Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injury

The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is soft tissue on the outside of the knee that connects the thigh bone to the lower leg bone. Along with the medial collateral ligament (MCL) on the inside of the knee, it allows you to move your knee sideways while keeping it stable. An LCL injury, or sprain, can happen if the knee moves too far sideways. It’s a common injury in athletes, especially those who play football, soccer, or skiing. An LCL injury can also result from an accident. 

At Penn Orthopaedics, specialists with expertise in knee injuries and sports medicine and rehabilitation help you get back to living pain free and doing the activities you enjoy. 

An LCL tear may cause these symptoms: 

• A popping sound when you injured your knee 
• Locking or catching sensations when you move the knee 
• Pain or tenderness on the outside of the knee 
• Swelling 
• Stiffness 
• Bruising 
• A feeling that your knee is unstable 

The LCL can stretch or tear when pressure pushes the knee outward. This can happen if you’re in an accident and your knee is pushed sideways. During a contact sport, your LCL can tear during a collision. LCL injuries can also occur when doing everyday activities that stress the knee, especially when you: 

• Bend 
• Change directions quickly 
• Twist 
• Jump 
• Weave 
• Stop and start a movement repeatedly 

Football, soccer, basketball, and skiing involve these movements and increase the risk of an LCL tear. Also, having one LCL tear makes it more likely that you’ll have another. Treatment, including rehabilitation, after an LCL injury can help you recover quickly. 

You might not always be able to prevent an LCL sprain, but these steps may help lower your risk: 

• Wear a knee brace 
• Stretch before playing sports or doing other exercises 
• Make time for exercises that improve strength and flexibility 

Our orthopaedics and sports medicine teams provide comprehensive care for every type of sports injury, including LCL tears. Our specialists treat people of all ages and abilities—not just athletes. Our individualized treatment plans aim to reduce your LCL pain while you heal and prevent future injury.