Medial Collateral Knee Ligament Sprain

Description
Medial collateral knee ligament sprain is a sprain (tear) of one of the four major ligaments of the knee. The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is a structure that helps keep the normal position of the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (leg bone) along the inside of the knee. The MCL prevents the knee from buckling inward and is the ligament most commonly injured in sports. When torn, this ligament usually heals, although it may heal in a lengthened position (slightly loose). Sprains are classified into three grades. In a first-degree sprain the ligament is not lengthened but is painful. With a second-degree sprain, the ligament is stretched but still functions. With a third-degree sprain, the ligament is torn and does not function.

Common Signs and Symptoms – Notify a physician if you have any of the following:

Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the knee
A popping, tearing or pulling sensation noted at the time of injury
Swelling and bruising (after 24 hours) at the site of injury
Knee stiffness
Limping, often walking with bent knee

Treatment
Initial treatment consists of ice every two to three hours for 20 minutes the first 72 hours to relieve pain and reduce the swelling of the knee. Walking with crutches until you walk without a limp is often recommended (you may put full weight on the injured leg). Your physician may recommend a knee brace with a hinge to help regain knee motion while protecting the MCL. Range-of-motion, stretching, and strengthening exercises may be carried out at home, although referral to a physical therapist or athletic trainer is usually recommended. Rehabilitation of MCL sprains generally concentrates on reducing knee swelling, regaining knee range of motion, regaining muscle control and strength, and a short period of bracing. For severe MCL sprains or those associated with other knee ligament injuries, surgery may be recommended.

RICE Principle
With all acute injuries, follow the RICE principle to reduce swelling, pain and inflammation.

Rest- Walk with crutches if you cannot bear weight or it is very painful.
Ice- Use an ice pack for 20 minutes every two to three hours during the first 72 hours.
Compression- Use an ace wrap on the knee. Start at the top of the calf and wrap to mid-thigh.
Elevation- Keep the injured leg above the level of the heart when you are sitting or lying down