People injure ligaments sometimes without suspecting that they have done it. This is because there is a delay between the onset of tear or sprain and the inflammatory process being evident in many cases.
Once a ligament tear occurs, it is fairly common knowledge to use the RICE paradigm: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. All are not always possible, but rest and ice are applicable in most cases.
It is important to note that injury to the spine in any region is an indication of tearing in the Vertebral ligaments, the joint capsules of the Spine, and bulging of the Intervertebral disc due to an alignment problem relative to the misaligned and Subluxated Vertebral segment and it’s immediate neighbors.
This is why heat is not indicated, despite the fact that it may “feel good” as it increases the inflammation (flame) in the offended area.
What has puzzled me in 43 years of practice is the concept of stretching the area of ligament tear and sprain. The essence of this kind of tissue is relatively avascular (lacks circulation) and as such, takes longer to mend. If you sprained your ankle, would you use it extra or stretch it before it has healed? Of course not! Yet many health care providers these days mistakenly attempt to utilize a region through stretching and exercise before it has mended properly.
I find this occurs far too often, particularly in Medical Rehab circles. I have to pick up the pieces after this and it significantly extends recuperation time.
So remember: When dealing with a ligament injury, sprain, or Vertebral Subluxation, use ice, rest, and avoid stretching the area that has been offended.