What is an MCL or LCL Injury?
Your kneecap sits in front of the joint to provide some protection. Bones are connected to other bones by ligaments. There are four primary ligaments in your knee. They act like strong ropes to hold the bones together and keep your knee stable. The medial collateral ligament is on the inside and the lateral collateral ligament is on the outside. They control the sideways motion of your knee and brace it against unusual movement.
Common Causes:
- Direct trauma to the knee
- Hard muscle contraction — such as changing direction rapidly while running
- Falling on the knee while it’s bent
Symptoms of a Collateral Ligament Injury may include:
- Popping sensation after injury
- Pain
- Swelling
- Limited range of motion
- Trouble walking or bearing weight on the knee
When you arrive for your initial consultation, Orthopedic Physicians Alaska (OPA) team of knee specialists will evaluate your areas of concern, discuss your symptoms, and develop a customized and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This evaluation is a necessary part of diagnosing your condition and providing the best possible care.
When diagnosing a Collateral Ligament injury, the OPA specialist will provide:
- A medical, injury, and symptom history review
- A physical examination
- Multiple view x-rays
Once an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease symptoms as quickly as possible.
Common Treatments:
Nonsurgical treatment options are used to treat a Collateral Ligament sprain or partial tear. The following may be included in a customized OPA treatment plan:
NSAIDs
Decrease inflammation and pain.
Immobilization
A sling immobilizes the shoulder so the injury can heal.
Physical Therapy
OPA approved physical therapist will provide exercises to strengthen the collateral ligament and surrounding muscles, ligaments and tendons.
Most isolated collateral ligament injuries can be successfully treated without surgery. If the collateral ligament is torn in such a way that it cannot heal or is associated with other ligament injuries, the OPA knee specialist may suggest surgery to repair it. Physical therapy will be an important part of recovery after surgery.
