4 TYPES OF KNEE SPRAINS

1. Medial collateral ligament (MCL)

The MCL is a support band located inside the knee. The ligament itself extends from the
medial bottom of the femur to the medial top of the tibia. The injury occurs when stress or
force is applied to the outside of the knee while the knee is still flexed or rotated.

CAUSES: The causes of MCL are Sudden, violent twists, and "cuts" can cause MCL
tears. A direct blow to the outside of the knee can also tear the cruciate ligament. MCL tears are
most common in people who play certain sports such as skiing, soccer, basketball, and
volleyball.

2. ACL or Anterior Cruciate Ligament An ACL injury or tear is a painful condition in which the
anterior cruciate ligament of the knee is damaged in sports or in a car or vehicular accident.

CAUSES: The anterior cruciate ligament can be injured in several ways:

 Changing direction rapidly
 Stopping suddenly
 Slowing down while running
 Landing from a jump incorrectly

3. Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)

The PCL band sits behind the knee and helps connect the femur to the tibia. PCL sprains are
rare and often occur in association with additional knee injuries such as bone strains and
cartilage and ligamentous injuries.

CAUSES: The main cause of PCL injury is severe trauma to the knee joint. Often, other
ligaments in the knee are affected as well. One cause specific to PCL injury is
hyperextension of the knee. This can occur during athletic movements like jumping.

4. A lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injury is usually caused by pressure or an injury that
pushes the knee joint from the inside, which results in stress on the outside part of the joint.
 CAUSES:

 Direct contact to the inner knee

 Twisting the knee
 Repetitive actions over time

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