Dr. Vaishali Suri (P.T.)
Knee Ligaments: Multiple Stabilisers
The knee has four main ligaments: the ACL and PCL (cruciate ligaments, inside the joint), and the MCL and LCL (collateral ligaments, on the sides of the knee). ACL rehabilitation has a separate detailed blog. This article focuses on the collateral and posterior cruciate ligaments, which have different rehabilitation approaches.
MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) Injuries
The MCL is the most commonly injured knee ligament. It is damaged by valgus stress (force applied to the outer knee, pushing it inward) -- common in contact sports (football tackle, cricket fielding dives). Grade 1-2 MCL tears (the vast majority) heal excellently with physiotherapy alone -- surgery is rarely required. Grade 3 (complete rupture) also heals conservatively in most cases.
LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament) Injuries
Less common than MCL injuries. Caused by varus stress. Often associated with posterolateral corner injuries, which are more complex and may require surgical assessment.
PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament) Injuries
The PCL is the strongest knee ligament and rarely completely tears. PCL injuries from dashboard trauma (knee forced backward) or kneeling on a flexed knee. Isolated PCL tears in most patients are managed conservatively with physiotherapy, producing excellent functional outcomes.
Physiotherapy Rehabilitation for Knee Ligament Injuries
Acute Management
PRICE (Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), crutches initially, gentle range of motion within pain limits.
Progressive Strengthening
Quadriceps and hamstring strengthening progressively loaded. For MCL: emphasis on medial stability. For PCL: emphasis on hamstring co-contraction (acts as secondary PCL).
Functional Return
Running, agility, and sport-specific training with criteria-based progression.
Knee Ligament Treatment in Faridabad
At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5, Faridabad, we provide comprehensive knee ligament rehabilitation. Book your knee assessment today.