Collateral ligaments are located on which joints, and what is a common consequence of immobilization?

Collateral ligaments are located on which joints, and what is a common consequence of immobilization?

• A. Located on the sides of IP joints; common cause of IP flexion contractures post surgery or edema/trauma
• B. Located on the sides of IP joints; cause of hyperextension
• C. Located on the sides of knee joints; cause of ACL injuries
• D. Located on the sides of wrist joints; cause of carpal tunnel

Answer: (A)

Collateral ligaments run along the sides of the finger interphalangeal joints, providing lateral stability and helping keep the joints aligned during motion. Because they are on the sides of these joints, immobilization after surgery or edema/trauma often leads to flexion contractures at the IP joints—the soft tissues and ligaments shorten and form adhesions, making it hard to straighten the finger. The other options misplace the ligaments (knees or wrists) and describe outcomes that don’t align with the typical effects of immobilizing IP joints, such as ACL injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Collateral ligaments run along the sides of the finger interphalangeal joints, providing lateral stability and helping keep the joints aligned during motion. Because they are on the sides of these joints, immobilization after surgery or edema/trauma often leads to flexion contractures at the IP joints—the soft tissues and ligaments shorten and form adhesions, making it hard to straighten the finger. The other options misplace the ligaments (knees or wrists) and describe outcomes that don’t align with the typical effects of immobilizing IP joints, such as ACL injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome.