Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury of the knee

The medial collateral ligament provides stability to the knee and limits its movement from side to side. It connects the femur, which is the thigh bone, with the upper part of the tibia, which is one of the bones that make up the leg. Injuries to this ligament are secondary to excessive stretching, often associated with a partial or complete tear of the ligament. It is one of the most common injuries in athletes. The classic injury is when the foot is firmly placed on the floor while the body abruptly changes position. It may be accompanied by multiple ligament injuries. The most common symptoms are instability and pain in the inner part of the knee. Diagnosis is performed by consultation and physical examination. In severe cases, there will also be an MRI scan. Initial treatment in mild injuries is rest, ice applied locally, compression bandaging and elevating the limb. More severe sprains may require surgery.