What should you know about PCL and MCL injury?

The posterior cruciate ligament helps control backward movement of the shinbone, while the medial collateral ligament supports the inner side of the knee. A force such as a sports collision, fall or awkward landing can strain one or both. A clinician checks tenderness, movement and stability, and may use imaging to understand the injury and look for associated damage.

Symptoms can include deep knee pain, soreness along the inner joint line, swelling, difficulty bending or straightening, and trouble walking or turning. A combined injury can make the knee feel less dependable because more than one stabilising structure is affected.

Until assessment, protect the knee from twisting and impact, use comfortable supported walking, and follow personalised advice about cold therapy and elevation. Do not return to running, jumping or contact play while the knee remains painful or unstable.

Treatment depends on examination findings. A hinged support may protect the inner knee during healing; see Knee Bracing for more information. Physiotherapy can restore movement, strength and balance through staged exercises. A Return-to-Sport Programme can help test control and function before sport resumes.

Arrange prompt medical assessment after a significant knee injury, especially when swelling appears quickly, the knee gives way, or walking is difficult. Seek urgent care if the leg looks deformed, the foot becomes cold or numb, pain is severe, or you cannot move the knee after the injury.

Ask which ligament is injured and how severely, whether imaging is needed, what activity is safe now, whether a brace is suitable, and which movement or strength milestones should come before driving, work or sport.