About Knee Ligament Injuries

 

The knee joint contains four primary ligaments: the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL), the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL), the Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) and the Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL). The ligaments work together to stabilize the knee and support its function. Injuries to the ligaments, particularly the ACL, are among the most common knee injuries. It takes significant force to injure knee ligaments, so these injuries are most common among athletes. However, they can occur from non-athletic trauma, such as a car accident or a severe fall.

 

Injuries to ligaments are referred to sprains, which have several grades of severity:

 

  • Grade 1 Sprains: Ligament is mildly damaged or stretched, but is still able to keep the knee joint stable.
  • Grade 2 Sprains (Partial Tears): Ligament is stretched to the point where it becomes loose and can no longer fully stabilize the knee joint. 
  • Grade 3 Sprains (Complete Tears): Ligaments is split into two pieces, rendering it completely unable to stabilize the knee joint.

 

Injuries to knee ligaments are frequently accompanied by damage to other parts of the knee, such as articular cartilage or the meniscus.

 

Diagnosing Knee Ligament Injuries

 

Because injuries to the knee ligaments are typically caused by trauma, they are usually noticeable right away. The knee often makes a popping sound and seems to collapse or give way. Other symptoms include pain and swelling, reduced range of motion, inability to walk or change direction, and a feeling of instability in the knee.

 

Treatment Options

 

Treatment options depend on the ligament or ligaments injured and the severity of the damage. Typically, injuries to the PCL, LCL and MCL do not require surgery. Rest, ice, bracing, and physical therapy is typically sufficient to treat injuries to the PCL, LCL and MCL. In some cases where the ligament damage is accompanied by damage to other knee structures, your doctor may recommend surgery.

 

For injuries to the ACL and PCL , surgery is typically required to return to an active lifestyle. Several procedures and techniques may be considered, depending upon the ligament injured, any damage to surrounding structures, and the severity of the damage. Your surgeon will discuss treatment options and recommend the ideal procedure for your injury.

 

Schedule a Consultation With OSMC

 

OSMC’s surgeons are experienced with treating knee injuries, including ACL tears and other ligament injuries. As the official team physicians for K-State Athletics, OSMC’s surgeons have helped athletes at all levels, from amateur to elite, return to competition quickly and effectively. To schedule your consultation with an OSMC surgeon, click here.