An MCL injury on the inner side of the knee
An orthopedic knee surgeon and a physical therapist on the medial collateral ligament
The medial collateral ligament, or MCL, runs down the inner side of the knee. It helps the knee resist force that pushes it inward. A crash can stretch or tear it. Afterward you may have pain over the inner knee, swelling and a loose feeling. A hard hit can hurt the MCL along with a cruciate ligament, the meniscus or bone. The whole knee needs to be checked. [1]
Learn how stable the knee is
Your doctor checks for tender spots and how the knee reacts to gentle sideways pressure. X rays can find breaks or bone that a ligament pulled off. An MRI may give a clearer picture of the tear and other soft tissue damage. Ask if the ligament is mildly stretched, partly torn or fully torn. Also ask what else the exam found. [1]
Stick to the right protection plan
Many MCL injuries with no other damage heal without surgery. A hinged brace, a stretch of protected walking and physical therapy can help the ligament heal as motion and strength return. More complex injuries may need a different plan. [1]
Ask exactly when to wear the brace and how much weight you can put on the leg. Find out which exercises avoid sideways strain. Do not test the knee by twisting it or leaning into the sore side. [1]
Don't brush off a knee that keeps giving way
Tell your knee team if the joint keeps giving way, locks or stays very swollen. Major new numbness in the foot needs urgent care. So does a cold or pale foot after a severe knee injury. [1]
Questions about grade, brace and therapy
- What grade is my MCL injury, and is my knee stable?
- Were the other ligaments and the meniscus checked?
- What are my rules for the brace, walking and therapy?
Log each time the knee gives way
Keep track of when the knee gives way. Bring those notes to your follow up visit. [1]
Sources and further reading
The details here are general guidance from knee surgery and physical therapy. Treatment of a medial collateral ligament injury depends on how bad the tear is and how stable the knee is. Any other injuries matter as well.
Keep learning
Safe Driving Resource Center
Guides, self-checks and articles for drivers, parents of new drivers, and families recovering after a crash.
