LCL Tear/Sprain

Your lateral collateral ligament (LCL) stabilizes the outside of your knee. Injury to this ligament is rare, and, when it does occur, is often found alongside multiple other traumatic injuries. Injury to the LCL results in decreased knee stability.

An LCL tear/sprain most commonly occurs after an inside-to-outside force on the knee, or a major trauma (car accident, fall, assault, etc).

– Poor lower body mechanics.

– Hip weakness.

– Poor lower body mobility.

– Pain on outside of knee.

– Swelling/bruising.

– Difficulty walking.

– Decreased knee range of motion.

At Home Diagnostic Tests

– None — see symptom checklist.

At Home Care

– Begin edema management immediately – elevation, ankle pumps, ice, NSAIDs as needed, compression.

– Crutches as needed for walking.

When to Seek Help

If you are experiencing the above symptoms, please see your physical therapist immediately. Your physical therapist will provide a comprehensive evaluation and determine if you need medical imaging or further assessment by an orthopedic surgeon, as well as provide immediate treatment to get you feeling and moving better – you won’t find this in an orthopedic quick care or PCP’s office!

Inspired Athletx Treatment

Both conservative management and post-surgical care follow a similar structure, with certain weight bearing and range of motion restrictions included after surgery. The immediate goal is to reduce swelling, improve pain, and increase range of motion through a combination of manual therapy and active exercise. Progressive return to activity will include general strength training for the core and lower body, improving lower body mechanics, overall mobility, and balance. As the patient nears return to sport, the focus shifts toward sport specific activities, including running, jumping, and change of direction drills.

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