The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is a critical structure in your knee, playing a vital role in maintaining stability and supporting the joint during movement.
Unfortunately, MCL injuries are common in many popular Australian sports. Brisbane Broncos’ Kotoni Staggs sustained a season-ending high-grade MCL injury in 2021. More recently, Giants vice-captain Stephen Coniglio narrowly avoided a serious MCL injury and only missed two games following an injury scare in 2024. MCL injuries are also the most common knee injury experienced by professional surfers.
So, what is the MCL? How can you protect it? And what should you do if you injure it?
What is the MCL?
The medial collateral ligament is a band of strong connective tissue running along the inner side of the knee. It connects the thighbone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia) and helps stabilise the knee by preventing excessive inward motion. The MCL plays a crucial role in activities like running, jumping, and pivoting, making it particularly susceptible to injury in sports.
Types of MCL injuries and their symptoms
MCL injuries are classified into three grades based on their severity and symptoms.
| Classification | Description | Symptoms |
| Grade 1 (mild) | A minor sprain or stretching of the ligament, causing minimal damage. | Mild pain and tenderness on the inner knee, with little to no swelling. |
| Grade 2 (moderate) | Partial tearing of the ligament, leading to instability and noticeable discomfort. | Increased pain, noticeable swelling, and difficulty moving or putting weight on the affected leg. |
| Grade 3 (severe) | A complete tear of the MCL, resulting in significant pain and instability, often requiring more intensive treatment. | Severe pain, significant swelling, and a feeling of instability in the knee. In some cases, individuals may hear a “popping” sound at the time of injury. |
Treatment options for MCL injuries
An MCL injury may be treated surgically or non-surgically depending on its severity.
Non-surgical treatments include:
- Rest and immobilisation: Avoiding weight-bearing activities and using crutches or a knee brace can help protect the ligament during recovery.
- Ice therapy: Applying ice packs reduces swelling and alleviates pain.
- Physiotherapy: A rehabilitation program focuses on strengthening the knee muscles and restoring range of motion.
Surgery is rarely needed for isolated MCL injuries but may be needed if the MCL injury forms part of a complex, multi-ligament knee injury. In such cases, surgical repair or reconstruction may be needed to restore stability and function.
Preventing MCL injuries
Given a choice, of course, you’d rather avoid an MCL injury than sustain one. And there is much that you can do to condition your knee and reduce the risk of an MCL injury, including:
- Knee-strengthening exercises
- Stretching routines
- Warming up properly before exercising
- Wearing protective gear during high-impact sports.
How can I help?
If you’ve sustained an MCL injury, I’d encourage you to seek professional advice on how to ease your symptoms and restore your knee’s strength and stability.
As a highly experienced knee surgeon, I’ve helped many athletes manage MCL injuries using both non-surgical or surgical methods depending on each person’s needs.
Please book an appointment if you would like advice on your MCL ligament or other aspects of your knee.
Disclaimer
All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Dr Ross Radic can consult with you regarding your individual health needs. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
References
- Physiopedia, Medial collateral ligament of the knee, https://www.physio-pedia.com/Medial_Collateral_Ligament_of_the_Knee, [Accessed 10 December 2024]
- Cleveland Clinic, MCL tear, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21979-mcl-tear, [Accessed 10 December 2024]
- Mass General Brigham, What is an MCL injury, https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/patient-care/services-and-specialties/sports-medicine/conditions/knee/mcl-injuries#, [Accessed 10 December 2024]
