Categories: Knee Conditions
Medial Collateral Ligament Injury
A direct blow to the outer aspect of the knee commonly causes injuries to the medial collateral ligament (MCL). Those athletes who play football and soccer are at the highest risk. When the knee is forced sideways, the MCL can tear and result in knee pain. Swelling will occur with a MCL injury as well and the knee will become unstable and give way.
When the MCL is torn severely and cannot heal correctly, surgery is necessary. This will involve grafting a piece of tendon to allow the portions of the torn ligament to connect to. Most of the time, however, these injuries can be treated without surgical intervention.
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