Factors influencing the rate of healing in the stages of proliferation and remodelling

• Severity of initial trauma: A severe second degree ligament sprain of the lateral ligament complex of the ankle will have a more prolonged proliferation and remodelling period than a first degree ligament sprain affecting the same structure.

• Early Management: When the necessary foundations have been set in place (e.g. protection, rest of tissues etc) for proliferation and repair can potentially reduce onset of chronic inflammation.

• Tissue Vascularity: e.g. skeletal muscle = highly vascular = more potential for repair than a a ligament = avascular

• Age: Younger people are quicker to heal than older

• Nutrition: e.g. protein deficiency, adequate nutrition that is also related to bloodflow is required for healing to take place

• Medication: Use of NSAIDS and steroidal drugs slow down proliferation and remodelling processes.

• Temperature: Colder it is = slower rate of healing

• Appropriate loading of healing tissue during rehab