Knee Ligament Injury
There are four main ligaments around the knee, and these can be injured in any combination.
They are the MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament), LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament), PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament) and the ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament). Surgeons grade ligament injury I,II, & III. A Grade III injury suggests the ligament is completely torn, while Grade I & II injuries are incomplete.
They are the MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament), LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament), PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament) and the ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament). Surgeons grade ligament injury I,II, & III. A Grade III injury suggests the ligament is completely torn, while Grade I & II injuries are incomplete.
Grade I & II Medial Collateral Ligament injuries are very common in isolation and are typically treated with rest, ice and elevation. Grade II MCL require a splint for a 2 weeks to ensure adequate healing.
Higher grade injuries of the ACL, PCL & LCL are more serious and require initial bracing and surgical advice. Isolated Anterior Cruciate Ligament injuries are usually complete tears and don't respond to bracing, but combined MCL & ACL injuries are braced for a few weeks, then undergo ACL reconstruction at a later date.
Model of the four major knee ligaments.