Lateral Collateral Ligament Tears

The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is located on the outer side of the knee joint. A knee injury can result in the LCL overstretching, causing a partial tearing or completely tearing. The femur (thigh bone) and fibula (lower leg bone) are connected by the lateral collateral ligament.

When an injury occurs, you may feel like the knee is unstable and may give way. Common symptoms of an LCL injury include pain and tenderness, swelling, locking of the knee and general instability while in motion. There are a number of potential treatments for lateral collateral ligament tears. The type of treatment will depend on the severity of the injury and if other areas of the knee have suffered injury.

Dr. Nic Gay and Dr. Masi Reynolds may recommend cold treatments to help reduce swelling, as well as a support device, such as a knee brace. It is important to consider the stability of the knee and ensure that a full examination is carried out in order to arrive at the correct diagnosis.

Fully Equipped Orthopedic Practice

Silicon Valley Orthopaedics is fully equipped to provide comprehensive examinations, diagnosis and treatment of lateral collateral ligament tears. The LCL is an important ligament in maintaining knee stability. Your lifestyle may impact recovery time from an LCL tear. This is why all treatment plans at Silicon Valley Orthopaedics are individualized to suit the patient’s needs.

Dr. Nic Gay or Dr. Masi Reynolds will create a focused path to recovery, helping you to improve range of movement without further exacerbating your LCL injury. Specific advice is available to athletes who wish to return to sporting activities during treatment.

If you need a diagnosis and effective treatment for an LCL tear in California, book an appointment with Silicon Valley Orthopaedics today. Dr. Nic Gay and Dr. Masi Reynolds combine sports medicine and orthopedic treatment options to optimize outcome potentials for all patients.