Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injury
What is it? A sprain or partial to full tear of the lateral collateral ligament of the knee.
How does it present? Pain and swelling that occurs after a varus force or twisting injury to the knee. Pain is usually present over the lateral knee. The patient may feel that the knee is unstable with twisting or cutting motions.
Common exam findings: Lateral collateral ligament laxity may be elicited with a varus force on the knee at 30 degrees of flexion or in full extension. Laxity and pain in full extension denote a more severe ligamentous injury. There may also be tenderness over the region of the lateral collateral ligament.
Tests and treatment: X-rays may be performed to rule out other bony injuries such as fractures of the proximal fibula. If visualization of the ligament is needed, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) would be indicated. Most sprains and partial tears are treated conservatively with crutches as needed and rehabilitation.