Medial and Lateral Collateral Ligament Injuries

Causes

Most often a blow to the side of the knee that stretches or tears the ligament on the side of the knee. Such blows frequently occur in contact sports like football or hockey.

Symptoms

• A popping sensation and the knee may buckle sideways.
• Pain and swelling are common.

Treatment

Most sprains of the collateral ligaments will heal if the patient follows a prescribed exercise program. In addition to exercise, the doctor may recommend ice packs to reduce pain and swelling and a small sleeve-type hinge brace to protect and stabilize the knee. A sprain may take 4 to 6 weeks to heal. A severely sprained or torn collateral ligament may be accompanied by a torn ACL, which usually requires surgical repair.