Do I Have An MCL Injury?

Do you experience pain along the inside edge of the knee?

Is your knee swollen?

Did you hear a pop when the damage to the knee took place?

Does your knee lurch to the side?

Do you find it hard to walk, or feel like you can’t put pressure on the leg?

Do you feel that your knee isn’t stable enough for walking, even if it doesn’t hurt to walk?

Does the knee feel stiff, or does the joint lock or catch when you move?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have an MCL (medial collateral ligament) injury. The MCL is a band of tissue that runs along the inner edge of the knee. It keeps your knee stable as it connects your shin and thigh-bones. When your knee over-extends or beds too far in a direction that it’s not supposed to bend, the MCL can get damaged. With basic care and rest, it may heal on its own. However, in case of severe injury, surgery may be needed.

Based on your answers, you are displaying several signs of an MCL injury. If your outer knee is hit very hard, the MCL can stretch out far enough to strain or tear. Many athletes in sports like football and hockey injure themselves this way. Your MCL may also stretch or tear when it’s suddenly pushed to the side, or if it beds out too far. It’s very important to contact your doctor immediately.

Based on your answers, you are displaying the signs typically seen among individuals who have an MCL injury. Make sure to visit your doctor. He will ask you how you got hurt and how it feels since the injury. Also, he will check how badly the MCL is stretched or torn. Imaging tests may be required as well. In case of a mild MCL strain, it may heal with rest, ice, and other self-care. Your doctor may have you take anti-inflammatory drugs. In case of more severe damage, physical therapy may be required. In rare cases, an MCL injury needs surgery.