Question

Distinguish between ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) and MCL (MedicaL Collateral Ligament) injury.

Answer 1

S. No.	Aspect	ACL Injury	MCL Injury
1.	Location	The ACL is placed inside the knee joint, crossing in the centre to link the femur and tibia.	The MCL is found on the inner side of the knee, linking the femur and tibia along the medial (inner) part of the knee.
2.	Function	The ACL stabilizes the knee by preventing the tibia from moving too far forward relative to the femur and limiting rotational movements.	The MCL stabilizes the knee by preventing the leg from bending inward and resists valgus stresses (which drive the knee inward).
3.	Common Causes of Injury	ACL injuries are commonly caused by rapid stops, changes in direction, or uncomfortable landings that force the knee to twist or hyperextend.	MCL injuries are often caused by a direct impact to the outside of the knee, causing it to bend inward or by excessive strain on the inner knee.
4.	Symptoms	Symptoms of ACL damage include a "popping" sensation in the knee, acute pain, rapid swelling, and instability or a sense of the knee "giving out."	An MCL injury causes discomfort and tenderness along the inner knee, swelling, and trouble moving the knee. However, knee instability is less common than ACL injuries.
5.	Treatment	ACL injuries often require surgical intervention, particularly among athletes, followed by significant rehabilitation. Physical treatment is a non-surgical option, although recovery may take several months.	MCL injuries are frequently treated non-surgically using rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) in conjunction with physical therapy. Depending on their severity, MCL injuries often heal within a few weeks to a few months.