The medial collateral ligament is located on the inside of the knee. It attaches the femur to the fibula and prevents the knee from bending inward. It is one of four ligaments that support and stabilize the knee.

Minnesota MCL Tear

The MCL can be torn with a direct hit from the side, in slip and fall accidents, car accidents, or truck accidents. This type of injury usually presents with localized pain, swelling, bruising, and possible instability. MCL tears are divided into three grades.

• Grade 1 MCL Tear is an incomplete tear with few symptoms. Rest, ice treatment, and anti-inflammatory medication is recommended. Recovery is about 1-2 weeks.
• Grade 2 MCL Tear is also an incomplete tear but with moderate symptoms. The pain and swelling is worse than a grade 1 MCL tear and the knee feels unstable when turning or pivoting. A hinged knee brace may be recommended for a period of time. It helps to elevate the leg whenever possible to reduce blood flow to the injury. Recovery is about 3-4 weeks.
• Grade 3 MCL Tear is a complete tear of the MCL with significant pain, swelling, and instability. A knee immobilizer is recommended for the first 10 days after injury. This is followed by a hinged knee brace. Right from the beginning the knee needs to be flexed several times a day. Complete recovery is about 3-4 months. Surgery may be recommended if the MCL tear is accompanied by an ACL tear.

MCL Tear Legal Counsel

MCL tears are difficult to value. Many insurance companies minimize this injury and believe surgery is never necessary. It is vital to have a knowledgeable personal injury attorney fighting for your rights. At TSR Injury Law, our partners have years of experience and extensive medical knowledge. At professional personal injury lawyers in Minneapolis, we will aggressively pursue your case. Call (612) TSR-TIME or submit our contact form.