Knee Ligament Problems - Others

The knee contains several types of ligaments, including the cruciate ligaments and the collateral ligaments on the sides of the knee.
The collateral ligaments include the medial collateral ligament (MCL) on the inner side of the knee and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) on the outer side. Injuries to the MCL are more common than to the LCL. Damage to these ligaments can range from sprains and small tears to complete ruptures. MCL injuries frequently occur in football players. LCL injuries often happen in combination with damage to other ligaments or the meniscus. Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are relatively common, whereas injuries to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are rare.

What causes ligament injuries in the knee?

Twisting the knee—such as during a stumble or misstep—is the most common cause of knee ligament injuries. Jamming the foot into the ground is another risk factor. Ligament injuries can also result from internal and external factors.

• Internal factors: personal conditions such as being overweight, reduced muscle strength, or poor coordination.
• External factors: environmental elements such as weather, surface type, training intensity, and sports equipment.

What are the symptoms of a knee ligament injury?

Knee ligament injuries are painful, can cause instability, and often involve damage to the cruciate ligaments. Symptoms usually occur suddenly after trauma or an awkward movement. There may also be swelling of the knee and pain on the inner and/or outer side of the joint. If a ligament is completely torn, full recovery can take anywhere from a few weeks up to 9 months, depending on the severity of the injury.

How is a knee ligament injury treated?

If you suspect a knee ligament injury, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. A proper diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan. Factors such as age, level of physical activity, type of injury, profession, and motivation for recovery all play a role.
Taking adequate rest and performing non-weight-bearing movements with the knee can support the healing process. At Podobrace, we recommend using a knee brace to aid recovery and even help prevent these types of injuries.