WHAT IS IT? MEDIAL COLLATERAL LIGAMENT STRAIN
The ligament that runs on the inside of the knee is called the Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL). It runs from the medial epicondyle of the femur to the anteromedial tibia. It can be strained or ruptured (see grades of ligament strain).
Signs & Symptoms
Pain and tenderness on the inside of the knee
Instability
Swelling
Audible snap or tear at the time of injury
What Causes It?
Injury to the MCL typically involves a valgus strain to the knee in slightly flexed position.
Trauma whereby a force is applied to the outside of the knee, forcing the knee excessively inward
How to Self Manage
R.I.C.E. protocol
Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling if not contraindicated.
Seeking assessment and management of your knee injury by a physio will help ensure a safer and quicker return to sport.
Prognosis
Return to sport depending on the severity will take between 4-12 weeks.
If severe, referral may be necessary for further investigation (xray, MRI, CT)
If the MCL is torn, then it can be accompanied by other structural damage such as a torn ACL, then surgery may be required to correct instability.
How Physio Helps
Assess your knee and test the MCL to see if there is any ligamentous laxity
Exclude other structures as your source of pain
Provide you with exercises to regain full movement of the knee
Soft tissue massage to reduce swelling
Deep transverse frictions to break up any adhesions
Electrotherapy
Prescribe strengthening exercises to improve hip and knee stability
A hinged knee brace may be prescribed to be worn during the rehabilitation phase to prevent sideways instability movement of the knee.
Proprioceptive exercises to improve balance and prevent re-injury
Progressive rehabilitation exercises to allow successful return to sport