Sprains and Strain of the Tibiofemoral Ligament

Definition:
An injury to the tibiofemoral ligament 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.
Symptoms:
  • Pain in the knee
  • Knee instability
  • Swelling in the knee
  • Point tender on the tibiofemoral ligament
  • Loss of ROM in the knee
Causes:
  • Direct blow to the knee
  • Fall
  • Repetitive knee movements
Treatment:
  • ROM and stretching
  • Soft tissue massage
  • Knee stabilization exercises
  • Lower extremity strengthening
  • Gait program