Medial Collateral Ligament Sprain (MCL)

A medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury affects one of the key ligaments on the inside of the knee, which helps provide stability against forces pushing the knee inwards. MCL injuries are common in both sport and everyday activities.

They most often occur following a direct blow to the outside of the knee, a twisting injury, or an awkward landing. Contact sports, skiing, and football are common settings for MCL injuries.

MCL injuries are usually graded by severity:

• Grade I – mild sprain with minimal pain and no instability
• Grade II – partial tear with moderate pain, swelling, and some instability
• Grade III – complete tear with significant pain and knee instability
   

Common symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness along the inner knee
• Swelling or stiffness
• Feeling of instability or the knee “giving way”
• Difficulty walking, running, or changing direction

Physiotherapy management focuses on:

• Reducing pain and swelling
• Restoring knee range of motion
• Strengthening the muscles around the knee and hip
• Improving balance and movement control
• Supporting a safe and progressive return to sport or daily activity