Medial Collateral Ligament Sprain (Grade II) GOLD

Question 1

What forces are primarily resisted by the MCL?

Answer 1

Valgus forces and lateral rotation of the tibia (especially during knee flexion)

Question 2

Common MOI for the MCL?

Answer 2

Direct blow to the lateral knee leading to a valgus force to the medial knee.

Question 3

What is a Grade II ligament sprain?

Answer 3

Partial tearing of the ligament fiber, leading to joint laxity and pain.

Question 4

Clinical presentation?

Answer 4

Joint swelling
Laxity with valgus testing

Question 5

What is the Unhappy Triad?

Answer 5

Includes injury to the:

• MCL
• ACL
• Medial Meniscus

Question 6

What conservative management intervention can be utilized to reduce pain?

Answer 6

RICE
Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate

Question 7

General interventions for PT?

Answer 7

• ROM exercise
• Start off with light resistive exercise
• Closed chain exercises
• Functional activities

Question 8

Expected return to function?

Answer 8

Should be able to return to PLOF within 4-8 weeks.

Question 9

What special test is performed?

Answer 9

Valgus Stress Test: knee tested first in full extension (0 degrees) then 30 degrees of flexion.