MEDIAL COLLATERAL LIGAMENT (MCL) INJURIES

The MCL is one of the four major ligaments of the knee. It connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) along the inside of the knee. Along with the other ligaments in your knee joint, the MCL provides stability in your knee when running, walking, and performing other physical activities that involve your legs. A MCL injury typically means that you have an MCL tear, and is often diagnosed with injuries to other areas of the knee.

The most common cause of an MCL injury is when the knee is hit on the outside this can cause the MCL to overstretch and tear. An MCL tear usually occurs during a landing, and can also be injured when landing after a jump.

Like with most knee injuries, a torn MCL is associated with pain and swelling around the knee joint. The knee may also feel like it is catching or locking when moving. In more severe injuries, patients may experience knee instability or buckling during activity.

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