A MCL injury is an injury to the medial collateral ligament, a crucial ligament in the knee.
Understanding the Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)
The medial collateral ligament (MCL) plays a vital role in stabilizing the knee joint. Here's a breakdown:
- Location: The MCL runs along the inside of the knee, connecting the upper part of the shin bone (tibia) to the lower part of the thigh bone (femur).
- Function: The MCL's primary function is to keep the shin bone in its proper position and prevent excessive sideways movement of the knee.
How MCL Injuries Occur
According to the provided reference, MCL injuries typically happen due to:
- Pressure or stress on the outside of the knee: This type of force can stretch or tear the MCL.
Common Causes of MCL Injuries
MCL injuries are frequently seen in sports and activities that involve:
- Direct blows to the outside of the knee.
- Sudden twisting motions.
- Activities requiring quick changes in direction.
