The MCL, or medial collateral ligament, is on the inner side of the knee and controls the sideways motions of the knee. The MCL is injured when the knee is pushed sideways toward the other knee during landing, bending or through direct force. Activities that cause MCL injuries include skiing, football and falls. Injuries to the MCL are called sprains and may require surgery based on severity.
Sprains
MCL sprains are graded by severity. A Grade 1 sprain occurs when the ligament is stretched and mildly damaged. The knee joint remains stable. This injury is treatable without surgery. A Grade 2 sprain stretches the ligament and causes it to become loose. It may involve a partial tear and surgery may be required. A Grade 3 sprain involves a complete tear of the ligament. The knee joint becomes completely unstable and surgery is required.
Grades 1 and 2
For the first week after the injury, follow the RICE protocol -- rest, ice, compression and elevation -- and perform stretches and range-of-motion, or ROM, exercises to help maintain flexibility. Stretch the hamstring, quadriceps and calves. ROM workouts include heel slides and flexion exercises. Static strengthening exercises such as quad sets may be performed. One week after injury, dynamic knee stretches, lunges, half-squats and stepups may be introduced to help build strength. The exercise bike may be used to maintain aerobic fitness and improve leg strength. After two weeks, more intense strengthening exercises such as weighted squats and lunges and light jogging may be introduced.
Grades 2 and 3
More severe Grade 2 sprains and all Grade 3 sprains must be rested for up to four weeks to allow healing. The RICE protocol should be followed. Light range-of-motion exercises such as the heel slide and flexion/extension should be performed. After the first month, weight-bearing and dynamic strengthening exercises such as half-squats, knee flexion, knee extension, hip raises and hamstring curls should be added to the regimen. Swimming is recommended to maintain cardio fitness. Following Week 6, light jogging may be attempted while wearing a support brace. Avoid sideways movements and sudden turns.
Caution
Follow the advice of your doctor or therapist. Do not try to do too much too soon as this may aggravate the injury. Never work through pain -- if it hurts, stop. Do all the exercises as recommended by your therapist to return to full function as quickly as possible.
Member Comments