How To Strengthen Your Knee After Tearing Your Mcl

A medial collateral ligament -- or MCL -- tear occurs as the result of a direct blow to the knee or abnormal twisting of the knee. MCL tears can range from mild to severe and require a rest period followed by rehabilitation. The University of California San Fransisco Medical Center indicates that it takes an average of six weeks for an MCL injury to heal. Following healing, there are a variety of exercises you can participate in to help strengthen your affected knee.

Step 1

Receive medical clearance from your doctor. Never participate in physical activity following an MCL tear without permission from your doctor. You need to know that your knee has healed enough prior to beginning a strengthening program.

Step 2

Continue with physical therapy exercises. If you attended physical therapy, your physical therapist may have provided you with a list of exercises you can complete at home. Continue these exercises to strengthen your knee.

Step 3

Use a knee brace. Ask your doctor about using a knee brace during physical activity. A knee brace can help provide added support and stability to your knee until you regain full strength.

Step 4

Participate in low-impact exercises. Swimming, riding a stationary bike, walking on a treadmill or using an elliptical machine can help to rebuild strength in your knee without placing excessive stress on the joint.

Step 5

Complete knee strengthening exercises. Complete squats, lunges, single-leg balances, quadriceps settings, hamstring curls, leg presses and leg extensions. Complete exercises in one set of 20 repetitions.

Tips and Warnings

Perform exercises as tolerated. If you experience pain, discontinue exercise or decrease the intensity of your workout routine. If pain is severe or persistent, contact your physician.