MCL Tear Rehab in Collinsville, IL

MCL Tear Treatment in Collinsville, IL. Dealing with an MCL tear is often painful and worrying, affecting your everyday activities and ability to do the things you love most. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize the difficulties you encounter and are here to provide the support and expertise you need to heal completely from your MCL injury in Collinsville, IL. Our dedicated team of experienced Collinsville, IL physical therapists is committed to developing personalized treatment plans specifically designed for your unique injury, aspirations, and desired lifestyle. With our all-encompassing method and state-of-the-art facilities, we support you throughout your recovery process. Contact us online, schedule an appointment, or call the Axes location nearest you and let us support you in getting back to your favorite activities.

Anatomy of an MCL Tear

The knee is a complex joint consisting of bones, cartilage, muscles, and ligaments (connecting bone to bone), all working together to provide stability and mobility. Four primary ligaments stabilize the knee: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and medial collateral ligament (MCL).

The MCL is found on the inner side of the knee, joining the femur (thighbone) to the tibia (shinbone). The MCL is vital for knee stability, especially against inward forces. An MCL tear happens when the ligament is overstretched or torn, often due to sports injuries, direct impacts, or sudden twisting movements.

Functions of the MCL in Knee Stability

The MCL is crucial for knee stability by:

• Stabilizing the inner knee against lateral forces
• Aiding in knee movement and alignment control
• Stopping the knee from collapsing inward

An MCL tear is capable of hindering these functions, leading to pain, instability, and difficulty with movement.

Grades of MCL Tears

MCL tears are classified into three grades based on the severity of the injury,:

Grade 1 MCL Tear: Mild Tear

• Entails slight stretching with microscopic damage to the MCL
• Symptoms involve mild inner knee pain and tenderness, with negligible swelling
• Knee stability is generally maintained, allowing for normal movement with some discomfort

Grade 2 MCL Tear: Moderate Tear

• Characterized by a partial tear of the MCL, resulting in greater pain and swelling
• Symptoms encompass noticeable tenderness, moderate swelling, and a feeling of knee instability
• More limited movement, making walking or weight-bearing on the knee difficult

Grade 3 MCL Tear: Severe Tear

• Involves a total MCL rupture, leading to substantial pain and instability
• Symptoms include severe pain, considerable swelling, and a pronounced sense of knee instability
• The knee might feel unsteady or give way, making it hard to walk without help

Causes of an MCL Tear

Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) tears can occur due to various causes, including:

• Direct Impact or Trauma:
  • Contact Sports: Football, soccer, and hockey players in Collinsville, IL often experience direct blows to the outer knee, causing the inner knee to overstretch or tear.
  • Accidents: Motor vehicle collisions or falls impacting the knee directly may cause MCL tears.
• Twisting Movements: Sports that require rapid pivoting or twisting motions, such as basketball or skiing, can strain the MCL. Landing awkwardly from a jump can twist the knee, causing MCL damage.
• Overuse or Repeated Stress: Activities that place repetitive stress on the knee, like long-distance running, may gradually weaken the MCL, increasing tear risk.
• Poor Conditioning or Muscle Imbalance: Inadequate strength in the muscles around the knee can increase the risk of MCL tears as the ligament compensates for the lack of support. Muscle imbalances between the quadriceps and hamstrings destabilize the knee, increasing MCL strain.
• Inadequate Warm-Up or Flexibility: Skipping warm-up exercises before engaging in physical activity renders the MCL less ready to handle abrupt movements. Tight muscles around the knee can increase the likelihood of overstretching the MCL during activity.
• Previous Knee Injuries: Prior injuries to the knee, including previous MCL injuries, weaken the MCL, making it more susceptible to tears.
• Age-Related Factors: As people age, the ligaments can lose some of their elasticity and strength, raising tear risk.

To prevent MCL tears, engage in proper conditioning, strength training, flexibility exercises, and use protective equipment during sports.

Symptoms of an MCL Tear

An MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) tear has specific symptoms that can help in identifying the injury. These symptoms can vary in severity depending on the extent of the tear. Usual indicators of an MCL tear include:

• Pain: Pain is typically localized on the inner side of the knee. The pain can range from mild to severe depending on the grade of the tear.
• Swelling: Swelling can develop around the inner knee shortly after the injury. Swelling may increase over the first 24 hours following the injury.
• Tenderness: The inner side of the knee is often tender to touch.
• Stiffness: Stiffness in the knee joint, making it difficult to fully extend or bend the knee. The knee can feel tight or stiff.
• Instability: A sensation that the knee feels unstable or may give way when walking or bearing weight. The knee can feel wobbly or less stable.
• Bruising: Bruising may appear on the inner side of the knee, extending down the leg in some cases.
• Difficulty Walking: Difficulty walking or a noticeable limp due to pain and instability. Avoiding putting weight on the affected leg due to discomfort.
• Locking or Catching: In some cases, the knee can lock or catch while moving.

Diagnosing an MCL Tear in Collinsville, IL

Diagnosing an MCL tear often includes a physical exam and possibly MRI or X-ray imaging to verify the injury’s severity. At Axes Physical Therapy, we provide complimentary injury screenings in Collinsville, IL. With Direct Access Physical Therapy, you can be assessed and start recovery without a referral from a doctor.

Treatment Options in Collinsville, IL for MCL Tears

Non-Surgical Treatments

• RICE Method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation to reduce pain and swelling.
• Physical Therapy: Tailored exercises to strengthen the knee, improve flexibility, and restore mobility.
• Bracing: Using knee braces to provide support and prevent further injury during the healing process.

Surgical Treatments

Surgery is usually required for severe MCL tears (Grade 3) or when the MCL tear is combined with other ligament injuries, such as ACL tears. Surgery can be necessary if conservative measures do not enhance knee stability and function sufficiently.

The MCL tear surgical procedure usually includes repairing or reconstructing the torn MCL to regain knee stability and function. This may involve stitching the torn ligament ends together or using a graft from another tendon to reconstruct the MCL.

Pre- and Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

Pre/post surgical rehabilitation is crucial for recovery both before and after surgery. At Axes Physical Therapy in Collinsville, IL, we offer personalized rehabilitation programs designed to prepare your knee for surgery by improving strength and flexibility. Post-surgery, our Collinsville, IL physical therapists collaborate with you to optimize recovery, emphasizing knee stability and function restoration. This comprehensive approach guarantees you can resume your regular activities swiftly and securely.

Collinsville, IL Physical Therapy for MCL Tears

Physical therapy in Collinsville, IL is essential for recovering from an MCL tear, focusing on restoring knee function, strength, and mobility. At Axes Physical Therapy in Collinsville, IL, our approach includes:

• Initial Assessment: Evaluating the extent of the injury and developing a tailored treatment plan.
• Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles around the knee for better stability and support.
• Range of Motion Exercises: Gradually improving flexibility and reducing stiffness.
• Functional Training: Training specific movements and activities related to your lifestyle or sport.

Our therapists use a variety of techniques, such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation, to promote healing and expedite recovery. Each program is individualized to address your specific needs, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome.

Recovery and Prognosis for MCL Tears

Recovery from an MCL tear depends on the injury’s severity and the treatment plan’s effectiveness. Here’s a typical recovery timeline and factors affecting it:

Typical Recovery Timeline:

• Grade 1: A few days to a few weeks
• Grade 2: Several weeks to a few months
• Grade 3: A few months to six months, especially if surgery is involved

Factors Affecting Recovery:

• Severity of the tear
• Adherence to rehabilitation exercises
• Overall health and fitness level

Tips for a Successful Recovery:

• Follow your physical therapist’s advice and exercise regimen
• Refrain from activities that could stress your knee too soon
• Keep a healthy diet to aid recovery

A comprehensive rehabilitation plan with Axes Physical Therapy ensures the best chance for a complete recovery and return to your favorite activities in Collinsville, IL.

Call Axes For Your MCL Tear Treatment in Collinsville, IL

If you suspect you’ve suffered an MCL tear, see Axes’ Collinsville, IL physical therapists for an evaluation and to commence your recovery process. At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize the difficulties and frustrations associated with knee injuries. Our experienced Collinsville, IL physical therapists focus on delivering tailored MCL tear care that caters to your individual needs, supporting strength and mobility recovery. Don’t allow an MCL tear to keep you off your feet any longer than necessary. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy in Collinsville, IL today and start on the path to complete recovery. Contact us online, schedule an appointment, or call the Axes location nearest you.