Definition:

An injury to the LCL of the knee when the joint is carried through a range of motion greater than normal, but without dislocation or fracture; or an injury resulting from tensile force to the Lateral collateral ligament of the knee.

Symptoms:

• Knee swelling
• Locking or catching of the knee with movement
• Pain or tenderness along the outside of the knee
• Knee gives way
• Knee pain

Causes:

• Direct blow to the inside of the knee
• Quick stopping while running
• Repetitive stress to lateral knee

Treatment:

• ROM and stretching
• Knee stabilization exercises
• Lower extremity strengthening exercises
• Gait program