Medial collateral ligament injury
The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is a traingular shaped structure which runs from the inner surface of the thigh bone (femur) to the inner surface of the shin bone (tibia). It restrains the knee from opening up on the inner side. Injuries to the MCL are caused when the knee is forced into a knock-kneed position by a blow to the outer side of the knee. MCL injuries can range from simple sprains through to complete ruptures. MCL injuries are often associated with meniscal cartilage injuries due to the fact that they are attached.
Sprains are best treated with early movement supervised by a physiotherapist while protecting the ligament from any further injury with a brace. Complete ruptures sometimes require surgery to repair or even reconstruct the ligament.
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