Sprained or Torn MCL: Causes, Symptoms & When to Seek Care

The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is one of the major ligaments that stabilizes the knee. It sits along the inner side of the joint and connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). Its key function is to prevent the knee from collapsing inward during movement.

How MCL Injuries Occur

A sprained or torn MCL is common in sports that involve contact and rapid direction changes such as football, soccer, basketball, hockey and martial arts. Injuries typically occur from:

• A direct blow to the outside of the knee, pushing it inward (valgus force)

• Sudden pivoting or twisting

• Overstretching while the foot is planted

Athletes often report feeling a sudden pain on the inside of the knee following impact or awkward movement.

Common Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the tear grade. Typical signs include:

• Pain or tenderness on the inner knee

• Swelling or bruising

• Knee “giving way” during walking

• Locking or catching sensation with movement

• Reduced ability to fully bend or extend the knee

Individuals with severe injuries may have difficulty bearing weight immediately after the incident.

Initial Care & First Aid Measures

Early management can reduce swelling and discomfort while preventing further injury. First aid steps may include:

✔ Rest — stop activity immediately
✔ Ice — apply cold packs for 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours
✔ Compression — use an elastic wrap or knee sleeve
✔ Elevation — raise knee above heart level to reduce swelling
✔ NSAIDs — medication such as ibuprofen may be considered if appropriate

In Canadian first aid training, the above measures fall under the RICE (Rest–Ice–Compression–Elevation) principle, commonly used for sprains and strains.

When to See a Doctor

While mild MCL sprains may settle with rest, medical evaluation is recommended if:

• Pain is severe

• Swelling increases over 24–72 hours

• The knee feels unstable or keeps giving out

• There is visible deformity

• Walking becomes difficult

Healthcare professionals may order imaging such as X-rays (to rule out fractures) or MRI (to confirm ligament tears and grade the injury).

Treatment & Recovery

Most MCL injuries do not require surgery unless accompanied by other ligament damage (commonly the ACL). Treatment plans may include:

• Knee bracing or supports to limit stress

• Crutches for weight-bearing relief

• Physiotherapy to restore mobility and strength

• Gradual return-to-sport protocols

With proper care, many individuals resume activity over 4–12 weeks, depending on tear severity.

Connection to First Aid & Workplace Training

Recognizing ligament injuries helps both athletes and workplace responders decide when to stop activity, support the injured knee and seek medical assessment. Canadian first aid and CPR training also emphasizes injury prevention, safe lifting mechanics and early recognition of musculoskeletal emergencies.

Disclaimer

This educational content is not a substitute for professional medical assessment or treatment. If symptoms are severe, worsening or disruptive, seek medical care. First aid and CPR training through St. Mark James Training helps Canadians respond safely to injuries and emergencies.