MCL Tears

Tibiofemoral Joint

Joined by tibia and femur

Supported by MCL, LCL, ACL and PCL

The iliotibial band supports the knee to limit internal rotation

The lateral and medial menisci aid in stability

Joint capsule increases stability

Moves in sagittal plane during flexion/extension

Major muscles near joint are quadriceps and hamstrings

Moves in transverse plane during rotation

How Does The Injury Occur?

Symptoms of MCL Tears

Pain StiffnessSwellingTenderness unsteady

Classifications of an MCL TearGrade 1 symptomsMild tenderness on the inside of the knee on the ligamentUsually no swelling. When bent 30 degrees, and an outward force is applied to lower leg, pain is felt, but there's no joint laxity. Grade 2 symptomsObvious tenderness on the inside of the knee on the medial ligament. Some swelling. When knee is stressed, there is pain, and laxity in the joint. Although, the knee cannot be bent sideways completely.Grade 3 symptomsA complete tear of the ligament. Pain varies. When you stress the knee, there is a joint laxity. The person may complain that they have a wobbly knee.

TreatmentTreatment depends on the grade of the tear

Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3

- rest

- ice

- anti-inflammatory medications

- same as grade 1 sprain

- hinged knee brace

- same as grade 1 & 2 sprain

- knee brace and crutches

- rarely, surgery

Rehabilitation- Range of motion exercises

eg. Heel Slices, Quadriceps Sets, Ankle ABC's

- Strengthening exerciseseg. Leg Raises, Knee Flexion, Knee Extension, Hip Flexion, Heel

Raises, Partial Squats

- Stationary bicycle

- Discontinue use of brace

- Leg press

- Walking/Jogging

- Return to activity

Post RehabilitationSTRETCHINGWarm-up: light aerobic activity for 3-5 minutesCool-down: stretching leg muscle

SAFETY EDUCATIONLearn proper way to fall, or change foot positions

RESTRest after strenuous activityAlternate between low-impact activities and high-impact activities

STRENGTHENING•Strong muscles surrounding the knee can help shoulder some of the weight•Strong quadriceps muscles can help to reduce risk of injuryex. lunges, squats