Trusted Care for Collateral Ligament Knee Injuries

A collateral ligament of the knee is located on each side of your knee. The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is on your inner knee, and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is on your outer knee. Your knee relies on these bands of tissue for stability, but they’re easily injured if your knee is hit from the side or if you suddenly change direction while running.  
 
Our sports medicine specialists are known for their expertise — we’re the official providers for USC athletes and the LA Kings hockey team. With our team of experts, you get personal attention and a treatment plan developed just for you.

Symptoms of a Collateral Ligament Knee Injury

You can sprain or tear either ligament, but MCL injuries are more common. An MCL injury can happen if the outside of your knee is hit, pushing your knee inward. Collateral ligament injuries are common in athletes. 
 
The most common symptoms of collateral ligament knee injuries include: 

• Feeling your knee locking up or giving way during movement  
• Pain along the side of your knee — on the inside for an MCL injury and the outside for an LCL injury  
• Swollen knee 

Specialized Care for a Collateral Ligament Knee Injury

Typically, doctors treat collateral ligament knee injuries without surgery. Treatments include rest, icing, anti-inflammatory medicines, bracing and physical therapy.  
 
Your doctor may recommend surgery if your ligament is torn and can’t heal properly or if your injury involves other ligaments or knee structures. If you need knee ligament reconstruction surgery, our doctors use minimally invasive arthroscopy, also called keyhole surgery, to repair ligament tears. This surgical approach uses small incisions, which offer less pain and quicker recovery times.