There are 4 main ligaments located at the knee joint. They are the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL), Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL), Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL), and Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL).
The Knee Ligaments
The ACL is located in the center of the knee joint and is responsible for controlling rotation and forward movement of the tibia (shin bone). It is typically injured with a rotational and valgus force to the knee such as cutting in soccer or football.
The PCL is located in the center of the knee joint and is responsible for rotation and posterior movement of the tibia (shin bone). This ligament is typically injured with excessive and abrupt posterior force to the knee such as during a car accident.
The MCL is located on the medial side of the knee and is responsible for protecting against valgus forces to the knee.
The LCL is located on the lateral side of the knee joint and is responsible for protecting against varus forces to the knee.
How Physical Therapy Helps Ligament Sprains
These injuries typically happen on the field of play and can be very painful. A PT can assess an athlete with one of these injuries with special tests to determine which ligament is involved as well as look for specific signs and symptoms to finally arrive at an accurate diagnosis. An MRI will likely follow your PT assessment to confirm the diagnosis in order to determine if surgery is warranted. We work with some of the best surgeons in Scottsdale to assure you will get the best care possible if needed. Call us today to find out how we can help you eliminate pain quickly and get back to what you love to do!