Energy-Based Failure Criterion in a Structural Model for Ligaments

Ligaments are bands of fibrous tissues that transmit loads between bones and support internal organs. Their main function is to guide and restrain joints’ motion in order to maintain their stability. Injuries to ligaments such as sprains are among the most common orthopedic injuries. The medical treatment varies with the severity of injury from the simple RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) rule to graft implantation. The choice between conservative treatment with no repair and surgical treatment with repair of the torn ligaments remains controversial among orthopedics.