Question

Discuss in detail about MCL.

Answer 1

The medial collateral ligament is one of the four major ligaments of the knee. It connects the femur(r (thigh bone) to the tibia (shill bone) along the insides of the knee. It also stabilises the ligament when a person is running, walking, or doing some physical activity. Torn MCL is an overstretch or tear of the ligament on the inside of the knee. Depending upon the severity of the injury, Medial Collateral Ligament injury can be classified mainly into three types:

1. Grade 1 (Mild) Medial Collateral Ligament Injury: In this, the ligament is mildly damaged. It becomes slightly stretched but is still able to help in keeping the knee joint stable.
2. Grade 2 (Moderate) Medial Collateral Ligament lnjury: In this, the ligament stretches to the point where it becomes loose. This is often referred to as a partial tear of the ligament.
3. Grade 3 (Severe) Medial Collateral Ligament Injury: In this, the ligament is completely torn. It splits into two pieces, and the knee joint becomes unstable.

Causes

1. Hit or collision to the knee from outside, such as in football tackle.
2. Improper landing after a jump.
3. Overstretching of the ligament.

Symptoms

1. A 'pop' or a popping sound upon injury.
2. Pain and tenderness along the inner part of the knee.
3. Swelling of the knee joint.
4. A feeling that the knee is going to give out when weight is put on it.

First Aid

It involves "P.R.I.C.E.R" (Protection, Rest, Ice application, Compression, Elevation, and Referral).

1. Protect the area from further injury.
2. Provide rest and stop using the injured part.
3. Apply ice over the affected area.
4. Compress the area and apply proper bandaging to avoid movement.
5. Elevate the injured part.
6. At last, refer the casualty to a competent doctor.