How a Chiropractor Can Treat MCL Sprains

During the course of our lifetime, our bodies can sustain many different injuries. Many of these will affect the musculoskeletal system, which is the system of bones, muscles, and connective tissues that give our body shape and movement. One injury that is often seen in people who regularly participate in physical activity/sport is an MCL sprain. Here’s what you need to know about MCL sprains and how your chiropractor can help.

What Is An MCL Sprain?

MCL stands for Medial Collateral Ligament – a band of tissue found on the inside of your knee. The MCL connects your thighbone to the bone of your lower leg, keeping your knee stable and preventing it from bending inwards. Unfortunately, if your MCL is damaged, your knee could over-extend or bend too far in a direction that it’s supposed to. This can cause a strain or microtears to appear in the ligament itself, which can result in a range of unpleasant symptoms.

MCL Sprain Symptoms

If you have suffered from an MCL sprain or tear, there are a number of different symptoms that you can experience. These could include:
 

• Pain along the inside edge of the knee
   

• Swelling in and around the knee
   

• You may hear a pop at the time of the injury
   

• Your knee may feel unstable and may fall to the side
   

• It may be too hard to put pressure or weight on the knee, which could prevent you from standing or walking
   

• If you can walk, your knee may wobble and feel unstable
   

• In some instances, the joint becomes very stiff, and it is difficult to move your knee

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak to a chiropractor as soon as possible so that you can be properly assessed by a professional.

Can a Chiropractor Help With MCL Sprains?

Chiropractors are professionals that are specifically trained to diagnose, treat and manage injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. This makes them the ideal therapists to attend to MCL sprains.

Most MCL sprains can be treated very effectively with chiropractic care. Your treatment is likely to include a variety of different therapies within your personalized treatment program, which will almost certainly include the use of warm/cold compresses and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and stiffness. You’ll also be advised on when you should rest and elevate your knee.

Your chiropractor will help you to perform a series of exercises that will help you to regain normal knee movement. These could include the use of a stationary bike, gentle stretches and chiropractic manipulations to reduce any areas of pressure within the joint and to boost circulation, sending blood and nutrients to the MCL to enable it to heal more quickly.

Exactly how long your treatment plan will take will depend on the severity of your injury and how well your body responds to the treatment, but in most cases, it takes anywhere from four to six weeks for an MCL sprain to heal.

If you would like more information about MCL sprains and how they can be treated with chiropractic care, visit USA Sports Medicine in Sherman Oaks, CA. Call (818) 862-4500 to schedule an appointment today.