Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury

An MCL injury affects the strong ligament on the inner side of the knee. Most MCL injuries can heal without surgery when the ligament is protected and rehabilitation is carefully guided.

What causes an MCL injury?

The medial collateral ligament is usually injured when the knee is forced inwards. This may happen after a blow to the outside of the knee, or when the foot is caught and the knee moves sideways. The injury can range from a mild sprain to a complete tear.

What are the symptoms?

  • sharp pain and tenderness on the inside of the knee
  • swelling
  • a wobbly or unstable feeling
  • pain when the knee is stressed sideways

 

How is it diagnosed?

Your specialist will examine the stability of the knee and may arrange X-rays to check the bones. An MRI scan can show the extent of the ligament injury and whether other structures have also been damaged.

How is it treated?

Most isolated MCL injuries heal with the right protection and rehabilitation. Treatment will be based on the severity of the tear and any associated knee injury.

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What causes an MCL injury?

Treatment routes for Medial collateral ligament injury

A hinged brace may be used for around six weeks to limit sideways movement while allowing the knee to bend. Physiotherapy will help you restore movement, strength, balance and confidence as the ligament heals.

Working with professionals and teams

Our consultants support professional athletes, sports teams, active individuals and people whose work places repeated demands on their knees. Working closely with physiotherapists, strength and conditioning specialists and the wider multidisciplinary team, they develop personalised treatment plans that support a safe return to sport, work and everyday activities.

 

The same specialist expertise and collaborative approach are available to every patient, whatever your activity level or recovery goals.

 

Working with professionals and teams

Our Experts - Leaders in Knee Treatments

Dedicated to restoring your mobility through advanced surgical care, tailored rehabilitation programmes, and compassionate, evidence-based patient support.

How to pay

We offer flexible options depending on how you choose to access care at Fortius. Whichever option you choose, we’ll help make the process clear and straightforward from the start.

Private medical insurance

Private medical insurance

If your care is covered by private medical insurance, we’ll usually invoice your insurer directly. Please check your policy in advance and request an authorisation code if your insurer requires one. You’ll be responsible for paying any policy excess or costs that aren’t covered by your insurance.

Paying for yourself

Paying for yourself

You don’t need private medical insurance to access care at Fortius. If you’re paying for your own treatment, our team will explain the costs clearly and provide a personalised quote before you decide whether to go ahead.

 

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