In short
- Check-up and treatment for a torn or sprained knee ligament, with surgery only when the knee needs it.
- Treats: ACL tears; MCL sprains and tears (inner side of the knee); PCL tears.
- A video consultation is useful to go through your MRI, get a second opinion or plan physiotherapy.
- Treated by Dr. Yash S. Shah, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), at Bodyline Hospital, Paldi, Ahmedabad.
Knee ligament injuries (ACL, MCL, PCL, LCL)
Many ligament injuries, especially MCL sprains, are treated with a brace and physiotherapy. Surgery is discussed when the knee stays unstable, more than one ligament is torn, or you want to go back to sports that involve turning and jumping.
Check-up and treatment for a torn or sprained knee ligament, with surgery only when the knee needs it.
What it treats
- ACL tears
- MCL sprains and tears (inner side of the knee)
- PCL tears
- LCL and outer-corner injuries
- More than one ligament torn at the same time
- Ligament tears with meniscus damage
Common symptoms
- A pop or a sudden giving way at the moment of injury
- Swelling within a few hours
- Pain on the inner or outer side of the knee
- The knee feels loose when you turn or go down stairs
Knee ligament injuries: when to see a doctor
- Your knee swelled up after a twist or fall
- You cannot put full weight on the leg
- The knee gives way or feels wobbly
- An old injury still stops you from playing sport
Knee ligament injuries: treatment options
Finding which ligament is hurt
A careful knee examination, with an X-ray or MRI where needed. Bring any scans you already have.
Brace and physiotherapy
Many MCL injuries and some partial tears settle with a knee brace and a planned exercise programme.
Keyhole reconstruction
When surgery is advised, a torn ligament such as the ACL is rebuilt through small cuts. See ACL and PCL reconstruction for details.
Knee ligament injuries: recovery
Recovery depends on which ligament is injured and how badly. You get a stage-by-stage plan for walking, work and sport, adjusted at each follow-up.
Who treats you
Dr. Yash S. Shah consults and operates at Bodyline Hospital, Paldi. He trained in joint replacement and arthroscopy in Mumbai, and at NYU Langone, New York and Johns Hopkins, Baltimore.
Consultation room, Bodyline Hospital, Paldi 
With an arthroscopy mentor during fellowship 
Fellowship training
Video or clinic?
A video consultation is useful to go through your MRI, get a second opinion or plan physiotherapy. A fresh, swollen knee should be examined at the clinic.
Video consultation fee ₹600.
Questions
Does a torn MCL need surgery?
Usually not. Most MCL injuries are treated with a brace and physiotherapy. Surgery is considered when the tear is severe or other ligaments are torn too.
How do I know which ligament I have torn?
The way the injury happened, where it hurts and a knee examination give strong clues. An MRI confirms it when needed.
Can I walk on a torn ligament?
Many people can walk, but the knee may give way when turning. Avoid sport until your knee has been checked.
This page is general information to help you understand your options. It is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.