What to expect from physiotherapy for MCL injury

The medial collateral ligament supports the inner side of the knee. Your physiotherapist may check swelling, tenderness, knee movement, walking pattern and the strength of the thigh and hip muscles. The plan depends on the injury and on whether other knee structures are involved.

Early sessions may focus on comfortable movement, reducing stiffness and maintaining strength without stressing the healing ligament. Later work can include balance, controlled changes of direction and tasks that match your work, exercise or sport.

Follow the home programme at the agreed frequency and use discomfort as a guide rather than forcing a movement. Keep appointments informed about swelling, giving-way, locking or a change in walking. Progression is based on control and tolerance, not on a calendar alone.

Ask how to modify stairs, driving, work duties or sport while the knee recovers. Wear any brace or use walking support as instructed, and do not add running, pivoting or contact drills until your clinician says the knee is ready.

Seek prompt medical assessment if the knee becomes suddenly much more swollen, cannot bear weight, repeatedly gives way, becomes locked, or develops marked redness, warmth or fever. New calf swelling or pain, chest pain or breathlessness needs urgent attention.

Ask which movements should be limited, what signs show that exercise can progress, whether a brace is appropriate, and when walking, driving or sport can be reviewed.