How’d you hurt your knee?
Your knee is your body’s largest joint, and knee injuries can cause serious pain and discomfort. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) tears are two of the most common types.
What Is an ACL or MCL Tear?
A stretched or torn knee ligament caused by ...
- A direct blow to the front or side of the knee
- An impact, such as landing incorrectly when jumping
- A sudden stop, start or change in direction
Knee ligaments: Bands of tissue that stabilize the knee and hold the thighbone, shinbone and kneecap together
Where Are the ACL and MCL Located?
ACL — in the middle of the knee
MCL — on the inside of the knee
What Are the Symptoms of ACL and MCL Tears?
- Feelings of instability in the knee
- Pain
- Popping sound or sensation when the injury occurs
- Swelling
How Do You Treat an ACL/MCL Tear?
- ACL tears usually require surgery. MCL tears do not.
- Icing an MCL tear helps reduce pain.
- Bracing helps protect the knee as ligaments heal.
- Physical therapy strengthens muscles and restores function.
In pain? Get your knee injuries addressed quickly at Beaufort Memorial Express Care and Occupational Health in Beaufort or Bluffton.
For pain that lingers, call 843-522-7435 to discuss your symptoms.
Sources: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, U.S. National Library of Medicine