LCL injuries affect the ligament on the outer side of your knee that connects the thighbone to the smaller bone of the lower leg. This ligament helps keep the knee stable when forces push the knee outward. Injuries often happen with a blow to the inner knee, a sudden change in direction, or an awkward landing during sports or activity.
At OrthoNJ, we evaluate and treat LCL injuries with a careful exam and a plan tailored to your activity goals.
What Are the Symptoms of Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL Injuries)?
- Outer-knee pain
- Swelling and bruising
- Tenderness to touch
- Instability or giving way
- Stiffness and limited motion
- Popping at the time of injury
What Causes Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL Injuries)?
- Direct impact to the inner knee: A hit to the inside of the knee can push the joint outward, straining or tearing the LCL.
- Sudden pivoting or cutting: Quick changes of direction during sports can overload the outer knee structures.
- Hyperextension or awkward landings: Overstraightening the knee or landing off balance can stretch the LCL beyond its limit.
- High-energy accidents: Falls or collisions may injure the LCL and sometimes nearby tissues in the knee.
- Sports participation: Contact sports and activities with frequent pivoting increase the risk.
- Prior injury or muscle imbalance: Previous knee injuries and weak hip or thigh muscles can lead to extra stress on the LCL.
How to Prevent Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL Injuries)?
- Strength and balance: Build hip, thigh, and core strength and practice balance drills to support knee control.
- Proper technique: Learn safe cutting, landing, and deceleration mechanics to reduce stress on the outer knee.
- Gradual training: Increase intensity and volume slowly to allow tissues to adapt.
- Warm up and flexibility: Use a dynamic warm up and maintain flexibility to prepare your knee for activity.
- Protective gear when appropriate: Use bracing or taping only if recommended for your sport or injury history.
- Footwear and surfaces: Wear supportive shoes and train on even, appropriate surfaces to lower twisting forces.
- Recover fully after injury: Return to sport only after pain, swelling, strength, and control have normalized.
When to Seek Orthopaedic Care for Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL Injuries)
- Severe pain or swelling: Marked pain, bruising, or swelling on the outside of the knee should be evaluated.
- Instability or giving way: A knee that feels unreliable with walking, turning, or stepping on uneven ground needs prompt assessment.
- Difficulty bearing weight: Trouble standing or walking without limping can indicate a significant injury.
- Tenderness over the outer knee: Pain along the LCL or near the fibular head suggests ligament involvement.
- Numbness or tingling: New changes in sensation in the lower leg or foot should be checked.
- No improvement with rest: Symptoms that do not improve after a few days of rest, ice, compression, and elevation warrant a visit.
- Visible deformity or locking: A knee that looks misshapen or catches and locks needs urgent care.
An orthopedic surgeon is recommended for Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL Injuries). Your specialist can examine your knee, use imaging if needed, and recommend the right treatment plan, including nonsurgical care or surgery when appropriate. The team at OrthoNJ is here to guide you from diagnosis through recovery.
Find An OrthoNJ Location
Contact one of OrthoNJ's locations spread out through all of New Jersey.
Why Choose an OrthoNJ Doctor for Your Care?
OrthoNJ is different from your typical medical provider. Unlike many in the industry, we prioritize patient care over profits. Our six divisions work collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. We believe in the "Power to Put Patients First," and our doctors and divisional partners strive to uphold this commitment in every aspect of our care.
- With over 120 fantastic physicians, all board-certified, board-qualified, or fellowship-trained, OrthoNJ offers top-tier expertise across a wide range of specialties.
- We serve over 250 communities throughout New Jersey, providing treatment and continuing care for various orthopedic needs.
- With more than 30 statewide offices, our reach extends across the entire state. Whether in North Jersey, South Jersey, or anywhere between, OrthoNJ proudly serves you.
This treatment info is for informational purposes only. Treatment and recovery vary person to person, and you should consult with your treating physician and team for details on your treatment and recovery process.
