Lateral Collateral Ligament Injury of the Knee
Original Editors - Wouter Claesen
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Search Strategy[edit | edit source]
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Definition/Description[edit | edit source]
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Clinically Relevant Anatomy[edit | edit source]
The lateral collateral ligament is a strong connection between the femur and the head of the fibula, with the function to prevent the outer surface of the knee joint from opening or gapping. An injury to this specific ligament mostly occurs due to a direct impact to the inner surface of the knee. It is less common than an injury to the medial collateral ligament. The LCL is not connected with the lateral meniscus, so it is not automatically associated with a meniscal tear. However, the anterior cruciate or posterior cruciate ligaments may also become damaged. In this article you will find a description of observations from the knee.
Epidemiology /Etiology[edit | edit source]
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Characteristics/Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
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Differential Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
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Diagnostic Procedures[edit | edit source]
The observation will begin with the therapist observing the knee for swelling, bruising and deformity. [1] It is not expected that there should be a significant joint effusion within a few hours unless there also is a cruciate ligament or meniscal tear. It could also be important to determine whether the patient felt or heard a pop in the knee, as this may suggest an aforementioned injury. [2] Next one should proceed with a palpation around the joint, searching for areas of tenderness, warmth, swelling, etc. In the case of a trauma at the LCL palpating over the ligament will range from mild tenderness in grade one sprains, to acute pain in more serious injuries. The peroneal nerve can also be injured. This type of injury requires surgical repair because of the complex structures which are involved. Damage is easily spotted if you see a foot drop of the patient while he is walking. [3]
To determine the gravity and laxity of the knee the therapist can carry out a varustest. The patient has to be in a relaxed position and the knee is held in 30 degrees flexion. This to loosen the posterior capsule of the knee. Grade 1 sprains doesn’t show any laxity of the knee. Only pain is occurred. There is a noticeable laxity but still a demonstrable endpoint with grade 2 injuries. To determine whether it is a grade 2 sprain or 3, you can take the test in extension. When the patient has a severe grade 3 sprain, the knee will show laxity, while a grade 2 sprain won’t. Also the grade 3 sprain will not have a demonstrable endpoint at 30 degree flexion. [4]
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Examination[edit | edit source]
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Medical Management
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Physical Therapy Management
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