What is a LCL injury?
The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is the ligament located in the knee joint. Ligaments are strong and thick bands of tissue that connect bone to bone. The LCL is the ligament that runs along the outside of the knee joint. It runs from the bottom of the thigh bone to the top of the lower-leg bone. Its function is to help keep the knee stable. Knee specialist, Dr. Austin Chen of Boulder, Colorado specializes in knee injuries of the LCL.
What is the cause of a LCL injury?
An LCL injury could include a strain, sprain or partial to complete tear. It is one of the more common ligaments to be injured in the knee, and often injured along with other ligaments of the knee. The LCL is often injured due to a direct trauma to the inside of the knee. This pressure causes the LCL to stretch or tear.
What are the symptoms of a LCL injury?
The following are the common symptoms associated with a LCL injury:
- Feeling like the knee is going to give out when pressure is applied
- Swelling of the knee
- Pain on the outside of the knee
- Stiffness and locking
What is the treatment for a LCL injury?
The type of LCL injury will depend on the recommended treatment. For minor injuries, rest, ice, elevation, limited physical activity and the use of a brace or crutches. For more severe injuries, Dr. Chen will discuss physical therapy, rehabilitation, or surgery. Surgery may include ligament repair or reconstruction.
