Clinical Features and Treatment of Collateral Ligament Injury (Knee Ligament):
Collateral ligament injury is due to direct or indirect violence as described earlier. Medial collateral ligament injury is more common due to the valgus stress caused by striking the lateral aspect of the knee joint during collision in sports. The varus force on the medial side required to cause the lateral collateral ligament injury is less common because of the protection offered by the other leg.
Clinical Features
- The patient gives history of valgus and external rotation force in mild sprains.
- In severe sprains, the patient gives history of valgus stress force due to the direct blow on the lower thigh or upper leg seen commonly in contact sports like football, rugby, etc.
- It may be associated with ACL tear or meniscal injury and then the patient may present with pain, swelling, hemarthrosis, etc.
- On examination, the point of local tenderness could be at adductor tubercle, joint line or at the insertion of tibial collateral ligament.
- About 10-20 percent of patients have damage to the extensor mechanism of the knee.
Investigations
- Stress radiographs at 15-20 degree of valgus.
- MRI helps to localize the MCL tears, ACL, meniscal injuries, etc.
- Arthrograms and arthroscopy to evaluate and rule out meniscal and cruciate pathology.
Treatment
Fresh injury nonoperative treatment is the mainstay of treatment.
- Sprain symptomatic treatment, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), etc.
- Sprain long leg cast for 4-6 weeks with knee in 30-40 of flexion.
- Sprain surgical repair in isolated tears. Repair and reconstruction in old tears or in associated injuries. Brace is required for 4-7 months.
The knee is the biggest joint in your body and one of the most complicated. It is also vital to activity. Your knee structures link your thighbone to your lower leg bone fragments. Knee structures injuries or holes are a common activities injury. Athletes who get involved in immediate contact activities like soccer or soccer are more likely to harm their security structures. Active Physical Therapy is recognized as a provider of superior care for orthopedic, Auto Accident, Sports Injuries / Trauma Cases, Work-related Injuries and comprehensive physical therapy services that improve function, encourage independence and better your quality of life. Call now for best Physical Therapy: 301-662-9335