How does a lateral collateral ligament injury develop?
The LCL is usually injured by pressure placed on the knee joint from the inside, resulting in stress on the outside of the joint. For example, a blow to the inner side of the leg, such as can happen during any number of contact sports, may result in an injury. An LCL injury may occur in isolation, or it may be part of a complex knee injury. A weakened or loose lateral collateral ligament may increase the risk of injury. LCL injuries may also occur in conjunction with injuries to other ligaments of the knee, such as an anterior cruciate ligament (LCL) injury, a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury or a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury. What are the symptoms of a lateral collateral ligament injury? Initial symptoms include pain, as well as fairly immediate swelling. After the pain and swelling subside, individuals complain of episodes of instability or of the knee giving way. The knee may also feel loose—a feeling some have likened to walking on roller-skates. Some afflicted i
