MCL / LCL Sprain

What is an MCL or LCL Sprain?

The medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) stabilize the knee against side-to-side forces. A sprain occurs when these ligaments are overstretched or torn, usually from contact or sudden direction changes.

Common Symptoms

• Pain along the inner (MCL) or outer (LCL) knee

• Swelling and tenderness

• Instability with side-to-side movements

• Stiffness or reduced range of motion

Physical Therapist Diagnosis

A PT uses stress testing (valgus for MCL, varus for LCL) to assess ligament integrity. Palpation and history of injury help confirm severity.

Why it Happens

Sprains commonly occur in contact sports from blows to the knee or awkward landings.

Why it Doesn’t Always Heal on Its Own

Ligaments heal slowly, and without therapy, athletes risk stiffness, instability, or recurrent sprains.

Ideal Physical Therapy Treatment

Rehab restores stability and function while the ligament heals.

Key strategies include:

• Pain and swelling management in early stages

• Manual therapy to restore motion

• Dry needling for surrounding muscular tension

• Strengthening of quads, hamstrings, and hips

• Progressive stability drills and sport-specific return

Expected Outcomes

Most MCL/LCL sprains heal well without surgery. Recovery time depends on severity but ranges from weeks (Grade I) to months (Grade III).