Ligaments are strong and tough bands that connect bones. One of these ligaments is Lateral Collateral Ligament or LCL that runs along the outer side of the knee. LCL sprain is an injury to the LCL commonly caused by a blow to the inside of the knee, resulting in pain, swelling, and instability in the affected area. If left untreated, it may lead to permanent damage. As such, if you or someone you know suffers from LCL sprain, it is essential to know the best ways to treat it. In this blog post, we outline the most effective ways to manage LCL sprain and promote healing.
Rest and Ice
When an injury occurs, the body automatically sends more blood to the affected area in an attempt to heal the tissue. Unfortunately, this increased blood flow can cause further swelling and inflammation. To reduce these symptoms and accelerate healing, it’s crucial to rest the affected area. You should avoid strenuous activities that exacerbate your LCL sprain for a few days. Applying ice to the affected area for periods of 15-20 minutes at a time can also help reduce swelling and pain.
Knee Bracing
Knee braces can help reduce the load on the affected area, promoting healing. When used properly, a knee brace provides support and stability to the knee by helping to reduce stress on the LCL. There are various types of braces available in the market, such as functional knee braces and prophylactic knee braces. But it’s important to consult a specialist to select the type that best suits your specific condition and goals.
Physiotherapy
In cases where LCL sprain is severe or requires surgery, the best treatment option may be physiotherapy. Physiotherapists can develop a personalized treatment plan for you, including targeted stretches and exercises that can help to increase range of motion, reduce pain, and promote healing. You may also learn techniques for modifying daily activities to reduce the impact on the affected area, such as modifying your gait or sitting posture.
Chiropractic Intervention
Chiropractic intervention focuses on the alignment and function of the musculoskeletal system. After an LCL sprain, chiropractic care may help to address any imbalances and improve function and alignment. This can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and speed up healing. Chiropractors may use a range of techniques, such as spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, or ultrasound therapy, depending on the specific needs of the patient.
Surgery
In severe cases of LCL sprain, surgery may be necessary to reattach or reconstruct the damaged ligament. This is usually a last resort, recommended when other treatment modalities have not provided relief. The surgery may involve grafting healthy ligament tissue from another part of your body or using a donor tissue. After surgery, you will need to follow a strict rehabilitation program to ensure a proper recovery.
LCL sprain is a common injury, and if left untreated, it can lead to permanent damage. While there are many ways to treat LCL sprain, the best course of action will ultimately depend on the severity of the injury. It’s important to seek the advice of a specialist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include rest and ice, knee bracing, physiotherapy, chiropractic intervention, or surgery. Regardless of the treatment plan, it’s crucial to be patient and committed to the recovery process to ensure a full recovery and prevent further damage.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
