Themedial collateral ligament(MCL) is an important structure that provides stability to theinside of your knee.
MCL injuries frequently occur while participating in sports.
They are usually resulting from twisting, cutting (making quick directional changes), or bending movements.
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Depending on the movement causing the injury is, the MCL may become sprained or torn.
In this article, we’ll discuss treatment options, including home interventions, medication, and physical therapy.
Additionally, a blow or tackle to the outside of the knee can also cause this condition.
But, fortunately, there are treatment options that can get you back to feeling like yourself.
During this acute phase, several treatments can help reduce these early symptoms.
Depending on the severity of the injury, your doctor may also recommend physical therapy or surgery.
This may be done every hour or so for the first three days after the sprain.
Finally, a compressive bandage or sleeve can be used to help control the swelling.
It is important to speak to your doctor before using NSAIDs to manage the pain.
Early on, this therapy typically involves placing the leg in asupportive brace.
Finally, the later stages of PT typically center around higher-level activities like running, jumping, or cutting.
Instruction on proper mechanics is usually provided.
These more demanding tasks also are reintroduced in a gradual fashion to minimize the chances of a reinjury.
This entire process can last three months (or more) depending on the severity of the MCL injury.
University of Michigan Health.Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury.
Laprade RF, WijdicksCA.The management of injuries to the medial side of the knee.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther.
2021;3(3):e901-e907.
2017;5(5):232596711770392. doi:10.1177/2325967117703920
