Do You Have an MCL Injury? - Use Knee Braces For Support

The knee joint may seem to be a simple joint, but actually, it is the most complicated joint in the human body. It is mostly injured more than any other. Four bones make up the knee joint: femur, tibia, fibula, and patella.

The femur is the largest bone in the thigh so it is also called the thighbone. Just below the tibia (shinbone), there is the fibula and then the patella which is also called the kneecap.

The four ligaments help to bind these bones together. One of the collateral ligaments is the Medial Collateral Ligament, abbreviated as MCL. It is also called Tibial Collateral Ligament. It is located in the inner side of the knee and attaches the thighbone to the shinbone.

An MCL injury occurs due to being hit on the outer surface of the knee and stretched. The damage of tissues depends on the force applied on the knee. An injury to the MCL can also cause a Medial Cartilage Meniscus Injury. The knee has two cartilage menisci-one on the medial or inside and the other on the lateral or outside upper surface of the shinbone.

MCL injury is classified into three grades depending on the severity of the injury. In a Grade 1 injury, 10 percent of the tissues are damaged. In Grade 3, fully 100 percent of the tissues are damaged. Of course, Grade 2 lies between the two.

The symptoms of an MCL injury vary according to the nature of the injury. Grade 1 symptoms include mild tenderness, usually no swelling, and no instability of the knee. When force is applied to the outside of the knee, the pain is felt while the knee is bent at 30 degrees. In case of a Grade 2 injury, the knee may swell up and there would be pain when the knee is bent to 30 degrees.

With a Grade 3 injury, there would be pain and the patient may feel like the knee is unstable and giving out. MCL assessment tests are conducted to diagnose an MCL injury. These tests include a questionnaire about general health problems and current injury. The physician will perform physical assessment as well to find out the cause of pain. Resisted Muscle Tests and Valgus Stress Test are two tests that are conducted.

Non-operative treatment for an MCL injury includes rest, placing ice, compression, and elevation. The patient may also use a knee brace or knee immobilizer for support. One should consult a doctor as soon as possible after injury. No one can afford an injured ligament.

This article provides the basic information about MCL and MCL injury. In case of any medical problems with your knee, you should visit your doctor.