How can you tell the difference between a sprained and a torn MCL?
Is it OK to walk on a sprained MCL?
If the MCL or ACL tears, the result is usually pain, swelling, stiffness, and instability. In most cases, the injured person can still walk with the torn knee ligament. But the movement will be severely limited, not to mention painful.
How long does it take to recover from a sprained MCL?
Recovery time for an MCL injury depends on the severity of the damage. On average, these injuries take six weeks to heal. No matter the grade of the tear, initial treatment focuses on immobilizing the knee and reducing pain and inflammation.
How do you treat a sprained MCL at home?
Most MCL injuries can be treated at home with rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medicine. Your doctor may suggest that you use crutches and wear a brace that protects but allows for some movement of your knee. You may need to reduce your activity for a few weeks.
How do you speed up a sprained MCL?
Resting the knee after an MCL tear can help speed up healing. People should avoid contact sports and movement that puts too much strain on the MCL until the injury heals fully. This can help to prevent further damage. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
What does a sprained MCL feel like?
MCL injuries hurt. Most people feel pain along the inside edge of the knee, and they also have swelling. You might hear a pop when the damage to the knee takes place, and your knee may lurch to the side. You may find it hard to walk, or feel like you can't put pressure on the leg with the hurt knee.
How do you tell if your MCL is sprained?
- A “popping” sound when the injury occurs.
- Immediate sharp pain from the inner section of the knee.
- Immediate swelling at the inner knee.
- Tenderness around the inner knee.
- Increased pain a few hours after the injury.
How can you tell the difference between a sprained and a torn MCL?
A sprain stretches the ligament, which can become loose after a severe injury. A tear is a more severe injury that splits the ligament in two. When someone tears the MCL, it may not hold the knee in place as securely. MCL injuries often happen during contact sports.
Can you still walk on a torn MCL?
Can you still walk with a torn MCL? If you have a grade 1 (minor) MCL tear, you'll likely still be able to walk at the time of the injury, though it might be painful. A grade 2 (moderate) MCL tear could make it difficult to walk at the time of the injury since your knee won't be as stable as it normally is.
How do you check for a torn MCL?
Physical exam: Your provider will examine your knee to see if you have pain with palpation on the inside of your knee. They'll also apply pressure (stress) your MCL to see if it's loose, which often means your MCL is torn.