The medial collateral ligament (MCL) runs along the inner side of the knee, connecting the femur to the tibia. It is one of the most commonly injured knee ligaments, particularly in contact sports such as football, hockey, and soccer.
Dr. Joe Cooper, a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon in Beverly Hills and Brentwood, has extensive experience diagnosing and treating MCL injuries of all severity levels.
Causes
MCL tears most often result from a direct blow to the outer side of the knee forcing it inward (valgus stress), or from sudden twisting. They are common in contact sports and skiing.
Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness along the inner edge of the knee
- Swelling over the medial side of the joint
- Stiffness and difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee
- A feeling of instability or the knee giving out
Grading
- Grade I: Mild sprain — stretched but intact, minor pain, no instability
- Grade II: Partial tear — more significant pain and some joint looseness
- Grade III: Complete tear — marked instability, often with concurrent ACL or meniscus injury
Treatment
The vast majority of MCL tears heal well without surgery through rest, bracing, and physical therapy. Grade III injuries with multi-ligament involvement may require surgery. Dr. Cooper develops a personalized treatment plan based on your injury and goals.
Schedule a Consultation
Contact Dr. Cooper's Beverly Hills or Brentwood office for expert knee evaluation today.
