Initial treatment of an MCL injury includes ice to the area,
elevation of the joint above the level of the heart, non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and limited physical activity
until the pain and swelling subside. A hinged knee immobilizer
should be used to protect the ligament as it heals. The extent of
this type of injury is usually excessive stretching of the ligament
causing the pain and tenderness.
Review Date: 06/13/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of
Medicine; and C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief,
Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of
Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical
Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
