The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is a band of tissue located on the outer side of the knee joint, which connects the femur to the fibula. It is responsible for providing stability to the knee joint (specifically the outer side) and preventing excessive side-to-side movement. LCL sprains are commonly seen in athletes who participate in sports that involve direct impact or contact, such as football and hockey. But sprains can also occur with daily activities like walking, lifting, jumping, etc.
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Symptoms
The symptoms of an LCL sprain can vary greatly depending on the severity of the injury. A mild sprain may cause a slight discomfort and stiffness on the outer side of the knee. But a moderate to severe sprain can cause severe pain, swelling, and even bruising on the knee. Individuals with a moderate to severe sprain may also feel a sense of instability in the knee joint and may have difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg. In some cases, the joint may also become stiff and lock up, further increasing the difficulty of moving.
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Causes
LCL sprains are typically caused by a direct impact or force to the inner side of the knee. This type of impact causes the knee to aggressively move outwards, causing the LCL to stretch and even tear in some situations. This can occur during a sports-related injury, a fall, car accident or even as simple as a slip on some ice outside. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing knee conditions, such as arthritis, or those who have a history of knee injuries, are at a higher risk of developing an LCL sprain as the knee joint is already in a weakened state.
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Treatment
The treatment for an LCL sprain depends on the severity of the injury. For mild sprains, the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) is typically recommended to reduce pain and swelling. Knee bracing is also a very common approach as it gives people the much-needed stability in the knee joint and can allow them to get back to activity quicker. At BioPed, you will find a range of compressive knee sleeves and bracing options. Physical therapy is also recommended to help improve the strength and flexibility of the muscles that support the knee, which will aid in increasing the stability of the joint. Surgery is only recommended in severe cases where the ligament is completely torn or detached. It's important to note that catching the injury quickly and treating early can prevent the progression of the symptoms, which will allow you to get back to normal activities quickly.
