MCL Tear
What is the medial collateral ligament (MCL) of the knee?
The MCL is a ligament on the inner (medial) side of the knee that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). It helps stabilize the knee and prevents it from bending inward.
The MCL provides stability to the inner part of the knee, especially during side-to-side movement. It resists forces that try to push the knee inward (valgus stress) and plays a key role in keeping the knee aligned during walking and sports.
An MCL injury is a sprain or tear of the ligament. It can range from a mild stretch (Grade I) to a partial tear (Grade II) or a complete tear (Grade III). Most MCL injuries occur on their own, but they can also happen with other ligament injuries.
Symptoms include pain along the inner side of the knee, swelling, and tenderness. Patients may feel instability or a sensation that the knee wants to give out, especially during side-stepping or turning movements.
MCL injuries are usually caused by a force pushing the knee inward — often from contact sports, falls, or sudden changes in direction. They are common in football, soccer, and skiing.
Diagnosis includes a physical exam to test the stability of the knee and pinpoint the area of tenderness. X-rays may be taken to rule out fractures. MRI is used to confirm the grade of the MCL tear and check for other associated injuries.
Most MCL injuries heal without surgery. Treatment includes rest, bracing, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Surgery may be considered for complete tears, chronic instability, or when the MCL is torn along with other ligaments in the knee.
Recovery from MCL surgery typically takes 4 to 6 months. A brace is worn early on, and physical therapy focuses on restoring motion, strength, and stability. Full return to sports or high-level activity depends on healing and rehab progress, and whether additional structures were injured.
At a Glance
Sachin Allahabadi, MD
- Board-Certified & Fellowship-Trained Sports Medicine Surgeon
- Expertise in Minimally Invasive Knee & Shoulder Surgeries
- Assistant Professor of Clinical Orthopaedic Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital & Weill Cornell Medical College
- Learn more
