Knee ligament tears are a common injury, especially for athletes and active individuals.

These tears can significantly affect mobility and daily activities, making it essential to understand the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available.

By knowing more about knee ligament tears, you can make informed decisions about managing the injury and preventing recurrence.

A ligament tear refers to the injury of the fibrous tissues connecting bones in a joint. In the knee, these ligaments stabilise the joint and control movement.

A tear occurs when excessive force is applied to the knee, stretching the ligament beyond its capacity, and resulting in partial or complete rupture.

Types of Ligament Tears at Knee

The knee has four primary ligaments, each susceptible to injury:

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL): One of the most frequently injured ligaments, especially in sports involving sudden stops and changes in direction.
• Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL): Less commonly injured, PCL tears usually result from direct impact, like a car accident or a severe fall.
• Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL): The MCL stabilises the knee along its inner side, and injuries often result from a blow to the outer knee.
• Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL): The LCL, located on the outer side of the knee, is less prone to tears but can be injured due to sudden force.

Symptoms of a knee ligament tear may vary but typically include:

• Severe pain, particularly when bearing weight on the affected leg
• Swelling and tenderness around the knee joint
• Instability or a “buckling” sensation in the knee
• Limited range of motion or difficulty moving the knee
• Bruising around the knee

Knee ligament tears often occur from sudden or extreme movement, including:

• Quick pivots or changes in direction
• High-impact landings or falls
• Direct blows to the knee, common in contact sports
• Overextension or twisting of the knee joint

If you suspect a knee ligament tear, follow these initial steps:

• Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured leg.
• Ice: Apply ice to reduce swelling and pain.
• Compression: Wrap the knee with an elastic bandage to limit swelling.
• Elevation: Keep the leg elevated to reduce fluid buildup

Know When to See a Professional

Seek medical attention if you experience severe pain, swelling, instability, or an inability to bear weight on the knee.

Early intervention can help prevent further damage and guide you toward the best treatment options.

1. X-rays
   X-rays help identify fractures but can’t reveal ligament damage directly. However, they’re often the first step in evaluating knee injuries.
2. CT Scans
   A CT scan provides detailed images of the knee’s structure, which may reveal injuries or abnormalities not visible on an X-ray.
3. MRI
   An MRI is particularly effective for diagnosing ligament tears, as it provides detailed images of soft tissue, including ligaments and cartilage.
4. Arthroscopy
   Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a camera is inserted into the knee, allowing the doctor to view and treat any damage directly.
5. Knee Ligament Tests
   Physical tests, such as the Lachman test, pivot shift test, or drawer test, help determine the stability of knee ligaments and confirm the injury.