Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injury
A sprain of the ligament on the outer side of the knee.
Overview
An LCL injury is a sprain of the ligament on the outer knee, less common than MCL injuries. It can occur with a force to the inner knee or twisting, and may involve other structures, so assessment is important.
Symptoms
- Pain on the outer side of the knee
- Swelling and tenderness over the ligament
- A sense of instability
- Sometimes outer-knee numbness if the nerve is involved
Causes
- A blow to the inner knee
- Twisting and hyperextension
- Sporting impacts
Treatment
- Protection and bracing early
- Graded strengthening and control
- Assessment for associated injuries
- Surgical opinion for severe or combined injuries