When is physiotherapy recommended for MCL injury?

The medial collateral ligament runs along the inner side of the knee and helps resist the knee moving inward. An injury may cause tenderness, swelling, reduced bending or straightening, and a feeling of looseness. A clinician assesses the knee before choosing exercises. Mild injuries may begin with gentle range-of-motion work and gradual strengthening. More significant injuries may need a brace, protected weight-bearing, and a staged rehabilitation plan. Physiotherapy does not replace assessment when the knee is unstable or another structure may also be injured.

Early sessions may focus on comfortable knee movement, swelling management, and activating the thigh muscles without provoking sharp pain. Later work can include controlled squats, step exercises, balance practice, and tasks that match work or sport. Your therapist can adjust the load according to walking quality, knee control and symptoms afterward. Follow the prescribed home programme, use support as advised, and avoid twisting or contact activity until you have been assessed for readiness.

Arrange prompt assessment if you cannot bear weight, the knee gives way repeatedly, swelling appears quickly after injury, or you cannot fully move the joint. Seek urgent care for a cold or pale foot, new numbness, severe worsening pain, or an obvious deformity. A physiotherapist or doctor can also reassess symptoms that are not steadily improving.

Ask which ligament grade is suspected, whether a brace or walking aid is needed, which movements to avoid, and what signs show that strengthening can progress. Ask how return to driving, work, running or sport will be tested.