They supplement these with exercises as needed.

Education and prevention

Your physical therapist will explain the specific injury, which activities to adjust, what signs to watch for, and the criteria for progress. This will help you know what to try, what to change, and when to seek medical attention. No program can guarantee that you won’t suffer another sprain.

If your sprain is affecting your quality of life or if you want to speed up your recovery, our physical therapists can evaluate your condition. Visit our page on physical therapy services.

How can we prevent new sprains and manage persistent instability?

Balance exercises and a properly fitted brace can reduce the risk of new ankle sprains; persistent instability requires reevaluation. A brace is a supportive device; taping uses adhesive tape. A meta-analysis strongly supports the use of braces and moderately supports movement control exercises for reducing recurrences². Among athletes, a meta-analysis of six trials found a reduced risk with a brace compared to no brace, though it did not eliminate the risk entirely²⁶.

Some people experience long-term limitations. The review on the prognosis of lateral ankle sprains reports that approximately one in three people experience significant limitations related to pain, instability, or recurrent injuries when improvement plateaus between one and five years. This estimate is based on the studies cited in the context; it does not predict your specific outcome¹. An assessment of stability, strength, balance, and challenging activities then guides care²⁷.

Why does chronic instability develop?

Persistent instability may result from a ligament that allows too much play and less precise control of the joint. Muscle weakness, balance difficulties, or impaired perception of foot position may contribute to this. These factors can combine, as described in the review on chronic ankle instability²⁷.

The sensation of the ankle giving way and the limited range of motion observed during the exam are not exactly the same thing. The healthcare professional checks for both and looks for other possible problems before deciding on a course of treatment²⁷.

How can you reduce the risk of another sprain?

Complete your rehabilitation. Don't rely solely on the pain disappearing. Make sure you regain full strength, balance, and function before resuming your activities. Work on your balance and strength. After a sprained ankle, the program may include balancing on one leg and strengthening the calf. The difficulty level increases based on the movements permitted and the response to the exercises. Plan the steps involved in your activity. Running, jumping, and changing direction require a different progression than walking. The program focuses on the necessary movements and builds your confidence, without assuming that a muscle can replace a ligament. Use taping or a brace if needed. For high-risk activities (pivoting sports), taping or a brace can provide additional support. In athletes, a brace reduces the risk of a first injury and the risk of recurrence compared to not using a brace, with low certainty regarding the prevention of a first injury and moderate certainty regarding the prevention of recurrence²⁶. When it comes to flexible braces versus taping, the evidence is inconclusive: a non-randomized study found no clear difference in recurrence one year after a recent lateral sprain²⁸. The need for support may be reassessed during rehabilitation and when resuming sports.

Treatment for established chronic instability

Persistent instability requires an evaluation of the ankle and activities that cause difficulty. Treatment may include exercises, a brace, or a discussion of surgical options, depending on the results of the evaluation.

Surgery may be considered if the ankle remains unstable despite appropriate rehabilitation and if the ligaments show excessive laxity on examination. Surgical procedures can repair, reconstruct, or strengthen the ligament. A 2006 Cochrane review concluded that the quality of the trials was insufficient to recommend a specific procedure²⁹. A review published in 2025 compared ligament repair with ligament reinforcement using a suture strip across three trials involving 235 participants. The overall results did not show a clear difference, but some sports-related outcomes favored reinforcement, and one trial found a faster return to activities³⁰. The surgeon should explain the benefits, risks, and other options specific to your situation.

Frequently asked questions about ligament pain

Frequently asked questions about ligament pain include healing time, cold and heat therapy, walking, the need for treatment, distinguishing it from a fracture, and returning to sports.

How long does a sprain take to heal?

A mild sprain may improve within a few weeks, while a severe sprain may take several months. The NHS states that most sprains and muscle injuries improve after two weeks, though this does not mean a full recovery. The ligament, associated injuries, treatment, and the activities a person can resume account for these differences. Follow-up care is not based solely on the severity grade.

Should you use ice or heat for a sprain?

Cold can provide temporary relief when a cloth is placed between the skin and the cold pack. In the first few days of a swollen sprain, the NHS advises avoiding very hot baths and hot compresses. Heat can then be tried to help you relax if it feels comfortable. Stop if the skin becomes painful or if symptoms worsen.

Can a sprain heal on its own without treatment?

A mild sprain may sometimes improve with rest and home care, without the need for treatment at a clinic. However, severe or persistent pain, instability, or difficulty resuming your activities requires an evaluation. Some tears require a splint, immobilization, or surgery. Do not assume that a reduction in pain means that all the affected structures have healed.

Can I walk on a sprain?

Walking can be resumed gradually if the evaluation indicates that weight-bearing is permitted and if the injury allows it. Use the prescribed brace or crutches. Some injuries require that you temporarily avoid putting weight on the affected area. An inability to walk or bear weight requires urgent evaluation, even in the absence of a recent injury.

How can I tell if it's a sprain or a fracture?

A sprain and a fracture can both cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving following the same injury. A physical examination, followed by an X-ray when indicated, helps distinguish between the two. For the ankle and foot, the Ottawa Rules consider the location of pain, tenderness at specific bony landmarks, and the ability to take four steps²³.

In a review, 27 studies involving a total of 15,581 people were included in the analysis. These guidelines identified nearly all fractures, but could also result in a person without a fracture being referred for an X-ray. Using them could reduce unnecessary X-rays by 30 to 40 percent²³. They are used in conjunction with the examination and its guidelines. A normal X-ray does not rule out all fractures; if doubt persists, another image or a reevaluation may be necessary.

Can ligaments heal completely?

A ligament can regain useful function without fully regaining its pre-injury structure. Research on knee ligaments describes scar tissue that may remain less strong than the original tissue⁷. This observation does not determine your future ability. For lateral ankle sprains, the prognosis review lacks sufficient evidence to recommend a baseline factor as a reliable predictor on its own¹. Your activities, stability, and goals remain the guiding principles for follow-up care.

When can I return to sports after a sprain?

A return to sports becomes feasible once the necessary abilities have been regained and the professional confirms appropriate progress. The professional assesses movement, strength, balance, sport-specific movements, confidence, and recovery after training. Resuming a full training regimen before competition may be part of this progression. The ligament, associated injuries, and the sport itself influence these criteria; a time frame alone is not sufficient.

References

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