MCL
The ACL is an important ligament that helps to stabilize the knee.
While no one wants to hear that they have a torn ligament in the knee, it’s important to realize that torn ligaments can vary considerably in terms of severity –and recovery time.
ACL and MCL tears are two common types of injury. For many, the terms “ACL tear” and “MCL tear” are used interchangeably –but these injuries are very different.
An MCL tear is generally easier to recover from than an ACL injury. MCL tears typically require eight weeks or more to recover from, but an ACL tear may require surgery and at least six months of recovery time.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tears
An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the two major ligaments in the knee. This ligament is located towards the inner part of the knee and connects the thighbone to the shinbone. Without the ACL your knee wouldn’t be stable –and would overextend. The ACL also helps keep the knee from over-rotating.
There are over 200,000 ACL injuries in the U.S. every year. An injury to the ACL results in pain, swelling, and the inability to bend or rotate the knee without severe pain. This type of injury can also result in knee instability which can cause damage to other ligaments. ACL injuries can vary significantly in severity and can range from minor tears to severe cases where the ligament is completely torn.
Medical Collateral Ligament (MCL) Tears
The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is a ligament located inside the knee. This ligament also helps to connect the thighbone to the shinbone, helping to prevent the knee from buckling inward.
The collateral ligaments, MCL and LCL account for 25 percent of all knee injuries in competitive athletes.
While MCL tears can also vary in severity, these injuries are usually less severe than ACL tears. One of the main differences between an ACL tear and an MCL tear is that an ACL tear will have a distinctive popping sound while and MCL tear will not.
Torn ACLs are often sustained during sports when the knee stops suddenly after running, or during a stiff-legged landing. The MCL can be injured by quickly turning or changing direction.
If you suspect that you have a torn ligament, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. ACL injuries usually require more extensive recovery times, since this type injury is usually more severe than a torn MCL. In most cases, physical therapy is recommended. A knee brace may also be required, depending on the severity of the injury.
At Blackstone Orthopedics, we provide sports medicine for Rhode Island. Contact us today if you are experiencing knee pain, or if you suspect that you have a torn ligament.
Image: Mikko Koponen
