What It Is

The Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) is a band of tissue located on the inner side of the knee, connecting the thigh bone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia). The MCL helps stabilize the knee, especially during side-to-side movement. MCL injuries often occur due to a direct blow to the outer side of the knee, causing the ligament to stretch or tear. These injuries are common in contact sports like football, soccer, and hockey.

Signs & Symptoms

  • Pain on the inner side of the knee
  • Swelling and tenderness along the inside of the knee
  • A feeling of instability, especially when turning or twisting the knee
  • Stiffness and difficulty bending the knee
  • In more severe cases, a visible “buckling” of the knee when putting weight on it

Diagnosis

To diagnose an MCL injury, Dr. Romanelli will perform a physical examination, checking for pain, swelling, and instability in the knee. He will also test the range of motion and perform specific tests to evaluate the integrity of the MCL. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the injury, as well as assess any other ligament or cartilage damage.

Treatment

The treatment of an MCL injury depends on the severity of the tear. Mild to moderate injuries typically respond well to non-surgical treatments, while more severe or combined injuries may require surgical intervention.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Most MCL injuries can be treated without surgery. Non-surgical options include:

  • Rest and Ice: Reducing activity and applying ice to manage pain and swelling.
  • Bracing: A knee brace may be recommended to provide support and limit movement while the ligament heals.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve stability, gradually restoring range of motion.

Surgical Procedure

Surgery is rarely required for isolated MCL injuries but may be necessary for severe tears or when combined with other ligament injuries, such as an ACL tear. In these cases, Dr. Romanelli may recommend MCL reconstruction or repair to restore stability to the knee. Surgery involves either suturing the torn ligament back together or reconstructing it using a graft from a tendon or tissue.

Physical Therapy

Rehabilitation plays a vital role in the recovery process for MCL injuries. After surgery or non-surgical treatment, physical therapy focuses on gradually strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving stability. Dr. Romanelli works closely with physical therapists to create a customized rehab plan that promotes full recovery, ensuring that patients can safely return to their normal activities.