Treatment of Collateral Ligament Sprains
Will you need surgery to treat a sprained collateral ligament?
Does a sprained collateral ligament always require surgery?
No. In fact, very few low-grade sprains will require surgical treatment.
More significant sprains (and sometimes even complete tears) may be treated with physiotherapy. A course of physiotherapy may last several weeks and will help to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint to compensate for the damaged ligament and help support the joint.
Full tears, however, may require surgery and this is particularly the case with lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injuries. Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries are less likely to require surgery.
Self-care for a collateral ligament sprain
After injury, use the POLICE method of self-treatment. This is a development of the traditional RICE technique and involves:
- Protection: Rest initially and support the injured knee to avoid further damage. A knee brace may be effective in helping to limit sideways movement.
- Optimum loading: Gradually start to move, increasing your range of movement if your knee allows it. Only do what feels right.
- Ice: Use a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel. Apply every 20 minutes for 2-3 days after injury.
- Compression: Use a bandage to reduce swelling. Be careful not to overtighten.
- Elevate: Raise the knee above the level of your heart to reduce swelling. You could, for example, lie on the sofa and place your leg on a cushion.
In addition, you should avoid heat, alcohol, running and massage (HARM) in the days after injury.
Collateral ligament sprains – when to seek advice
With self-care of simple sprains, you’ll usually be able to walk pain-free within two weeks. As your knee gains strength you should be able to return to a full range of activities including sport.
If, however, self-care doesn’t improve your symptoms, book an appointment at our Gloucestershire knee surgery.
If you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Increased pain or swelling
- Loss of feeling in your foot
- A cold sensation in your foot
- Your foot changes colour
Seek urgent medical attention.
Knee consultancy in Cheltenham, Gloucester and the Cotswolds
If you suspect you may have damaged your knee, book your appointment with Alex Dodds, knee consultant for Gloucestershire, now.
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Appointments
To make an appointment please either fill in the contact form and you will be called back by our secretary to arrange a convenient appointment time or get in touch directly.
Call Chrissie Holmyard 01242 246549 at Nuffield Health, Cheltenham.
