Wilbur Park, MO

Wilbur Park, MO

Our expert Wilbur Park, MO physical therapists offer personalized care to help you recover from your MCL tear and return to the activities you love.

MCL Tear Rehab in Wilbur Park, MO

MCL Tear Treatment in Wilbur Park, MO. Experiencing an MCL tear may be painful and distressing, disrupting your daily life and ability to participate in your favorite activities. At Axes Physical Therapy, we are aware of the struggles you endure and are committed to offering the guidance and expertise necessary to achieve full recovery from your MCL tear in Wilbur Park, MO. Our dedicated team of experienced Wilbur Park, MO physical therapists focuses on creating customized treatment strategies specifically designed for your unique injury, aspirations, and desired lifestyle. With our comprehensive approach and modern 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 comprising bones, cartilage, muscles, and ligaments (which connect bone to bone), all working together to provide stability and mobility. Four primary ligaments support the knee: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and medial collateral ligament (MCL).

The MCL is located on the inner side of the knee, linking the femur (thighbone) to the tibia (shinbone). The MCL is essential for stabilizing the knee, particularly against forces that push the knee inward. An MCL tear happens when the ligament is overstretched or torn, frequently caused by sports injuries, direct blows, or abrupt twisting motions.

Functions of the MCL in Knee Stability

The MCL is crucial for knee stability by:

An MCL tear is capable of hindering these functions, resulting in pain, instability, and movement issues.

MCL Tear Treatment & Rehab in Wilbur Park, MO | Physical Therapy for Knee Injuries Near Wilbur Park

Grades of MCL Tears

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

Grade 1 MCL Tear: Mild Tear

  • Consists of minimal stretching and tiny tears in the MCL fibers
  • 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

  • A partial MCL tear, leading to more significant pain and swelling
  • Symptoms encompass noticeable tenderness, moderate swelling, and a feeling of knee instability
  • Restricted movement, with challenges in walking or bearing weight on the knee

Grade 3 MCL Tear: Severe Tear

  • Involves a total MCL rupture, leading to substantial pain and instability
  • Severe pain, significant swelling, and noticeable knee instability are symptoms
  • The knee may feel wobbly or give out, making walking difficult without assistance

Causes of an MCL Tear

Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) tears are caused by a variety of reasons, including:

  • Direct Impact or Trauma:
    • Contact Sports: Football, soccer, and hockey players in Wilbur Park, MO often experience direct blows to the outer knee, leading to overstretching or tearing of the inner knee.
    • Accidents: Automobile collisions or falls that impact the knee directly can lead to MCL tears.
  • Twisting Movements: Sports that require rapid pivoting or twisting motions, such as basketball or skiing, are capable of straining the MCL. Awkward landings from jumps may twist the knee, leading to MCL injury.
  • Overuse or Repeated Stress: Repeated stress activities on the knee, such as long-distance running, can weaken the MCL over time, making it more susceptible to tears.
  • Poor Conditioning or Muscle Imbalance: Weakness in the muscles supporting the knee can increase the risk of MCL tears as the ligament compensates for the lack of support. Quadriceps and hamstring imbalances 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: Earlier knee injuries, including past MCL tears, can weaken the ligament and make it more prone to tearing.
  • Age-Related Factors: As people age, the ligaments can lose some of their elasticity and strength, increasing the risk of tears.

Preventing MCL tears involves proper conditioning, strength training, flexibility exercises, and using protective gear during sports activities.

Symptoms of an MCL Tear

An MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) tear can be recognized through specific symptoms. These symptoms differ depending on the grade of the tear. Typical symptoms of an MCL tear are:

  • Pain: Pain is typically localized on the inner side of the knee. The pain ranges from mild to intense based on the tear severity.
  • Swelling: Swelling around the inner part of the knee may develop soon after the injury. Swelling often intensifies in the first 24 hours after the injury.
  • Tenderness: The inner side of the knee can be tender when touched.
  • Stiffness: Stiffness in the knee joint, leading to challenges in fully extending or bending the knee. The knee can feel tight or stiff.
  • Instability: A sensation that the knee is unstable or might give out when walking or bearing weight. The knee often feels wobbly or less secure.
  • Bruising: Bruising can develop on the inner knee, sometimes spreading down the leg.
  • 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 Wilbur Park, MO

Diagnosing an MCL tear typically involves a physical examination and may include imaging tests such as an MRI or X-ray to confirm the extent of the injury. At Axes Physical Therapy, we have free injury evaluations in Wilbur Park, MO. With Direct Access Physical Therapy, you can be assessed and start recovery without a referral from a doctor.

Treatment Options in Wilbur Park, MO 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: Knee braces offer support and help prevent additional injury during recovery.

Surgical Treatments

Surgery may be needed for severe MCL tears (Grade 3) or if combined with other ligament injuries, such as ACL tears. Surgery is sometimes required if non-surgical treatments do not restore knee stability and function over time.

The MCL tear surgical procedure typically involves repairing or reconstructing the torn ligament to restore knee stability and function. This can include stitching the torn ends of the ligament back together or using a graft from another tendon to reconstruct the MCL.

Pre- and Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

Pre/post surgical rehabilitation plays a vital role in pre- and post-surgery recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy in Wilbur Park, MO, we create individualized rehab plans to ready your knee for surgery by boosting strength and flexibility. Post-surgery, our Wilbur Park, MO physical therapists work closely with you to enhance recovery, focusing on restoring knee stability and function. This comprehensive approach ensures you can return to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.

Wilbur Park, MO Physical Therapy for MCL Tears

Physical therapy in Wilbur Park, MO plays a pivotal role in the recovery from an MCL tear, aiming to restore knee function, strength, and mobility. At Axes Physical Therapy in Wilbur Park, MO, our approach includes:

  • Initial Assessment: Examining the injury and formulating a personalized treatment strategy.
  • Strengthening Exercises: Focusing on knee-surrounding muscles to improve stability and support.
  • Range of Motion Exercises: Gradually improving flexibility and reducing stiffness.
  • Functional Training: Targeting movements and activities pertinent 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 varies depending on the severity of the injury and the effectiveness of the treatment plan. 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
  • Steer clear of activities that might overstrain your knee early on
  • Maintain a healthy diet to support healing

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

Call Axes For Your MCL Tear Treatment in Wilbur Park, MO

If you suspect you’ve suffered an MCL tear, see Axes’ Wilbur Park, MO physical therapists for an evaluation and to commence your recovery process. At Axes Physical Therapy, we understand the challenges and frustrations that come with knee injuries. Our experienced Wilbur Park, MO physical therapists focus on delivering tailored MCL tear care that caters to your individual needs, supporting strength and mobility recovery. Don’t let an MCL tear sideline you longer than necessary. Reach out to Axes Physical Therapy in Wilbur Park, MO today and begin your journey to full recovery. Contact us online, schedule an appointment, or reach out to your nearest Axes location.

Services Offered

Services Offered
  • Physical Therapy
    • Pre/Post Surgical Rehabilitation
    • Acute Injury Management
    • Chronic Injury Management
  • Occupational Therapy
    • Certified Hand Therapy
  • Work Conditioning/Hardening
  • Functional Capacity Evaluations
  • Vestibular Therapy and Post-Concussion Rehabilitation
  • Sports Physical Therapy
  • Trigger Point Dry Needling
  • Pediatric Orthopedic Physical Therapy
  • Geriatric Orthopedic Physical Therapy
  • Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTYM)
  • Spine Specialty – Manual Therapy Certified
  • Free Injury Screenings
  • Kinesio Taping®
  • Blood Flow Restriction Therapy

Our Team

Stephen Brunjes
OTR/L, CEAS
Brian Wahlig
Front Office Supervisor
Sarah Schroeder
MOTR/L, CHT, Astym Cert
Mandy Carter
MSPT, CMPT, ATC, CWC
Ray Bauer
Clinic Director, MSPT, CMPT

Locations

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