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KneeCondition

Collateral Ligament Injuries

Collateral Ligament Injuries refers to damage or a sprain of one of the collateral ligaments in a joint. Collateral ligaments are strong, fibrous bands of tissue that connect the bones on either side of a joint, helping to stabilize and support the joint’s movement. These ligaments are found on both sides of a joint and prevent excessive sideways movement.

Signs and symptoms of a collateral ligament injury always depend on the severity of the injury as well as the individual and which collateral ligament is affected (medial or lateral).

Here are some common signs and symptoms associated with collateral ligament injuries:

Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injury:

  • Pain: Pain on the inner side of the joint (e.g., inner knee for the knee joint) is a hallmark symptom of an MCL injury.
  • Swelling: Swelling around the injured area may occur due to inflammation.
  • Stiffness: The joint might feel stiff and limited in its range of motion.
  • Instability: Some individuals may experience a feeling of joint instability, especially when putting weight on the affected side.
  • Bruising: Bruising might develop over the injured ligament or surrounding area.
  • Difficulty Walking: Walking or putting weight on the affected leg may be challenging due to pain and instability.
  • Tenderness: The area over the injured ligament may be tender to touch.
  • Grading: Depending on the severity, MCL injuries are graded as Grade 1 (mild), Grade 2 (partial tear), or Grade 3 (complete tear).

Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injury:

  • Pain: Pain on the outer side of the joint (e.g., outer knee for the knee joint) is a primary symptom of an LCL injury.
  • Swelling: Similar to MCL injuries, swelling around the affected area can occur.
  • Instability: LCL injuries may lead to a feeling of instability on the affected side.
  • Limited Range of Motion: The joint’s range of motion might be limited due to pain and inflammation.
  • Bruising: Bruising may develop on the outer side of the joint or surrounding area.
  • Tenderness: Tenderness can be felt when touching the area over the injured LCL.
  • Grading: LCL injuries are also graded based on severity, with Grade 1 being mild, Grade 2 involving partial tearing, and Grade 3 indicating a complete tear.