A ligament is composed of connective tissue that attaches two bones. The four ligaments that provide the main source of stability in the knee are the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments (ACL and PCL) and the medial and lateral collateral ligaments (MCL and LCL).

The MCL attaches to end of the thigh bone (femur) and runs along the inside of the knee joint to the top of the shin bone (tibia). The MCL stabilizes the inside of the knee and is commonly damaged when a force hits the outside of the knee and causes the MCL to stretch or “open up”.

MCL sprains are graded according to the extent of the injury.

Grade I – Incomplete tear of the MCL. Few ligamentous fibers are torn and stretched. There is usually little or no joint swelling and some tenderness over the area.

Grade II – Incomplete tear of the MCL however several ligamentous fibers are torn and stretched. Pain along the medial joint line, joint tightness, general weakness and instability.

Grade III – Complete tear of the MCL. Moderate swelling, medial knee pain and loss of range of motion.

What does treatment involve? (may include 1 or all of the following)

• RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
• Anti-inflammatories as prescribed by a physician
• Physiotherapy
• Brace – Recommended Braces

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