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MCL and LCL Injuries

The medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) are important stabilising ligaments located on either side of the knee. The MCL, on the inner knee, is commonly injured by forces to the outside of the knee or a twisting movement. The LCL, on the outer knee, is less commonly injured but can occur when the knee is forced outward.

About this condition

These injuries are graded from I to III based on severity (mild stretch to a complete tear). Most Grade I and II injuries are managed conservatively without surgery, recovering well with structured rehabilitation over four to eight weeks. Grade III tears, or injuries involving other structures like the ACL or meniscus, may require surgical repair or reconstruction, with a longer recovery of several months. Getting an accurate diagnosis and grading early on helps determine the right treatment path and timeline.

What you may be feeling

  • Pain or tenderness around the sides of the knee
  • Swelling or bruising around the knee
  • Feelings of instability or the knee ‘giving way’
  • Knee stiffness and reduced movement
  • Difficulty walking or loading the injured leg
  • Reduced confidence or fear of movement, especially with twisting or pivoting actions
  • Frustration associated with the recovery process

These symptoms are a normal response to ligament injury. We’ll help you understand your specific grade of injury and what recovery looks like for you.

How we can help you

Comprehensive post-operative assessment 

Evaluating knee movement, ligament stability, swelling, strength, balance, walking, and functional capacity.

Individualised and protocol-guided rehabilitation planning 

Creating a tailored plan around the injury severity, ligament healing timeline, your symptoms and goals.

Movement and control retraining

To improve movement, knee control and confidence during more complex movements and activity.

Manual therapy

Using different hands-on techniques to help improve pain, stiffness, and mobility.

Targeted strengthening

Targeting weaknesses in individual muscles (e.g. quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes) and progressively rebuilding the knee’s capacity for load.

Return-to-sport preparation

Developing the strength, control, and confidence required for a safe return to higher-level activities.

So, what's next?

Being faced with an injury or being told by a health practitioner to undergo a particular treatment can be quite daunting. That’s why we are here to help you. You can book a 15-minute video consult to ask your trusted health practitioners any questions you may have on your mind. No judgement, no strings attached and most importantly, no fees!