Medial collateral ligament

The medial collateral ligamentStabilizer Inner knee; resists inward bending. (MCL) is a flat, broad band of connective tissue. It reinforces the inner (medialToward the midline of the body) side of the knee joint. It spans from the medial epicondyleProminent bump on distal medial side; attachment for forearm muscles (“funny bone”). of the femurThigh bone; longest and strongest bone in the body; has a large round head and prominent trochanters to the medial condyleInner rounded bump at distal end; articulates with tibia and meniscus. and shaft of the tibiaShinbone; large, weight-bearing medial bone of the lower leg.. Uniquely, the MCL is firmly attached to the medial meniscusShock absorber Cartilage on inner knee joint; cushions and stabilizes joint. and the joint capsule. This attachment forms a close anatomical and functional relationship. This makes both structures vulnerable to injury when the knee is forced inward.

Functionally, the MCL resists valgus forces. These forces push the knee medially, such as during a blow to the outside of the leg. It also helps stabilize the knee during walking, twisting, and side-to-side movements. The MCL is often injured because of its firm attachments and role in joint integrity. It is one of the most frequently injured ligaments in the knee, especially in contact sports. MCL sprains or tears are often managed with rest and physical therapy, although severe injuries may require surgical repair.