How Do I Know If I Tore My MCL?

orthopedic in Paramus NJ

The medial collateral ligament, also known as the MCL is located on the inside of the knee and is most often injured while playing sports. Many people have reported hearing a “popping” sound after tearing the MCL. Pain is persistently located in the inner knee immediately after being injured. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we are prepared to treat MCL tears with orthopedic care. Our orthopedic in Paramus NJ will help you to relieve your pain and get you back to your daily activities again.

Types of MCL Tears

Depending on the severity of the injury to the MCL, there are different classifications of injuries. The grading system of MCL tears is listed:

  • Grade I tears- Minor sprains or overstretching of the MCL. 
  • Grade II tears- Partial or incomplete tears of the MCL. 
  • Grade III tear (ligament rupture)- Complete tears of the MCL and the most severe injury. 
  • Grade III tears- An MCL rupture. 

Symptoms of an MCL Tear

There is typically pain on the inside of the knee tear; swelling may follow soon after. This swelling can spread to other areas of the knee joint days after the injury. The knee will most likely also become stiff and lack stability. Daily tasks as simple as going up and down the stairs or sitting may become difficult because they require the knee to bend. If an MCL tear is severe, it can cause damage to other areas of the knee, such as:

  • The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) on the outside of the knee
  • The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which connects bones in the thigh and lower leg at the front of the knee

Causes of an MCL Tear

Most MCL injuries occur during physical sports or accidents when the knee is moved unnaturally. The following includes instances of an MCL tear:

  • The knee is hit by an object directly on its outer side.
  • A foot is planted in the round, and an athlete forcefully shifts direction.
  • Squatting or lifting heavy objects.
  • Landing awkwardly on the knee.
  • Hyperextending the knee.
  • Constant stress to the knee, which typically causes the ligament to lose its elasticity.

Diagnosing an MCL Tear

When you come to our orthopedic in Paramus NJ, our specialist will ask you a series of questions regarding your medical history and symptoms. The doctor will also want to know the scenario that led you to injure your MCL. A physical examination will then be performed to locate the place of swelling and tenderness to determine the severity of the tear. If needed, the doctor will carry out further tests, such as an MRI scan or X-ray. An MRI scan pictures the ​​soft tissues in the body and can show a tear in the MCL. An X-ray can determine if there are further injuries, such as a broken bone.

Treatment of an MCL Tear

After the MCL is injured, it is highly recommended to apply ice to the knee to reduce pain and swelling. It may also be helpful to elevate the knee on a stool or chair. Repeat these steps multiple times a day for increments of 20 minutes. It is also advised to rest the knee after an MCL tear to speed up the healing process. Avoid sports and movement that put a strain on the MCL until it fully heals. After being diagnosed with an MCL tear, our orthopedic in Paramus NJ will want to carry out a treatment plan. Some of the courses of action include the following:

  • Using crutches to avoid putting weight on the knee joint
  • Doing physical therapy and exercises to help a person regain normal movement in the knee.
  • Surgery reconnecting the ends of the ligament or reattaching it to the bone.

MCL Tear Prevention

To avoid injuring the MCL, it is suggested to warm up and stretch before physical activity. If the muscles and ligaments are strong and flexible, they may become less likely to tear. Another precaution that one can take would be to wear the proper footgear. Well-fitted shoes can keep you more balanced and supported. 

Contact New York Sports Medicine Institute

If you feel like you may have torn or injured your MCL, contact New York Sports Medicine Institute for an appointment. Our orthopedic in Paramus NJ will listen to your concerns and advise a proper form of treatment specialized for you. Schedule a consultation with someone from our team of specialists today.

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