LCL Injury
The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) stabilizes the outer side of your knee. Learn about causes, symptoms, and treatment for LCL injuries.
What is an LCL Injury?
The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is a thin band of tissue on the outside of your knee. It connects your thighbone (femur) to the smaller bone in your lower leg (fibula) and provides stability against inward forces on the knee.
LCL injuries are less common than MCL injuries but often occur alongside other knee ligament damage. They typically result from a direct blow to the inside of the knee or from awkward landings and pivoting movements.
Grades of LCL Injury
Grade 1 (Mild)
Minor stretching of the ligament. Mild pain with no significant instability.
Grade 2 (Moderate)
Partial tear of the ligament. Moderate pain and some joint looseness.
Grade 3 (Severe)
Complete tear of the ligament. Significant instability and pain.
Symptoms
- Pain on the outer side of the knee
- Swelling along the outside of the knee
- Tenderness when pressing on the outer knee
- Feeling of instability, especially with lateral movements
- Stiffness and limited range of motion
- Locking or catching sensation in the knee
Common Causes
- • Direct blow to the inner side of the knee
- • Hyperextension of the knee
- • Sudden pivoting or direction changes
- • Contact sports injuries
- • Often occurs with other ligament injuries
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity and whether other structures are injured.
Rest & Protection
Avoiding activities that stress the ligament while it heals
Bracing
Hinged brace to stabilize the knee and protect the healing ligament
Physical Therapy
Strengthening exercises focusing on the outer thigh muscles
Surgery
May be needed for complete tears or combined ligament injuries
Important Considerations
LCL injuries often occur with damage to other knee structures, including the ACL, PCL, or posterolateral corner. A thorough evaluation is essential to identify all injured structures and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Dr. Hunter will perform a comprehensive examination and may recommend MRI imaging to assess the full extent of injury.
Related Conditions
Get your LCL injury evaluated
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hunter for a thorough assessment of your knee injury and personalized treatment plan.