1. The Knee: A Most Complex Joint
Walking, running, kneeling, squatting, jumping...our knees surely take a lot of abuse and endure all of it as best they can. When you take a close look at the knee, you'll see it's really a complex and intricate joint. There are more than a few ligaments that run through it between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia and fibula (the bones in the lower leg). One of these ligaments is the lateral collateral ligament (LCL). This ligament runs along the outside of the knee, stretches from the bottom of the femur to the top of the fibula and acts as a stabilizer for the knee.
2. It's Not Easy Being a Knee Ligament
Knees are prone to injuries, as it is an exposed joint and one that relies less on bone than on the ligaments for stabilization. Since the LCL is on the outside of the knee, this one is particularly vulnerable. There are a few types of LCL injuries. The least severe is a stretch or sprain and the most severe is a complete tear of the ligament. You can also have a partial tear of the LCL.
3. How an Injured LCL Lets You Know It's Here
There are a few ways you can tell you've done any damage to your LCL. If your knee gets twisted or wrenched, you might develop tenderness along the outside of your knee. You'll have pain and swelling and have considerable weakness of the joint. X-rays can show LCL injuries, though in many cases an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) will be conducted to learn the extent of the damage to the ligament.
4. Pack a Lunch For the Potentially Long Road to Recovery
Depending on the severity of your LCL injury, you might need a long time to mend. Rest, ice, compression and elevation are pretty standard treatments as is taking oral anti-inflammatory medicine. You may resume normal activities within a couple of weeks for mild or first-degree injuries. For partial tears, or second-degree injuries, a knee brace or crutches are used, followed by physical therapy. Third-degree injuries require surgery as well as physical therapy. Some long-term instability may result from the most severe LCL injuries.
5. Keep Your LCL Knee Ligament Happy and Healthy
LCL injuries are not easy to prevent. Being in good physical condition can help to prevent injuries by making the muscles, ligaments and tendons in your legs stronger and more stable. Stretch before any physical activity. If participating in any sports, wear the proper equipment and do not be reckless. Unfortunately, even with the utmost caution and awareness and proper conditioning, LCL injuries may not be prevented.
