Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injuries

A medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury is a common type of knee injury due to pressure or stress on the outside of the knee. The MCL is a ligament that runs from the inside surface of the upper shinbone (tibia) to the inner surface of the bottom thighbone (femur). Its primary function is to keep the shinbone in place.

Injuries to the MCL can range from a stretch or partial tear to a complete ligament tear. You must seek proper medical attention if you suspect you have an MCL injury.

One of the most common causes of an MCL injury is a block to the outside of the knee during contact sports like football. This can cause the knee to buckle inward, putting excessive strain on the MCL. Other causes of MCL injuries include a direct blow to the knee, twisting or hyperextension of the knee, or a sudden change in direction while running or jumping.

Playing contact sports like football, soccer, hockey and basketball increases the likelihood of an MCL injury. Additionally, sports that require twisting and turning, like skiing, or high-impact activities, like jumping and sprinting, are considered high risk.

Any activity that involves repeated stress and pressure on the knee (e.g. lifting heavy objects) increases the risk of injury. 

While it is not always possible to prevent MCL injuries, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of knee injuries. Some suggestions include:

• Wearing proper protective equipment while playing contact sports
• Maintaining good physical fitness
• Stretching before exercising or playing sports
• Using proper techniques while running, jumping or changing direction
• Stopping any activity if you feel pain

Common symptoms of an MCL injury include knee swelling, locking or catching of the knee when you move it, pain and tenderness along the inside of the joint, and a knee that gives way or feels like it is going to give when it is active or stressed in a certain way.

When diagnosing MCL injuries, a doctor will typically perform a physical exam to assess the degree of damage. They may also use imaging tests such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to confirm their diagnosis. It is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible to reduce the risk of further damage.

Treatment for MCL injuries depends on the severity of the injury. For mild and moderate classifications, nonsurgical treatment is sometimes possible. Pain and swelling can often be managed with rest, ice, compression, elevation, over-the-counter pain relievers and physical therapy.

Surgical treatment is required for severe injuries involving a complete tear of the ligament. Surgical treatment repairs or reconstructs the torn ligament; with proper care and physical therapy, many recover within several months.

The experts at the Montefiore Einstein Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation can help you recover from mild, moderate and severe grades of MCL injuries and rehabilitate postsurgery. Our services include physical and occupational therapy, non-opioid oral pain management and local cortisone injections to manage pain and swelling at the injury site.

Recovery time for MCL injuries varies depending on the severity of the injury. With proper care and physical therapy, mild and moderate injuries may heal within a few weeks. However, severe injuries requiring surgery can take several months to recover fully.

Avoid activities that cause pain or instability in the knee is essential. Strengthening the muscles around the knee for stability and using proper form and protective gear when playing high-risk sports can lower the incidence of injury and its recurrence.